Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary, Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, alleged that a large number of threatening handbills were distributed among worshippers attending the Friday Jumma sermon in Eravur, in the Eastern Province, a few weeks ago.
Addressing the media, the Thera said that the handbills called for the investigation and execution by stoning, in accordance with Sharia law, of a young man named Kasim, himself, and several others. He claimed these threats were issued in response to recent revelations concerning the spread of Islamic extremism in Sri Lanka, allegedly linked to global terrorist networks.
The Thera said he had officially informed the Defence Secretary in writing regarding the threats.
“This situation is evidence of a dangerous escalation in extremist activity and religious tensions within the country,” he remarked.
He further said that the traditional Muslim community in the area, which had suffered under extremist oppression, had reached out to him for assistance. According to Gnanasara Thera, these community members had provided him with information about extremist elements and requested that this be made public.
He also alleged that a group identifying itself as the ‘Libya Gaddafi Group’ had circulated threatening messages via WhatsApp, naming individuals they accused of opposing extremist ideologies.
Gnanasara Thera named one individual, Mohammed Farooq Mohammed Fauzul of Valiyappu Taika Road, Eravur 01, alleging his involvement in extremist activities and claiming that, despite reports made to security agencies, no action had been taken yet.
“The situation in Eravur is deeply concerning,” the Thera added, explaining that local Sufi Muslims reportedly attend mosques under tight security. He said that Kasim Kathankudi, the Secretary of the Sufi Association in Eravur, known for his opposition to extremist groups, had met him to discuss rising threats against peace-loving Muslims.
Recalling his own role since 2013 in preventing what he described as major disasters plotted by extremist groups, Gnanasara Thera claimed he continues to face significant personal danger. He emphasised that although he had repeatedly requested adequate security measures, these had not been provided.
He also alleged that some Muslim officers within intelligence units in the Eastern Province failed to convey accurate information to higher authorities, citing religious obligations as the reason.
“This Islamic extremism is not a threat to a government, but to an entire country,” the Thera warned.
“The most dangerous ideological jihadists are now influencing both the government and certain elements of the security forces. If those in power take advice from them, we are truly helpless,” he added.
Gnanasara Thera said he had previously been assigned basic security but had voluntarily returned it to the authorities. He has since written to the Victim Protection Division and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), requesting MSD (Ministerial Security Division) protection as deemed appropriate.
Authorities have not yet officially responded to the claims, and no confirmation has been made regarding any investigation into the alleged incidents.