Mahout assistant’s body found in Kandy lake

Colombo, July 31 (Daily Mirror) - The body of a young mahout assistant was discovered floating near the banks of Kandy Lake this morning (31), police confirmed.

The deceased, identified as 28-year-old Akalanka from Aranayaka, had arrived in Kandy to participate in the annual Esala Perahera, assisting with the elephant 'Menike' during the sacred procession.

Police sources said a suspicious wound was found on the forehead of the body, raising concerns of foul play. The cause of death is yet to be determined.

Kandy Police Headquarters has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident.