A 26-year-old Nuwara Eliya resident has been arrested following a social media video showing an assault on a pony used for tourist rides near Gregory Lake. The incident has sparked concerns about animal welfare and tourism reputation.
Police in Nuwara Eliya have arrested a 26-year-old man following allegations that he assaulted a pony used for tourist rides near Gregory Lake. The arrest came after a video circulating on social media depicted the incident. The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Nuwara Eliya Magistrate's Court on August 28.
The case has drawn attention from both local and foreign visitors to the area, who have called on authorities to strengthen measures against animal cruelty. Commentators have pointed out that pony rides represent a significant draw for tourists visiting Sri Lanka's central highlands, and that instances of animal abuse could harm the country's tourism reputation.
Licensed pony operators working around Gregory Lake have distanced themselves from the incident, condemning the assault and emphasizing that they operate legally and responsibly. The operators have stressed that the actions of a single individual should not reflect negatively on their profession as a whole. They have appealed to authorities to establish and enforce comprehensive standards governing the health, nutrition, rest schedules, and working conditions of animals engaged in licensed tourist activities.
