Tensions in Mullaitivu: locals angered by attempts to build Buddhist vihara

There was a tense situation in Mullaitivu today after locals were angered by police inaction against the attempt to build a Buddhist vihara by a group of Sinhala people, including Buddhist monks. 

The group were caught by locals and handed over to Oddusuddan police today. Despite a pledge to ensure the suspects would be produced before court, the police later released the monks. 

Locals state the Sinhala Buddhist group intended to build a vihara on Kurunthur mountain, in Kumulamunai, Thannimurippu, arriving in two vehicles with a Buddhist statue and other materials in tow. 

The group was about to make a tent and settle in the area when they were apprehended. 

The mountain only has a Hindu Siva temple, locals said, adding that there had never been a Buddhist vihara.