November 22, 2024 6:57 am
Results: 271
Colombo Port City: What You Need To Know In A Nutshell and More
(Feature) Clinching a top priority in the not-very-short list of development projects in Sri Lanka, the Colombo Port City has, indeed, been nudging its way into the limelight. Unsurprisingly, the project has its costs and benefits as well as the arguments that come along with the venture. But how does the new project vary from the old? MORE.....
Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, who was arrested by the FCID this morning, has been released on bail after being produced at the Matara Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Lack of transparency in Chinese contracts were the concern – Harsha
Our major concern was the lack of transparency with the way infrastructure projects were originally awarded to the Chinese, Deputy Minister Foreign Affairs Harsha Desilva said in an interview. Speaking to Finance Asia he added that where we could, we were able re-negotiate and restructure the contracts to bring the overall costs down. MORE...
Fmr. Embilipitiya ASP arrested by CID
The former ASP of Embilipitiya Police, D.W.C. Dharmaratne, has been arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in connection with the recent death of a youth during a clash with police in Embilipitiya, sources told Ada Derana. MORE..
Major disaster averted as two trains almost collide head-on
Two trains narrowly avoided a head-on collision in Ginthota on the Coastal Line as the drivers of the locomotives managed prevent a possible major train disaster this afternoon. MORE..
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today arrived at the special Presidential Commission of Inquiry investigating into large scale corruption and fraud to give a statement. MORE..
Port City will be eco-friendly - CHEC
The China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) says that according to the recently released Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA) report, the Colombo Port City (CPC), upon completion of reclamation works, will incorporate solutions for integrated management of energy, water and waste for long‐term environmental sustainability... MORE.
Port City can resume tomorrow if Chinese firm agrees to leasehold - Ravi
Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake says that the Sri Lankan government is prepared give the go-ahead for the Colombo Port City project to resume even tomorrow, if the Chinese company agrees to begin the US$1.4 billion project on a 99-year lease. MORE.
Nissanka Senadhipathi arrives at CID
The Chairman of Avant-Garde Security Services, Major (rtd) Nissanka Senadhipathi has arrived at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) a short while ago to give a statement, Police told Ada Derana. MORE..
Nalaka Godahewa postpones FCID visit
Former Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), Dr Nalaka Godahewa, has requested the Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) for a different date to record a statement as he is unable to appear today. MORE..
FCID summons ex-SEC chairman Nalaka Godahewa
The former Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), Dr Nalaka Godahewa, has been summoned to appear before the Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID). MORE..
Two arrested over financial irregularity at SEC
Two individuals including a former top SEC official have been arrested over an alleged financial irregularity at the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) in 2013, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
Siyam’s father says Vass Gunawardena didn’t kill his son
In a surprising twist, the father of slain businessman Mohamed Siyam says that his son was not murdered by former DIG of Police Vass Gunawardena, who was sentenced to death after being found guilty over the killing. MORE..
Ex-President arrives at PRECIFAC
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived at the Special Presidential Commission to probe large scale corruption to give a statement a short while ago. MORE..
NASA chief: Time to clean up all that space junk
NASA Administrator Charles Bolden warns that too little is being done to remove debris from space, an issue that has drawn plenty of attention this week after an unknown object made a fiery entry into Earth’s atmosphere. MORE...
CID extends detention order on Pillayan till Dec 10
The Colombo Chief Magistrate today permitted the CID to detain and question former Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan, who was arrested in connection with the murder of ex-MP Joseph Pararajasingham, till December 10 under detention orders. MORE..
Actress and former MP Upeksha Swarnamali arrived at the Presidential Commission of Inquiry to Investigate and Inquire into Serious Acts of Fraud, Corruption and Abuse of Power, State Resources and Privileges (PRECIFAC), a short while ago on Thursday (29) morning. MORE...
UNP Provincial Councilor Tissa Bandara arrested
UNP Central Provincial Councilor Tissa Bandara has been arrested for allegedly assaulting an individual at the Dambulla Economic Centre, the police say. MORE...
CID wants to question Geetha on dual citizenship allegations
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has sought the approval of the Speaker to question MP Geetha Kumarasinghe about allegations that she is a dual citizen of Sri Lanka and a European country. MORE...
Court adds top army officials’ names as respondents in Eknaligoda case
The Court of Appeal has included the names of Army Commander and Army Intelligence Chief as respondents in connection with the disappearance case of journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda, Ada Derana reporter says. MORE...
FCID probes ex-security forces’ chiefs who held diplomatic posts
The Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) has commenced investigations regarding five former diplomats, including four ex-security forces commanders, for allegedly engaging in political activities while attached to Sri Lankan missions abroad. MORE..
CID gets detention order to question Pillayan
The Colombo Chief Magistrate today (14) allowed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to detain former Chief Minister of the Eastern Province Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan for questioning till November 04. MORE...
Third India-Sri Lanka joint training exercise culminates
The third Indo-Lanka Joint Training Exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ focusing on counter- terrorism and insurgency operations culminated in India. MORE...
CID detains Pillayan for further questioning
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is interrogating former Chief Minister of the Eastern Province Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan under a detention order, the police say. MORE...
ICC Probes Sri Lanka Official Over Match Fixing
The International Cricket Council has launched a probe into a top Sri Lankan official suspected of involvement in match-fixing, the sport’s local governing body said today. MORE...
The former Chief Minister of the Eastern Province Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan has been summoned to appear at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to give a statement in connection with a murder incident. MORE..
Sampath Athukorala released on bail
Southern Provincial Councilor Sampath Athukorala, who was in custody for allegedly uploading obscene posts on President Maithripala Sirisena on the internet, was released on bail by the Colombo Chief Magistrate today. MORE...
Seya murder: Police arrest another suspect
Another suspect has been arrested over the murder of Seya Sadewmi, the 5-year-old recently found strangled to death in Karandeniya, police said. MORE..
Sampath Athukorala remanded over obscene FB post
The Colombo Chief Magistrate today ordered Southern Provincial Council member Sampath Athukorala to be remanded till October 05, for allegedly uploading defamatory posts on President Maithripala Sirisena on the internet. MORE..
India, Sri Lanka to hold third joint army exercise
The Indian and Sri Lankan armies will be conducting their third joint military exercise Mitra Shakti-2015, starting September 29, said a statement issued in New Delhi today, according to the NDTV news agency. MORE...
Resolution on Sri Lanka tabled at UN Human Rights Council
A resolution calling for a “credible justice process” with “Commonwealth and other foreign judges” in order to prosecute for mass atrocities committed during the final stages of the island’s armed conflict has been tabled at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. MORE...
Three more politicians from the UNP, UPFA and JVP sworn-in as Parliamentarians before the Speaker this morning (22). MORE...
Four more Provincial Councilors sworn-in
Filling the seats left vacant after the August general election, four more UPFA members of the Uva and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils took oath as Councilors this morning (21). MORE...
