Buddhist monk from Jarrow assaulted in park says he bears ‘no anger’

Karucha Sripramote, who has lived in Hebburn for more than six years, says he was punched and kicked by masked children while walking through Hebburn Riverside Park on Tuesday, August 18.

He said he had been repeatedly harassed by a boy on an electric bike before the assault, blocking his path and flicking dirt on him with the bike wheel.

It was reported that he suffered a cut to his mouth and damage to his glasses, but now says his injuries have almost fully healed.

Mr Sripramote, who is known as Monk Kom, said the attack would not change his view of the community.

Writing on social media, Sripramote says he holds “no anger” towards the children involved.

He said: “I know first-hand how kind, welcoming, and peaceful this town is.

“This single incident does not change how much I value and appreciate living here.

“As a Buddhist monk, I contemplate life through understanding, patience, and the principle of cause and effect.

“I hold no anger, resentment, or bitterness towards the young lads.

“While their actions crossed a line, panic and poor judgement often lead young people to react recklessly.”

Sripramote, who teaches Buddhism and meditation at the Dhammakaya Meditation Centre in the former Church of St Andrew, now says he was “deeply touched by the outpouring of support” from the community.

He said: “My only hope is that these young lads take a moment to reflect on the kind of community they wish to grow up in.”

Northumbria Police said they had logged the report on their records to assist with future patrols, though there was no direct CCTV coverage at that specific spot.

The Northern Echo has contacted Northumbria Police for comment.