Detention extended for a second time, for Dharumavantha Mosque imam

The detention period for the imam of Dharumavantha Mosque, arrested over leading prayers without the authorisation of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, has been extended for a second time by the Criminal Court.

Police said that the court extended the detention period for the 30-year-old imam by 15 days on Monday.

Police said earlier that the imam was arrested for violating the laws and regulations on religious solidarity, failing to obtain the authorisation for imams from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, pretending to be an imam and leading Friday prayers by forming a separate congregation at Dharumavantha Mosque, and encouraging religious strife in the society.

Despite his arrest, Friday prayer was held at Dharumavantha Mosque last Friday.