TULF recommends both domestic and hybrid special courts
Secretary General of the Tamil United Liberation Front, V. Anandasangaree, says that his party recommends probing of war crimes by both Domestic and Hybrid special courts in parts. MORE...
China seeks to rebuild Silk Road trade links
China is increasingly engaging other countries for its ‘One Belt, One Road’ initiative to rebuild the historic Silk Road which begins in Fuzhou, China and goes via Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and East Africa to build trade links with Europe, Asia and Africa. MORE...
Democratic Party founder and former SLA Commander Sarath Fonseka, offered himself to face a domestic court of law on allegations against military operations during the Eelam War. MORE...
Police interrogate 2 suspects over Kotadeniyawa murder
A 17-year-old youth and another person are being questioned in connection with the recent murder of the 5-year-old girl in Kotadeniyawa, police said. MORE..
Govt at risk of claims by Chinese port city project - document
Sri Lanka would be exposed to the risk of claims from the firm managing a suspended Chinese-backed real estate project if the government fails to obtain approvals needed by the project within 60 days, a government document showed on Thursday. MORE..
NZ welcomes reconciliation moves in Sri Lanka
New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully has welcomed the Sri Lankan Government’s announcement it will establish a Truth & Reconciliation Commission to help the country recover from its decades-long civil war. MORE...
CID takes over probe into Kotadeniyawa toddler’s murder
Investigations into the recent murder of a 5-year-old girl in Kotadeniyawa have been handed over to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) with immediate effect, police said. MORE..
Tamils reject govt’s wartime truth commission, demand international inquiry?
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Sri Lanka’s minority Tamils has rejected government plans for a truth commission to promote reconciliation after decades of ethnic war, insisting on an international inquiry, the AFP news agency reported. MORE...
New constitution, amendments to penal code; steps to create a new Sri Lanka: Mangala
“The best guarantee for non-recurrence is of course a political settlement that addresses the grievances of the Tamil people. We hope that we can achieve this through the adoption of a new Constitution,” Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said. MORE...
Gotabaya, Namal arrive at FCID
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Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa and MP Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Financial Crime Investigation Division (FCID) to give a statement a short while ago on Monday (14) morning. MORE...
Ex-Principal gets 15 years RI for murdering mistress
A former school principal who was found guilty of shooting and killing his mistress in Habarana has been sentenced to 15 years rigorous imprisonment by the Anuradhapura High Court. MORE..
Ariyaratne, Radhika, Aziz nominated to CC
Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne, Dr. Radhika Coomaraswamy and Shibly Aziz nominated as Civil Society representatives to the Constitutional Council. MORE...
AG claims witness intimidation in Thajudeen case
The Attorney General today informed the Colombo Fort Magistrate regarding the alleged intimidation of witnesses in the murder case of former Sri Lankan Rugby player Wasim Thajudeen. MORE..
Acid attack on Ayurvedic Commissioner: Court summons accused
Three accused, who were indicted following the acid attack on the former Ayurvedic Commissioner of the North Central Province, have been summoned to appear in the Anuradhapura High Court on November 11. MORE...
Tax on imported sugar, potatoes revised
The special commodity levy imposed on imported sugar has been increased by Rs 12 per kilogram while the levy on potatoes has been increased by Rs 10 per kilogram, the Finance Ministry said. MORE..
President, PM appoint their nominees to the CC
The Prime Minister and the President on Wednesday (09) appointed their nominees to the Constitutional Council. Accordingly, Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and Wijedasa Rajapakse have been appointed to the CC respectively. MORE...
No decision to dissolve Bribery Commission: PMU
A decision has not been taken to dissolve the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, the President’s Media Unit says. MORE...
Two in hospital after acid attack
A woman traveling in a car and the driver of the vehicle have been hospitalised following an acid attack on the Panamura road in Embilipitiya. MORE..
Sri Lanka civil society cries foul over journalist missing case
Attempts are being made to suppress an investigation in the missing of a prominent journalist in Sri Lanka ahead of the 2010 presidential polls while he was working for former Army chief Sarath Fonseka, civil society activists have claimed, the Press Trust of India reported. MORE...
Dr. Thenuwara appointed new President of FUTA
Dr. Chandragupta Thenuwara, of University of Peradeniya has been appointed as the new President of the Federation of University Teachers’ Associations (FUTA). MORE...
Eknaligoda disappearance: 4 army personnel held under detention orders
Approval has been granted for the detention and questioning of the four army personnel, arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda, under detention orders, military spokesman Brigadier Jayanath Jayaweera said. MORE..
Eknaligoda case: CID questions four more army personnel
(UPDATE) The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is interrogating an Army Corporal, a Sergeant, and two Lieutenants, in connection with the mysterious disappearance of journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda, a police source said. MORE...
President’s Coordinating Secretary appointed as Municipal Councillor
President’s Coordinating Secretary, Attorney at Law Rajika kodithuwakku sworn in as a member of Municipal Council, Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, before President Maithripala Sirisena today (Aug. 22). MORE...
Australia will continue to support Sri Lanka - Bishop
Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop today congratulated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on his re-election, following the “peaceful and orderly” parliamentary elections on 17 August 2015. MORE..
The Leader of the National Freedom Front (NFF) and former Minister Wimal Weerawansa arrived at the Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) to give a statement today. MORE..
Shashi Weerawansa arrives at FCID
Shashi Weerawansa, wife of former Minister Wimal Weerawansa, today arrived at the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) to give a statement. MORE..
Sarath Kumara’s bail plea turned down for 7th time
The Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court today rejected for the seventh time the bail plea put forward by the House Leader of the North Central Provincial Council, Ananda Sarath Kumara. MORE..
Sri Lanka softens stance on China-backed port project
Sri Lanka is offering a compromise that could allow a major Chinese-backed real estate project to restart after months of delays, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake told Reuters on Monday. MORE...
Body of Wasim Thajudeen exhumed
The body of Wasim Thajudeen, has been exhumed a short while ago at Dehiwala, Police said. The remains have been placed under the custody of the Judicial Medical Officer. MORE...
President Sirisena revamps his security ahead of polls
Maithripala Sirisena has disbanded a part of the Presidential Security Division, and replaced the elite Sri Lankan unit with a highly-trained team of commandos, it was reported. MORE...
Gym instructor arrested over Bloemendhal shooting
Police today arrested a suspect in connection with last week’s tragic shooting incident at Bloemendhal Road in Colombo, which claimed the life of two persons and wounded a dozen more. MORE..
Student commits suicide over A/L admission, principal suspended
The principal of a school in the Pandarikulam area in Vavuniya has been suspended after female student of the school committed suicide due to not receiving an admission form to sit for the G.C.E. Advanced Level examination. MORE..
Ex-PC member and UC chairman arrested
Former Eastern Provincial Council member Kalanthar Lebbe Mohamed Fareed and the former Chairman of the Kattankudy Urban Council Sahul Hameed Mohamed Asfer have been arrested by police. MORE..
