Nuwara Eliya man arrested over pony assault

Nuwara Eliya Police have arrested a twenty-six-year-old man in connection with the brutal assault of a pony used for local and foreign tourists near Gregory Lake, following widespread outrage triggered by footage of the incident on social media.

The suspect, identified as Ramamoorthy Vishnu, a resident of the Strabath area in Nuwara Eliya, was taken into custody after police launched a special investigation into the viral video.

Visiting tourists at Gregory Lake have urged authorities to take immediate action to ensure animals involved in the tourism sector are protected from harm. Licensed pony operators offering services in the area have also strongly condemned the assault, stating that it is unfair for the cruel actions of one individual to tarnish the reputation of their entire profession.

The operators are calling on the relevant authorities to introduce clear standard regulations for all licensed owners, focusing on animal health, feeding routines, rest periods, and overall working conditions.