A sub Stupa of the historic Sithulpawwa main stupa Magul maha seya has been damaged and raided by treasure hunters reports said. The hunters have damaged the stupa and removed the treasures, however, while their attempt they were caught by the team of Army personnel.
They have handed one of five suspects in connection with the attempted damage. In addition a jeep driver also has been arrested while another four suspects have been fled away. It has been revealed that the master mind of this robbery was a well known business figure in Debarawewa of Hambantota.
Archaeology Department Director-General Prof.
Anura Manathunga has confirmed that a small sacred stupa has been broken during the process, and several artefacts have been stolen. Prof. Manathunga is expected to personally visit and inspect the site later today (01).