Wasim Thajudeen’s body to be exhumed on Aug 10
The Colombo Additional Magistrate today ordered the Judicial Medical Officer (JMO) of Colombo to exhume the remains of former Sri Lankan Rugby player Wasim Thajudeen, who had died under suspicious circumstances. MORE..
Decision on exhuming Thajudeen’s body expected tomorrow
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court is due to announce its decision Thursday (6) on the request made by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to exhume the body of former Sri Lankan Rugby player Wasim Thajudeen. MORE..
Australian Federal Police accused of supporting CID
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has been providing equipment and assistance to Sri Lanka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which has been accused of kidnapping and torture, Australian media reported. MORE...
UPDATE: One dead, 4 injured after van runs over Duminda’s supporters
One person died while another 4 were wounded, 2 critically, when a van driven by a police officer ran over a group of political party supporters in Rambewa, Anuradhapura. MORE..
Railway unions to stage strike from midnight today
Train services around the country would likely come to a standstill from midnight today following a strike called by the Joint Trade Union Alliance (JTUA) of Railway Employees. MORE...
Court wants JMO’s full report on Wasim Thajudeen
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday (28) ordered to produce a detailed report with respect to the post-mortem examination carried out on former national rugby player Wasim Thajudeen. MORE...
Ranil wants all to live as kings and no ‘royal family’
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that he wants to make every citizen of the country live like kings and not just establish a ‘royal family’. MORE..
JMOs reveal new twists in Thajudeen’s case
The mysterious death of former national rugby player Wasim Thajudeen is not an accidental one, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court citing a report submitted by the Judicial Medical Officers (JMOs) today (27). MORE...
Bharatha’s murder accused remanded for violating bail conditions
Chaminda Rav Jayanath, an accused who violated bail conditions in the murder of former President’s Advisor Bharatha Lakshman Premachandra, was remanded by the Colombo High Court today (27). MORE...
No pressure from India on Port City project - govt
The Sri Lankan government has denied reports that the Indian government is exerting pressure on it to stall the $1.4 billion Colombo Port City Project. MORE..
Three dead, 10 injured after small lorry topples
Three persons were killed while another 10 individuals were wounded after a small lorry veered off the road and toppled near the Kalaru Bridge in Silawatura, Mannar. MORE..
Students among 29 injured after bus topples
At least 29 passengers including several school children were wounded after a bus toppled in the Dulpitiya area on the Hemmathagama-Dikpitiya road this morning. MORE..
Prasanna Ranatunga, wife arrives at FCID
Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunga and his wife arrived at the FCID a short while ago to give a statement over an alleged financial malpractice connected to a land deal. MORE...
India wanted Sri Lanka to stop Colombo Port City – Gotabaya
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa says that India’s National Security Advisor had requested the former Sri Lankan government to stop the Chinese-funded Colombo Port City project as it would pose a threat to that country’s security. MORE..
FCID cannot summon UPFA candidates before polls – Susil
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) today briefed the Election Commissioner regarding the various problems allegedly faced by the party, such as the lack of security ex-MPs and the summoning of candidates before the FCID, ahead of the General Election. MORE..
Court grants bail to Prasanna and wife
The Fort Magistrate on Tuesday (14) granted bail to the Chief Minister of the Western Province, Prasanna Ranatunga, and his wife in connection with a case filed against them over an irregular land deal. MORE...
China and Sri Lanka conclude joint Army exercise
Sri Lanka and China on Monday (13) concluded a joint army exercise at the Special Forces (SF) Training School at Maduruoya. MORE...
Court summons Prasanna Ranatunga
The Chief Minister of the Western Province Prasanna Ranatunga has been summoned to appear before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court on July 14, in connection with a case filed against him, police said. MORE..
Army officer involved in fatal road accident suspended
Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army has suspended, with immediate effect and without pay, the service of the Army officer involved in the fatal road accident at Gurubabila in the Weligama area, which claimed the lives of three persons. MORE..
Govt rebuts ex-President’s allegations on ethanol licences
The Ministry of Finance today rejected the allegation made by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa that the government in 100 days has issued 28 ethanol licences. MORE..
Liquor shops closed only on July 10 - Excise Dept.
All liquor shops in the country will be closed only on July 10 in view of the Temperance Month, the Excise Department announced. MORE..
Provincial Councillor arrested for threatening man with gun
UPFA Western Provincial Council member Thushara Perera has been arrested for allegedly threatening a three-wheeler driver with a firearm, police said. MORE..
Liquor shops closed from July 10-12
The Department of Excise announced that all liquor shops in the island will be closed on July 10, 11 and 12 in view of the Temperance Month announced by the Ministry of Health. MORE..
Sri Lanka probes WFP over tsunami SUV gifts
The World Food Program is being investigated in Sri Lanka for gifting luxury duty-free vehicles to a charity headed by former president Mahinda Rajapakse’s wife, officials said Tuesday. MORE...
Stay order on full-face helmets extended
The Court of Appeal has further extended the stay order issued against the circular imposing a ban on full-face helmets. MORE..
Woman attempts suicide after strangling daughter
A woman had attempted to commit suicide after strangling to death her own daughter in the Keenalanwatta area in Ella, police said. MORE..
Saliya Wickramasuriya released on bail
Former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Sri Lanka Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Dr Saliya Wickramasuriya, has been released on bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Cop dead, 9 injured as van falls into precipice
A police constable was killed and another 09 officers were injured after the van they were traveling in fell into a precipice in Passara this morning. MORE..
CID reveals transactions between Wele Suda and actress
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today informed the CID to produce a copy of the Colombo High Court directive to freeze the bank accounts belonging to popular cinema and television actress, Udayanthi Kulatunga. MORE..
Special commodity levy on Dhal reduced, oils increased
The special commodity levy on imported Dhal has been reduced from Rs 5 to 25 cents per Kg while levy on oils - except coconut oil - has been increased from Rs 90 to 110 per kg from today.
Petitions against FCID and Sajith postponed
The Court of Appeals today postponed considering the petition filed against the Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID), until July 07. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until June 24 by the Colombo Magistrate’s. MORE..
Tissa grilled at Bribery Commission
Former UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake was today summoned to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption to record a statement regarding his acceptance of a ministerial portfolio before the Presidential Election. MORE..
Sri Lanka to treat migrants as ‘victims’ of smugglers
The Government is taking action against human traffickers under due processes while treating migrants as victims of smugglers, Sri Lanka’s envoy to the United Nations Ravinatha Aryasinha said. MORE..
Sri Lankan assaulted in Tiruchi special camp
A Sri Lankan Tamil, Y. Srijeyan (39), housed in a special camp in Tiruchi, sustained a head injury after he was allegedly assaulted by two other inmates on Sunday night. MORE..
Three dead after tipper truck-lorry collision
Three persons were killed following after a tipper truck ran over two pedestrians and crashed into a lorry at Ranwala, Kegalle on the Colombo-Kandy road. MORE..
