Police said the arrest was made while the monk was receiving treatment at the emergency unit of a private hospital in Colombo.
Earlier, the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court had issued warrants for the arrest of the Chief Prelate and the victim’s mother. Anuradhapura Chief Magistrate Siyapath Sasidu Wickramaratne also imposed a foreign travel ban on the Thero and directed immigration authorities to prevent him from leaving the country.
The investigation began following a complaint lodged with the Nittambuwa Police on March 6, 2026 regarding the alleged abduction and detention of a minor girl.
Police initially arrested a suspect in connection with the complaint, while the victim was placed under protection at a child care centre in Ragama. During subsequent investigations, the girl had reportedly disclosed details of prior sexual abuse, prompting further inquiries by the Nittambuwa Police and the Women and Children’s Bureau.
Police said three individuals have so far been arrested in connection with the case, including the victim’s mother, who was taken into custody on allegations of aiding and abetting the offence.
Further investigations are being conducted by the Nittambuwa Police under the supervision of senior officers and the National Child Protection Authority.
