In a chilling development, Sri Lankan authorities are sounding alarms over a series of suicides and attempted suicides tied to the extremist teachings of a deceased religious philosopher, Ruwan Prasanna Gunaratne. The alarming situation has prompted a stern warning from police for vigilance among relatives of individuals who attended Gunaratne’s sermons, as the nation grapples with a wave of self-harm incidents.

The recent attempted suicide of a 27-year-old businessman in Polonnaruwa, who consumed poison in a manner similar to seven prior victims, marks the latest in this disturbing trend. Identified as a devout follower of Gunaratne’s teachings for nearly eight years, the young man’s actions reflect a deeper, more concerning pattern of influence. Police investigations have highlighted his addiction to Gunaratne’s extremist sermons, underscoring the dangerous grip such ideologies can hold on individuals.

The deceased Gunaratne, a 47-year-old preacher known for advocating suicide as a means to expedite rebirth, has left a trail of tragedy. His own suicide by poisoning was followed by the devastating suicides of his wife and three children, and subsequently, several followers. These incidents have been linked through the use of a specific type of poison, suggesting a coordinated or inspired series of acts. The involvement of a young couple, who were followers and lovers, in this tragic chain adds another layer to the complex and heartbreaking narrative. The couple, discovered in separate locations, had attended Gunaratne’s funeral, confirming their allegiance to his teachings.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Sri Lanka is now conducting a full-scale investigation into these deaths. The authorities are delving into the connections between the victims, all of whom are suspected to have been influenced by Gunaratne’s ideology promoting death. The investigation extends to Gunaratne’s widespread reach, as he conducted sermons across various platforms, including Facebook and social media, and in temples. Notably, Gunaratne claimed to have achieved Sovan, a significant stage in Buddhist spiritual attainment, and his teachings reportedly fixated on the theme of death. The national police force has initiated a country-wide operation to locate others who might have been exposed to these dangerous ideologies.

This series of tragic incidents serves as a stark reminder of the potent influence extremist ideologies can have on individuals, pushing them toward irreversible actions. The police’s warning is not just a call for vigilance but a desperate plea to prevent further loss of life. As the investigation continues, the nation watches, hoping for a swift end to this wave of influenced suicides and a comprehensive understanding of the dangerous teachings that fueled it.

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