The Mahanayaka Theros (Chief Prelates) of Sri Lanka’s three main Buddhist Nikayas — Siyam, Amarapura and Ramanna — have issued a joint statement strongly condemning the alleged misuse of the saffron robe in connection with the Rs. 1.1 billion narcotics bust at Bandaranaike International Airport involving 22 individuals dressed as monks.
In language that described the alleged conduct as “anti-Sasana and unlawful,” the Chief Prelates denounced the actions of those accused of transporting drugs while wearing monastic robes. The statement was issued on Sunday afternoon, with Ada Derana reporting it was released at 5:11 PM.
The Mahanayaka Theros said steps would be taken to investigate every person posing as a monk while engaged in illegal activities, and to remove them from the Buddhist order following due inquiries.
They urged security authorities to carry out swift investigations into individuals allegedly influencing or recruiting young monks into unlawful activities, and to pursue strict legal action against all parties responsible.
A joint intervention by all three Nikayas is rare and reflects the gravity with which the senior Sangha is treating the case. The Mahanayaka Theros effectively distanced the Buddhist establishment from the suspects, framing them as impersonators rather than members of the ordained community — a position consistent with police phrasing that has referred to the group as “individuals appearing to be monks.”
The 22 suspects, aged between 19 and 28, were arrested at BIA on Saturday night with more than 120 kg of Kush and hashish concealed in false-bottom suitcases. They were produced before the Negombo Magistrate, who ordered seven-day detention for further questioning. Police have separately arrested the alleged main facilitator, who is also said to be a monk, in Meegahawatta, Gampaha.
