Sri Lanka’s Maha Nayaka Theras, in a joint statement, have strongly condemned the alleged misuse of Buddhist robes in connection with a major narcotics smuggling case involving 22 monks arrested at Bandaranaike International Airport.

The statement comes after authorities seized narcotics worth more than Rs. 1.1 billion and arrested 22 Buddhist monks during a raid at the airport.

The Maha Nayaka Theras denounced what they described as anti-Sasana and unlawful acts carried out by individuals accused of transporting drugs while dressed in monastic robes.

They said steps would be taken to investigate all persons posing as monks who are engaged in illegal activities and to remove them from the Buddhist order following due inquiries.

They also urged security authorities to carry out swift investigations into those allegedly influencing or recruiting young monks into unlawful activities, and to take strict legal action against all responsible parties.

The suspects are due to be produced before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court for further proceedings. (NewsWire)

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