A large number of journalists and Buddhist monks are gathered near the main entrance of the Welikada prison expecting the release of Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera.

The Prisons Commissioner confirmed a short while ago that he received President Maithripala Sirisena's order to release Gnanasara Thera on a special presidential pardon.

Prison sources said the Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary would be released soon.

The President signed the papers pertaining to the release of Ganansara Thera yesterday.