Namal Rajapaksa questioned by CID
UPFA Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) this morning to give a statement, Ada Derana Reporter said. MORE..
MPs who failed A/L questioning CC nominees’ qualifications - CaFFE
A number of MPs have used the debate on the composition of the Constitution Council (CC) and the appointment of civil members to the CC to derail the progress made by the 19th amendment to the constitution, a Sri Lankan election watchdog said. MORE..
DV Upul further remanded till June 15
Southern Provincial Council Minister D.V. Upul, who was arrested over controversial comments he made regarding the FCID, has been further remanded until June 15 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Lankan among 3 injured in ferry accident off Montenegro
Doctors in Montenegro say one sailor has died and three more including a Sri Lankan had to be hospitalized after an accident on a Greek ferry near the country’s Adriatic coast. MORE...
Special commodity levy on potatoes, big onions slashed
The Ministry of Finance announced that the special commodity levy imposed on imported Potatoes and Big onions has been reduced with effect from midnight today (05). MORE..
Ranil wants to create UK-type ‘Serious Frauds’ division
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today said that the government is currently in the process of “cleaning up” the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and that they intend to establish a ‘Serious Frauds and Financial Crimes Division’ for this purpose. MORE..
Three-wheeler used in Raviraj assassination found – CID
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) today informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court that the three-wheeler which is believed to have been used in the assassination of the former TNA Parliamentarian Nadarajah Raviraj, has been located. MORE..
DV Upul banned from leaving country
The Colombo Chief Magistrate today issued a directive prohibiting Southern Provincial Councillor D.V. Upul from travelling overseas, following a request by the CID. MORE..
Shashi Weerawansa grilled by FCID
Former Minister Wimal Weerawansa’s wife, Shashi Weerawansa, arrived at the Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) to give a statement regarding a property transaction. MORE..
Parliament adjourned amidst CC stand-off
The Speaker today decided to adjourn Parliament until next Tuesday (June 09), despite its failure to reach a final decision with regard to the appointing of three civil society representatives to the Constitutional Council. MORE..
Truth behind Rugby player’s death expected soon
Police Spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara says that the truth regarding the death of rugby player Wasim Thajudeen will be uncovered very soon. MORE..
Johnston Fernando released on bail
Former Minister Johnston Fernando, who was arrested and remanded over charges of financial fraud, was released on bail by the Kurunegala High Court today. MORE..
South African delegation meets Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora in UK
A South African delegation has met with Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora organisations with a view to bringing a sense of normalcy to the North-East part of the island and exchange views on how they could contribute towards the peace and reconciliation process. MORE..
Special Parliamentary session to approve CC members
(UPDATE) A special parliamentary session to approve the civil society representatives of the Constitutional Council will be held next Wednesday (June 03), Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody said. MORE..
Shiranthi Rajapaksa summoned to FCID
Former first lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa has been asked to appear before the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), MP Namal Rajapaksa has said. MORE...
We don’t know who to believe now – Rajapaksa
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that certain members of the government who had accused him of corruption in the constructing of the Colombo Port City project, during the Presidential Election, are now saying no such thing has taken place. MORE..
JVP to boycott National Executive Council
The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) says that it would no longer participate in the National Executive Council. MORE..
Government recognizes the importance of engaging with the diaspora: Mangala
The Government recognizes the importance of engaging with the diaspora, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intends to take the lead in organizing a diapora festival where persons of Sri Lankan origin from around the world in all possible fields...MORE
Sri Lankan van driver jailed for killing jogger
An “extremely tired” Sri Lankan van driver who hit and killed a jogger near Epsom after working a 12-hour night shift has been jailed for four years by a UK court. MORE..
Sri Lanka condemns suicide attack on Saudi mosque
Sri Lanka has condemned Friday’s suicide attack on a mosque in Saudi Arabia that left at least 21 people dead and more than 100 injured. MORE..
Hambantota Mayor released on bail
Mayor of Hambantota Eraj Fernando, who was arrested and remanded for allegedly attempting to assault a suspect in police custody, has been released on bail by the Hambantota Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
New Parliament by September - President
President Maithripala Sirisena today said that the Sri Lankan Parliament will be dissolved after appointing a constitutional council and that there will be a new Parliament by September. MORE..
UN shows no positive progress for our issue, says Wigneswaran
Chief Minister of Northern Provincial Council Justice C.V. Wigneswaran on Monday (18) condemned the international community for its delay in handling the accountability issue in Sri Lanka and failure to bring justice to the Tamil people. MORE...
Bribery Commissioner resigns; new probes on hold
Justice L.K. Wimalachandra, a Commissioner of the Bribery Commission, has resigned with effect from Friday (15), the Director General of the commission Dilrukshi Dias Wickramasinghe said. MORE..
Majority of Sri Lankan refugees not willing to return - Swaminathan
Only 35 per cent of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees living in Tamil Nadu are willing to come back, D.M. Swaminathan, Minister for Resettlement, Reconstruction and Hindu Religious Affairs, said on Friday. MORE..
Muslim Council writes to JVP over resettlement comments
The Muslim Council of Sri Lanka today wrote to the JVP to raise its concern over comments made on the resettlement of Muslim IDPs. MORE...
Woman attempt self immolation after ministers’ visit
A 36-year-old woman has attempted self immolation at a displacement camp she had been staying in following the devastating landslide in Meeriyabedda. MORE..
SC issues order preventing Gota’s arrest
The Supreme Court today issued an interim order preventing the arrest of former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa, until the determination of the FR petition filed by him. MORE..
SC judge steps down from bench hearing Gota’s FR
Supreme Court Judge Buwaneka Aluwihare says that he will withdraw from the bench considering the fundamental rights (FR) petition filed by former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa. MORE..
Indian man kills Sri Lankan nurse in Kuwait
An Indian man murdered a Sri Lankan nurse in Kuwait following a rift over a KD500 (Rs 220,860) debt, a newspaper in the oil-rich Gulf emirate reported. MORE..
Diyawadana Nilame questioned by FCID
Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela is currently being questioned by the Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) over alleged financial fraud that took place in the Dalada Maligawa. MORE..
PM ensures the independence of FCID
Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe on Monday (11) said that the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), which came to effect in February through an extraordinary gazette notification, is only a functional division of the Police Department, which was established in response to the emerging trend of serious financial frauds. MORE...
FCID postpones; Gotabaya at Bribery Commission
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa who was initially informed to be present at the FCID today has been asked to appear on May 20, his attorney told Ada Derana. He is currently at the Bribery Commission to give a statement. MORE...
Ex-COO of RADA arrested for tsunami fund fraud
The former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Sri Lanka Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Saliya Wickramasuriya, has been arrested over alleged fraud in tsunami housing funds. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena has been summoned to appear at the Criminal Investigations Department on Monday (May 11). MORE..
FCID grills Maj Gen Nanda Mallawaarachchi
The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) is currently recording a statement from the former Secretary to the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Law and Order, Major General Nanda Mallawaarachchi, regarding alleged financial irregularities. MORE..
