Buddhist Monk among two killed in accident

A Buddhist Monk was among two people killed in a fatal accident at Medawachchiya last evening, police stated. Seven other persons also sustained injuries. 

The incident occurred at about 6.00pm yesterday at Poonewa along the Jaffna-Kandy A9 Road. Police said a three-wheeler carrying the monk from Periyaulukkulam in Vavuniya had collided head-on with a van traveling from Medawachchiya to Vavuniya. 

Both occupants in the three-wheeler were killed in the accident. The Buddist Monk has been identified as 36-year-old Periyaulukkulame Sunanda Thera. He was the Chief Incumbent of the Parana Halmillewa Temple, police said. The driver has been identified as 37-year-old Chaminda Dharmasena. 

Seven others who were in the van also sustained injuries in the incident. Medawachchiya Police are investigating. 

Story and Pix by Romesh Madushanka  

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