A search and rescue operation is underway to locate a 19-year-old youth who went missing after being swept away by strong currents while bathing in the Kalu Ganga near the Naragala Bridge in Horana yesterday (31).

Police said the youth was among three friends who arrived at the location to bathe in the river at around 7.30 p.m. yesterday. 

When one of them jumped into the river, he was swept away by the strong current while attempting to swim. Another youth then jumped into the river to rescue him but was also caught in the current and struggled to reach the riverbank, police said.

The missing youth has been identified as a 19-year-old resident of the Yala area.

Subsequently, the Horana Police were informed of the incident, following which officers arrived and initiated investigations.

Lifesaving teams from the Police Marine Division are scheduled to conduct a search for the missing youth in the Kalu Ganga this morning (01). 

Police noted that the area is known for strong currents, and due to concerns over crocodiles in the vicinity, local residents and the youths’ friends reportedly kept bonfires burning along the riverbank overnight.

Horana Police are conducting further investigations into the incident.