Methsiri loses Galle mayorship again
The Court of Appeals today annulled the Galle High Court’s decision to invalidate the gazette notification issued to remove Methsiri de Silva as Mayor of Galle Municipal Council. MORE..
Lankan accused in hit-and-run pleads guilty
A Sri Lankan man, who is in New Zealand on a work permit, has admitted he struck a woman while driving a rental car and talking on a mobile phone, then fled the scene. MORE..
Ada Derana reliably learns that former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been summoned to appear at the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) on May 1. MORE..
FCID arrests Johnston Fernando
The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) has arrested former Minister Johnston Fernando, a short while ago, the police Spokesperson said. MORE...
Sri Lankan jailed for reckless driving in Qatar
A Criminal Court in Doha has awarded a six-month jail sentence to a Sri Lankan expatriate motorist for his reckless driving, which caused the death of a GCC citizen and injury to some others, local Arabic daily Arrayah reported yesterday. MORE..
Woman dead, 22 injured in bus-tipper truck collision
A woman was killed and another 22 persons wounded following a traffic collision involving a SLTB bus and a tipper truck in the Sandunpura area on the Mahiyanganaya-Polonnaruwa main road. MORE..
Even the best constitution can be wrongly implemented - GL
Former External Affairs Minister Professor G.L. Peiris says that the passage of the 19th amendment is not the “massive constitutional revolution” believed by certain sections of the public. MORE..
Child dead, 13 injured after truck hits tree
A child was killed and another 13 persons wounded after a small truck, carrying a group of pilgrims, veered off the road and collided with a tree in Konwewa, Thambuttegama. MORE..
Dual citizens cannot contest Parliamentary Polls – govt
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ajith P. Perera says that according to provisions included in the 19th amendment to the constitution, Sri Lankan nationals who possess dual citizenships are not permitted to contest in the General Election. MORE..
Eraj Fernando further remanded until May 13
The Mayor of Hambantota, Eraj Fernando, who was arrested and remanded for allegedly attempting to assault a suspect in police custody was further remanded until May 13 by the Hambantota Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Sri Lanka economy grows 7.4% in 2014: CB Report
Sri Lanka’s economy grew by 7.4% (Agriculture 0.3%, Industry 11.4%, service 6.5%) last year, according to the Annual Report of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2014 which was launched today. MORE..
India urges Sri Lanka Navy not to fire on stray Indian fishermen
The Indian Government today said it has requested Sri Lankan Navy to act with restraint and not to fire on Indian fishermen if they stray into the waters of the island nation. MORE..
EXCLUSIVE: Positive proposals from opposition not discarded – Wijedasa
Minister of Justice Wijedasa Rajapaksa says that not a single positive proposal brought forward by opposition parliamentary groups with regard to the 19th amendment were discarded by the government, despite the raising of baseless and childish arguments at various points. MORE..
Parliament has approved three(03) months leave for MP Basil Rajapaksa commencing from today(28). The approval was granted on a proposal made by Opposition leader Nimal Siripala De Silva. MORE...
Woman murders husband with crowbar
A woman has allegedly murdered her husband in the Kibissa area in Sigiriya this morning. Police said that the victim was asleep at home when his wife attacked him with a hexagonal crowbar (Alawanguwa). MORE...
Basil Rajapaksa transferred to prison hospital
MP Basil Rajapaksa who was remanded last night by the Kaduwela Magistrate has been transferred to the prison hospital, Police told Ada Derana. MORE...
Former Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa and two other senior ministry officials, who were arrested by the Police FCID over allegations of financial fraud, have been remanded until the 05th of May by the Kaduwela Magistrate. MORE..
Teenage lovers leap to their deaths at Diyaluma Falls
Two teenage lovers committed suicide by jumping from the top of the Diyaluma Falls this evening. MORE..
Lankan charged over hit-and-run in New Zealand
A Sri Lankan man has allegedly hit a woman in the rental car he was driving then fled the scene in New Zealand, foreign media reported. MORE..
Mother jumps in front of train with infant
A woman carrying her infant son committed suicide this morning by jumping in front of a speeding train in the Pilimathalawa area. Police said that the both the mother and son were killed instantly. MORE..
At least 37 passengers have been wounded and hospitalised after a bus toppled in the 2nd Mile Post area on the Passara-Madolsima road this afternoon. MORE..
Youth murders father, jumps in front of train
A 21-year-old youth who allegedly murdered his father in the Ganangolla area in Polonnaruwa has committed suicide by jumping in front of a speeding train. MORE..
Nishantha Ranatunga questioned by FCID
The Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) is currently questioning former SLC Secretary Nishantha Ranatunga, regarding a financial transaction of a private media organisation. MORE..
Dissanayake to step down as SLFP Ampara organiser
Former Provincial Councilor Wimalaweera Dissanayake on Sunday (12) asserted that he will step down from his post as the Sri Lanka Freedom Party organiser for Ampara electoral district in protest over party’s conclusion to sack several members attached to its central committee. MORE...
80% pictorial warnings from June
The government has unanimously passed regulations to include pictorial warnings about the negative health effects of smoking on all cigarette products. MORE..
STF member dies from accidental shooting
A police constable serving with the Special Task Force (STF) was killed after being accidentally shot by another officer during a raid carried out in the Ridee Ella Reserve at Bakamuna, Dambulla. MORE..
The police Special Investigation Unit on Thursday (9) recorded a statement from MP Tiran Alles over an alleged financial fraud, the police Spokesperson said. MORE...
Police Inspector arrested for accepting bribe
An Inspector attached to the Ahungalla Police Station has been arrested on charges of soliciting a bribe. MORE..
China today denied that a sum of Rs 30 billion has been reduced from the construction cost of the Colombo Outer Circular Expressway, as claimed by the spokesman of the Sri Lankan government. MORE..
Indian couple found dead at hotel in Wellawatta
Police today discovered the bodies of an Indian couple who had died under suspicious circumstances at a hotel in Wellawatta. MORE..
Four held with gold, foreign currency worth over Rs 5.4m
Four persons including 2 women have been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) when they attempted to leave the country with gold and foreign currency estimated to be worth over Rs 5.4 million. MORE..
Embilipitiya UC chairman removed
The Chairman of the Embilipitiya Urban Council, Venerable Wevelduwe Gnanapraba Thero, has been temporarily removed from the post by Sabaragamuwa Chief Minister Maheepala Herath. MORE..
FCID grills ex-Air Force chief Donald Perera
The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) is currently questioning former Sri Lanka Air Force commander Air Chief Marshal G Donald Perera regarding the controversial MiG deal. MORE..
Sri Lankan fishermen welcome Ranil’s ‘shooting’ remarks
Fishermen of the Jaffna peninsula in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province say they welcome Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe’s remarks that Indian fishermen may be shot if they intruded into Sri Lankan waters. MORE..
