A group of Buddhists monks has surrounded Homagama Magistrate Court, protesting against the decision to remand Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero till February 9.

Some of them tried to enter the court premises, but were prevented by the police who closed the gates to prevent unauthorized entry.

Thereafter, several monks jumped over the wall to court premises.

About 300 police officers, and the riot police and water cannon vehicles arrived at the Court premises to control the situation.

Gnanasara Thera was remanded on three charges including threatening public officials, obstructing court proceedings and contempt of court.