URGENT UPDATE: The head monk of a prominent Buddhist temple in Melbourne has been found guilty of sexually abusing children as young as four years old. Naotunne Vijitha, aged 70, faced a four-week trial and was convicted on October 23, 2023, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the community.
Prosecutors revealed that Vijitha committed his crimes against six girls aged between four and 12 inside his living quarters at the Dhamma Sarana Buddhist Temple in Springvale, as well as in a prayer room and during Sunday school sessions. The abuse began shortly after he relocated to Melbourne from overseas in 1994 and continued after the temple moved to Keysborough in 2000.
The victims, now adults, bravely testified during the trial, recounting their harrowing experiences. Their relatives and friends also provided evidence, highlighting the deep emotional scars left by Vijitha’s actions. The jury returned guilty verdicts on 17 out of 19 charges, with one charge of indecent act against a child under 16 resulting in an acquittal. The jury is still deliberating on another indecent act charge.
In his defense, barrister Nick Papas KC urged the jury to approach the historical allegations with skepticism, reminding them that the events occurred 25 to 30 years ago and questioning their reliability. He described some of the accusations as “so improbable as to stretch any grounds of credulity.”
Judge Pardeep Tiwana informed the jury that he would accept a majority verdict on the remaining charge, signaling the potential for a resolution soon. The jury will reconvene on Friday morning to continue their deliberations.
This conviction marks a significant moment in a case that has drawn attention not only for its serious nature but also for the courage shown by the victims in coming forward. The outcome of this trial will have lasting implications for the local community and the broader discourse on child protection within religious institutions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