Three navy personnel arrested over Nadarajah Raviraj killing
Three navy personnel have been detained and are being questioned by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) over the killing of TNA MP Nadarajah Raviraj in 2006, the police spokesman said. MORE..
P.B. Jayasundera questioned over hedging deal
The Financial Crime Investigation Division (FCID) is currently recording a statement from former Treasury Secretary and Economic Development Ministry Secretary P.B. Jayasundera in connection with the controversial hedging deal, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE...
The Colombo Fort Magistrate on Tuesday (31) granted bail to MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena on a case filed by the Bribery Commission over failure to declare his assets. MORE..
Nivard Cabraal questioned over hedging deal
The Financial Crime Investigation Division (FCID) is currently recording a statement from former Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal in connection with the controversial hedging deal, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE...
Pablo de Greiff to visit Sri Lanka today
UN Special Rapporteur on Truth, Justice, Reparations, and Guarantees of Non-recurrence, Pablo de Greiff, will arrive in Sri Lanka for a six-day visit, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said on Sunday (29). MORE...
Sri Lanka fires fresh salvo at Chinese firm
The Chinese company involved in the controversial US$1.4 billion Colombo Port City project has failed to furnish the necessary documents within the two-week deadline set by the new government, which is also reviewing other Chinese projects including a high-profile telecommunications tower, Sri Lanka’s finance minister said. MORE..
China offers Sri Lanka olive branch and warnings
President Xi Jinping worked to mend relations with Sri Lanka on Thursday as Chinese state-run media warned the island nation’s new government against shutting off billions in investments from Beijing, AFP reports. MORE...
Sirisena meets China’s President amid new look at ties
Sri Lankan president Maithripala Sirisena has held talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping amid efforts to recalibrate his predecessor’s strongly pro-China policies. MORE..
Govt to establish National Unity office under CBK
The government is planning to establish an office of National Unity headed by former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga to promote national unity in the country. MORE..
President Sirisena leaves for Beijing
President Maithripala Sirisena today left for Beijing commencing a four-day state visit on the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. MORE..
Sri Lanka call for US $ 1.4b Chinese project to continue
Ahead of Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena’s first visit to China a local organisation called for China’s largest investment project to resume, an official said on Tuesday. MORE...
JVP mulls quitting National Executive Council
The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) says that the government had taken a sudden decision to cancel the National Executive Council meeting scheduled for today. MORE..
Port city issue should not hinder bilateral ties: China
Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Jianchao says that the temporarily suspended port city development should not hinder the strengthening the friendly relationship between Sri Lanka and China. MORE...
Sarana Gunawardena further remanded
Former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena, who was arrested on charges of financial fraud and criminal breach of trust, has been further remanded until March 30 by the Attanagalla Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
New administrative procedure introduced for dual citizenship
The new administrative procedure for the granting of dual citizenship will be introduced from today, Minister of Public Order, Disaster Management and Christian Affairs John Amaratunga said. MORE..
Bid to invite Dalai Lama stirs up controversy
The reported bid by a leading Sri Lankan Buddhist monk to invite the Dalai Lama to the island nation, has received flak from official as well as non-official quarters in Colombo. MORE..
Bribery Commission files action against Sajin
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption today filed action against MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena under section 9 of the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Law No. 1 on 1975. MORE..
Probe launched into attack on Buddhist monk at Colombo school
Cinnamon Garden Police have launched an investigation into a complaint alleging that a Buddhist monk serving as a teacher at a leading school in Colombo was assaulted by the principal of the same school. MORE..
Will Chinese investors quit if Port City comes to a standstill?
The temporary suspension of the Port City project in Colombo has put lot of Chinese investors in uncertainty regarding the Sri Lankan investment policy. MORE..
Wele Suda’s accomplice in Pakistan arrested, brought to Sri Lanka
A wanted Sri Lankan drug trafficker, believed to be an accomplice of notorious drug lord Samantha Kumara alias “Wele Suda,” has been brought back to the country following his arrest in Pakistan, police said today. MORE..
Government grants approval to construct breakwater of Colombo Port City
Sri Lanka’s cabinet on Wednesday approved the construction of a breakwater for a Chinese funded port city project which had been suspended by the government earlier this month. MORE...
Parliamentarian Sajin Vass Gunawardena currently being questioned by the Fraud Investigation Bureau over an alleged financial fraud, a police source said.
Goverment condemns Lahore church attacks
Sri Lanka condemns in the strongest possible terms the heinous terrorist suicide attacks targeting worshippers who were attending Sunday prayers at two Christian churches at Youhanabad, Lahore in Pakistan on 15 March 2015 killing 16 people and injuring more than 70 people, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday (18). MORE...
Chinese PM to discuss suspended project with the President
Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang is likely to have friendly discussions with President Maithripala Sirisena who is scheduled to visit China later this month and negotiations with respect to the suspended Colombo Port City Project (CPCP) will be a high priority topic, Ada Derana learns. MORE...
China urges Sri Lanka to protect interests of investors
China on Tuesday urged Sri Lanka to protect the interests of Chinese investors and promote bilateral economic ties following the suspension of a China-funded port project in Colombo. MORE...
Restraining order on Harbour protesters
The Colombo Magistrate on Tuesday (17) issued a restraining order on the officials of Harbour Container Transport Union preventing them from blocking the entrance to the Harbour. MORE...
11 more trade unions join container truck drivers’ strike
Eleven more trade unions have today joined to the strike action launched by container truck drivers at the entrance to the Colombo Port. MORE..
Files on Wele Sudha’s deals missing: AG
The Colombo High Court on Monday (16) ordered the ASP in charge of Mt-Lavinia police division to submit a report on several misplaced files with regard to a case filed against well-known drug baron Wele Sudha. MORE...
Sri Lanka-China tensions rise over suspended port project
The Sri Lankan government’s decision to review, and in effect suspend, the $US1.4 billion, Chinese-backed Colombo Port City (CPC) project has strained relations between Beijing and Colombo. MORE...
Pope Francis predicts his papacy will be brief
On the second anniversary of the start of his papacy, Pope Francis announced that the Roman Catholic Church would mark an extraordinary Holy Year in December, though he might not be celebrating many more anniversaries in the future. MORE...
Tamils seek positive action to resolve problems - Wigneswaran
Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran says that even though security concerns should be left to the Central Administration in any Country, it should not transgress the limits of protection of the Country to a protracted pursuit of purposeful military occupation with political undertones in place. MORE..
Rajapaksa says RAW rallied opposition to his presidency
Claiming that the Research and Analysis Wing conspired with “Western agencies” CIA and MI-6 to rally the opposition led by President Maithripala Sirisena against his presidency, Sri Lanka’s former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says he does not, however, believe Prime Minister Narendra Modi or the government was responsible. MORE..
Ex-Kegalle UC member commits suicide
A former UNP member of the Kegalle Urban Council has committed suicide by hanging himself, police said. MORE..
