Buddhist Monk Led Mob Attacked Pentecostal Church

September 9, 2013 

Amid claims of rising religious tensions created by Sinhala hardliners, a group led by a Buddhist monk has allegedly attacked the “Living Water’” Pentecostal church in Meegoda during while the church service was underway.

Police are reportedly investigating the complaint although no arrests have been made so far. Details of the investigation will however be presented before the Homagama Magistrate today.

Devotees say the attackers had arrived at the church about an hour after the service had begun, assaulted worshipers and damaged property. Two people have been hospitalised after sustaining injuries during the attack. The devotees say the attackers arrived by vehicle and claim they could identify the Buddhist monk who accompanied the mob if asked.

Photo courtesy AzzamAmeen 

Video: No One Can Protect Muslims Better Than This Government – Mahinda Rajapaksa

Paying lip service to religious harmony, even as violent mobs yesterday attacked a Pentacostal church close to the capital Colombo, President Mahinda Rajapaksa told a group of Muslims at President’s House in Kandy yesterday that Muslims who value and respect the country’s ancient history, culture, sovereignty and unity could never be misled by various conspirators for petty political gains.

The President claimed that as a “good Buddhist who worships three times a day”, he respects all religions and takes every measure to protect and safeguard the rights of everyone. The President claims there was an attempt to put a wedge between the Government and the Muslim community.

The President said that under his regime, Muslim religious observances were broadcast on state radio five times a day. He declined to note that the broadcasts were paid for by Muslim organisations.

“No one can protect Muslims better than this Government,” he claimed.

To read the list of places of worship attacked in the recent past click here