The Government Analyst’s report submitted to the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court has found that a rug produced as evidence in the case against Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thera tested positive for the suspect’s semen.
However, the analysis of hair strands recovered from the rug found that they did not belong to the girl who allegedly suffered the sexual assault, but to another woman. The report also found no visible blood stains on the rug.
According to statements previously given to police by the alleged victim, the Thera had used the rug, which was kept at the foot of his bed, to wipe semen following the alleged incident.
The Government Analyst’s report was filed in court under case number B22424/2026, with a copy also submitted to the Attorney General’s Department.
The rug was recovered by police during the initial investigation after the alleged victim provided officers with details of the room. Police said she was able to identify the suspect’s quarters, including the bed and other items inside the room, as well as the rug.
A team from the Gampaha Division Women and Children’s Bureau, including OIC IP Vinicia Premaratne and IP Wasundara Gunaratne, conducted investigations at the scene with the assistance of Anuradhapura Police.
When the case was taken up, Anuradhapura Magistrate Pasindu Wickramaratne postponed further proceedings until January 8, 2027, pending advice from the Attorney General.
