’Rishi’ and helper caught trespassing in Ritigala

By Kushan Jayawardana

Two individuals who illegally entered the Kodigala Kanda area of the Ritigala Forest Reserve claiming to be a Rishi and his helper were rescued and arrested by officers of the Ritigala Wildlife Sanctuary Protection Office after becoming stranded in the forest.

According to wildlife officials, both suspects are 35 years old. The man claiming to be a Rishi is a resident of Rajanganaya in Anuradhapura and currently resides in Gampaha, while his alleged helper is a resident of Laggala in Matale.

The duo was apprehended during a search operation launched by wildlife officers following a tip-off that two individuals had entered the reserve illegally and were stranded. During questioning, the men told officers they were divine beings from the ‘world of the Nagas’ who had come to Ritigala for meditation.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the pair had entered the strict nature reserve through the archaeological ruins and climbed Kodigala Mountain, disregarding multiple warning signs erected by the Wildlife Conservation Department, clearly stating that entry into the protected zone is prohibited.

Wildlife officers recovered several items from the suspects at the time of arrest, including a lighter, a photo and video camera, several pieces of clothing, a necklace, and a small traditional drum (Udekkiya).

The Ritigala Wildlife Sanctuary Protection Office confirmed that further investigations are underway. Authorities have once again reminded the public that entering strict nature reserves without permission is a serious offense, punishable under the country’s wildlife protection laws.