Body recovered from Ja-Ela canal
A body has been recovered from the Ja-Ela canal this morning, police said. The deceased, a man believed to be in his early 50s, had reportedly committed suicide by jumping into the canal last night. MORE..
Court issues notice on six including Finance Minister
The Appeal Court today (12 March) issued notices on six including Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, Secretary to the Treasury, Deputy Secretary to the Treasury and Director General of Customs. MORE..
‘If this is good governance, then god bless Sri Lanka’
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that politicians have now started to say things which should be said by the IGP or Attorney General and that politicians are the ones announcing who will be remanded, who will be arrested and within how many days. MORE..
Sarana Gunawardena arrested by CID
Former Deputy Ministers Sarana Gunawardena has been arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) today on charges of criminal breach of trust, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
32 CPC members submit affidavits to remove CM Sarath Ekanayake
Thirty-two Central Provincial Council (CPC) members today submitted affidavits to the Governor of the Central Province Surangani Ellawala, seeking to remove Sarath Ekanayake from the post of Chief Minister and appoint Thilina Bandara Tennakoon instead. MORE..
MP Sri Ranga’s jeep crashes into tree
The vehicle in which MP J. Sri Ranga was traveling had caught fire after it crashed into a tree in the Naula area on the Dambulla-Matale road. MORE..
Sri Lanka is not anti-China but mainland firms won’t get ‘carte blanche’: Ravi
Sri Lanka’s new leadership is not targeting China and only wants its help to fight corrupt deals orchestrated by the last government, the island nation’s finance minister said, even as he ratcheted up rhetoric against Chinese companies he said were once given “carte blanche” in his country. MORE...
Muslims can live in harmony with very different religions, Dahalan
President of the Centre for Islamic Research and Information (CIRI) and Psychological Counsellor, Mohamed Dahalan, on Friday (6) severely criticised the policy of some print, electronic media organisations and civil organisations for their bid to damage the “good reputation” of Islam and Muslims. MORE...
China asks Sri Lanka to protect interests of investors
China has urged Sri Lanka to respect bilateral agreements and business contracts, and protect the interests of its investors following the suspension of a multi- billion-U.S. dollar project, the Chinese Embassy said on Saturday. MORE...
Chinese firm confirms suspension of Colombo Port City project
China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), the ultimate investor in the Colombo Port City Project, says that it will fully cooperate with the Government of Sri Lanka and continue to adhere to the procedures and conditions stipulated in the agreement entered into with the government. MORE..
National Drug Policy Bill passed in Parliament
The National Medicine Regulatory Authority Bill which was tabled in Parliament on Tuesday has been passed with amendments in parliament with a majority of 67 votes. MORE..
Colombo Port City project suspended
The cabinet has decided to suspend the Colombo Port City project temporarily, Cabinet Spokesman Rajith Senaratne said. MORE...
New members appointed to National Sports Council
Minister of Tourism and Sports Navin Dissanayake has appointed Members of the National Sports Council to advise him on matters pertaining to development of sports for a period of three years. MORE..
Protest against Colombo Port City causes traffic jam
Severe traffic congestion has been reported around York Street Fort in Colombo due to a protest against the Colombo Port City Project by environmental groups, police said.
SLFP politicos barred from attending other party rallies
The Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) has decided to prohibit people’s representatives of the party from participating in public rallies organized by other political parties, without approval from the party. MORE..
UPDATE: Mangala slams ex-government’s policy
“With the previous government choosing to operate with a sense of impunity, opportunities for reconciliation and restoration of human rights suffered,” Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said. The observation was made at the 28th Regular Session of Human Rights Council in Geneva, this afternoon. MORE...
China says Sri Lanka loans made “based on consensus”
China’s loans to Sri Lanka were made based on consensus through talks between the two countries and at Sri Lanka’s request, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday, after Sri Lanka’s foreign minister expressed concern about the loans. MORE...
Bus strike on Kandy-Colombo route
Inter-provincial private buses operating on the Kandy-Colombo route have resorted to a strike action, since this morning, President of the Lanka Private Bus Owners Association Gemunu Wijerathne said. MORE...
Bus strike on Tangalle-Colombo route
Private buses operating on the Tangalle-Colombo route have resorted to a strike action since this morning, President of the Lanka Private Bus Owners Association Gemunu Wijerathne said. MORE...
BRSR Nagahamulla new CID Director
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) B.R.S.R. Nagahamulla has been appointed as the new Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). MORE..
Malaysia eyes infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka
Malaysia has proposed to implement several infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka under a government-to-government understanding which, among others, include the Colombo City Monorail by Scomi International, oil pipeline, highways, and housing development. MORE..
Sri Lanka says China to be consulted on any project re-think
Sri Lanka will not make any decision on Chinese projects it is reviewing until it consults China, Sri Lanka’s foreign minister said on Friday, pledging that his new government would welcome Chinese investors. MORE..
Rugby player’s death was not accidental: Police
An inquest into the mysterious death of former national rugby player Wasim Thajudeen has been initiated following the emergence of new information with respect to the case in the recent past, Police Spokesperson SSP Ajith Rohana said. MORE...
AG gets six more months to decide on KP
The Court of Appeal on Thursday (26) granted more time for the Attorney General’s Department to submit a comprehensive report with respect to the Writ Application filed against Shanmugam Kumaran Tharmalingam alias Kumaran Pathmanathan (KP). MORE...
Minister Dissanayake vows actions against absent officials
Minister of Tourism and Sports Navin Dissanayake has said that stern action will be taken against some key officials who did not attend a meeting between the Minister of Sports and the Heads of the National Sports Associations which was held this afternoon (25) at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Auditorium. MORE...
Shashi Weerawansa, the wife of ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa was further remanded until 4 March by the Colombo Magistrate, this afternoon (25). MORE...
Youth found shot dead at Millennium City
The body of a person, who is believed to have been shot and killed, has been found inside a residence at Millennium City in Athurugiriya. MORE..
Court orders prison hospital to take charge of Wimal’s wife
The Colombo Chief Magistrate has directed the Prisons Hospital doctor to take charge of Shashi Weerawansa, who is being treated at a private hospital in Malabe while under arrest. MORE..
Ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa on Monday (23) denied allegations leveled against his wife describing it as a “totally false” complaint. MORE...
Ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa has been summoned to the Police Headquarters on Monday (23) morning and is being questioned by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers, a senior police officer told Ada Derana. MORE...
Wimal Weerawansa’s wife arrested
Shashi Weerawansa, wife of former Minister Wimal Weerawansa, who was under investigation for allegedly submitting forged documents to get a diplomatic passport, has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Police Spokesperson SSP Ajith Rohana said. MORE...
Special police unit to probe large-scale financial crime
The police department has decided to establish a special unit to investigate large-scale financial crimes, including money laundering. MORE..
Police mistakenly took away my vehicle - Raththaran
UPFA Southern Provincial Council member Krishantha Pushpakumara, popularly known as “Raththaran,” says that police have seized an SUV belonging to him, mistaking it for one of the vehicles missing from the Presidential Secretariat. MORE...
