An unidentified group has attempted to cut down the Sandalwood Tree which was planted by former president late J.R. Jayewardene at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya.

Former President J.R. Jayawardene planted the Sandalwood Sapling at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya in 1978. On the night of November 22, the tree had been harmed.

Director General of the Peradeniya Botanical Garden D.S.A. Wijesundara said that although the tree had not been destroyed, necessary precautions are being taken to preserve it.