Arjuna dismayed by delay in punishment
Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Arjuna Ranatunga today expressed dismay at the delay in punishing of corrupt officials charged with misconduct under the previous regime. MORE..
CID allowed to detain Wele Suda till March 23
The Colombo High Court today granted permission to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to interrogate notorious drug baron Samantha Kumara alias ‘Wele Suda’ under detention orders till March 23. MORE..
Sri Lanka says China port city broke rules
Sri Lanka’s prime minister said on Wednesday a $1.5 billion luxury real estate deal with China was signed without cabinet approval and without following procedures, and launched a new investigation to uncover any corruption. MORE...
SC rejects Kumar Gunaratnam’s petition
The petition filed by Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) Central Committee Member Kumar Gunaratnam seeking to prevent him from being arrested and deported from the country has been dismissed by the Supreme Court on Wednesday (18). MORE...
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has decided to accept two ministerial portfolios and the deputy chairmanship of the Eastern Provincial Council. MORE..
U.N. rights chief backs delay for Sri Lanka war crimes report
Sri Lanka’s bid to postpone publication of a UnitedNations report into alleged war crimes has won the backing of U.N. human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Monday. MORE...
Pope Francis returns SL donation
A gift of a cash donation of more than Rs. 8.7 million given by the Catholic Bishops was given back to Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith by Pope Francis, the Archdiocesan Monthly Bulletin ‘Koinonia’ reported. MORE...
India must push Sri Lanka on 13A - Sampanthan
The Indian government must continue pushing the Sri Lankan government towards the implementation of the 13th Amendment, Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan said. MORE..
Karunanidhi wants India to move resolution against Sri Lanka
DMK president M Karunanidhi on Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider moving a resolution in the UNHRC against Sri Lanka over alleged genocide and wanted India to support adoption of a human rights violation report in the world body. MORE..
Kindelpitiya hands over info on ‘white van’ abductions to CID
Democratic Party (DP) Western Provincial Council member Susil Kindelpitiya today handed over information to the CID regarding 13 alleged disappearances and ‘white van’ abductions which had taken place during the previous government. MORE..
SC bars deportation of Kumar Gunaratnam until Feb 18
The Supreme Court today instructed immigration authorities not to take measures to deport Frontline Socialists Party (FSP) central committee member Premakumar ‘Kumar’ Gunaratnam, until February 18. MORE..
School girl’s body found after suspected double suicide
The body of a 15-year-old school girl has been fished out from the Deduru Oya Reservoir this morning, two days after she allegedly jumped into the reservoir with a teenage boy in an apparent double suicide. MORE..
Sri Lankan sisters charged over housing benefit scam
Two Sri Lankan sisters who raked in £183,000 in a six-year housing benefit scam could face jail in Ilford north-eastern Greater London, England. MORE..
Woman stabs 4-year-old son, hangs herself
A 31-year-old woman has committed suicide after stabbing and critically injuring her four-year-old son in the Dadagamuwa area in Weyangoda this morning, police said. MORE..
Body of missing teen found in Deduru Oya; search continues for girl
As a result of search operations launched from yesterday after two teenagers – a boy and a girl - allegedly jumped into the Deduru Oya Reservoir, authorities today recovered the body of the 15-year-old boy. MORE..
China official says Colombo Port City project going ahead
The China-funded port city project in Colombo was going ahead, a top Chinese official from the company executing it said Wednesday, days after the new Sri Lankan government claimed the deal was still being assessed. MORE..
Can’t call it “genocide” – Rajitha
Terming the resolution adopted in the Northern Provincial Council an “extremist position,” Health Minister and Cabinet spokesman Rajitha Senaratne says President Maithripala Sirisena had promised to initiate an internationally approved, domestic inquiry process. MORE..
CID to question Duminda Silva again
UPFA Parliamentarian R. Duminda Silva is to be summoned to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) today for further questioning on money laundering charges. MORE..
Northern PC adopts another resolution: calls for international investigation
The Northern Provincial Council (NPC) today unanimously passed a resolution and called for an international investigation into alleged ‘genocide’ against the Tamils community. MORE...
Authorities told not to deport Kumar Gunaratnam
The Supreme Court today directed authorities not to take steps to deport Frontline Socialists Party (FSP) central committee member Premakumar ‘Kumar’ Gunaratnam, until February 13. MORE..
Drug baron Wela Sudha’s case: CID questions Duminda Silva
Parliamentarian Duminda Silva has been questioned for nearly six hours by the cops attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in connection with his alleged involvement with the drug baron ‘Wele Sudha’, a senior police officer said.
Former BBC producer to make film promoting reconciliation in Sri Lanka
A former BBC television producer is raising money to fund a film promoting reconciliation in Sri Lanka after decades of civil war. MORE...
Basker & Shashikala win Derana City of Dance – Season 5
Basker & Shashikala were adjudged the winners Derana City of Dance – Season 05 in the grand finale held at the Maharagama Youth Center on Saturday (Feb. 07). MORE..
Armed robbery at financial institute in Warakapola
An armed robbery has taken place at a private financial institution located in the Warakapola town. MORE...
Two convicted in VAT scam brought to Sri Lanka
Two Sri Lankan nationals convicted in South Asia’s largest VAT scam case were brought to Sri Lanka from Malaysia last night, police spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said. MORE..
China welcomes decision to go ahead with Port City Project
China today welcomed new Sri Lankan government’s decision to go ahead with the controversial USD 1.5 billion Colombo Port City project funded by it, calling the country an important partner in implementing its mega Maritime Silk Road project in South Asia. MORE..
Maithri continuing with Mahinda’s oppressive laws - FSP
The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) today accused President Maithripala Sirisena of carrying out the same “oppressive laws” as former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. MORE..
Sri Lanka to go ahead with China-backed Port City Project
The Cabinet has decided to continue with the Chinese-assisted Colombo Port City Project, cabinet spokesman Dr. Rajitha Senaratna said today. MORE..
Tissa Attanayake gets relief from court
The Fort Magistrate’s Court today allowed Tissa Attanayake MP to attend Parliament sessions on 5, 6, and 7, February. MORE...
Attanayake remanded until 11 Feb
Former United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Tissa Attanayake was remanded by the Fort Magistrate’s Court until 11 February, a short while ago. MORE...
Former United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Tissa Attanayake has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), this afternoon, Police Spokesperson SSP Ajith Rohana said. MORE...
US Assistant Secretary to arrive in Sri Lanka
The United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on an official tour. She will arrive in the island on Sunday (February 01). MORE...
Shirani assumes duties as CJ; will retire tomorrow
The Government has removed all obstacles for Chief Justice Dr. Shirani Bandaranayaka to hold her position as the 43rd Chief Justice of Sri Lanka, Bar Association President Upul Jayasuriya said. She has assumed duites and will retire from her post tomorrow, Jayasuriya added. MORE...