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Fuel prices revised
Fuel prices revised
The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (Ceypetco) has announced a revision of fuel prices effective from midnight today (31). MORE..
Air Japan to cease operations from March 2026
Air Japan to cease operations from March 2026
Air Japan will cease all flight operations from March 2026, almost two years after Japanese airline group ANA launched the brand to offer low-cost flights mainly on Asian routes. MORE..
Apple delivers strong quarter despite iPhone sales slowdown
Apple delivers strong quarter despite iPhone sales slowdown
Apple’s iPhone sales growth decelerated during its summertime quarter, but the trendsetting company still delivered financial results that exceeded analyst projections while continuing its efforts to catch up to its Big Tech peers in the artificial intelligence race. MORE..
Navy seizes dinghy with Kerala cannabis worth over Rs. 41 million
Navy seizes dinghy with Kerala cannabis worth over Rs. 41 million
The Sri Lanka Navy has seized a dinghy carrying approximately 185kg and 600g of Kerala cannabis and arrested two suspects during a search operation conducted in the Delft sea area off Jaffna. MORE..
Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Gallagher to visit Sri Lanka
Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Gallagher to visit Sri Lanka
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, will undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka from November 03 to 08, 2025. MORE..
Hanif Yusoof appointed President’s Special Envoy for Foreign Investment
Hanif Yusoof appointed President’s Special Envoy for Foreign Investment
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof as the President’s Special Envoy for Foreign Investment. MORE..
Kuchchaveli PS Chairman arrested on bribery charges
Kuchchaveli PS Chairman arrested on bribery charges
The Chairman of the Kuchchaveli Pradeshiya Sabha has been arrested on charges of soliciting a bribe of Rs. 500,000, police said. MORE..
Sri Lankan High Commissioner presents credentials to King Charles III
Sri Lankan High Commissioner presents credentials to King Charles III
The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom, Nimal Senadheera, has officially presented his Letters of Credence to His Majesty King Charles III, according to the Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
T-56 assault rifle, 3 grenades also found within Jaffna Uni premises
T-56 assault rifle, 3 grenades also found within Jaffna Uni premises
A T-56 assault rifle, three hand grenades and several rounds of ammunition have been discovered within the premises of the University of Jaffna, hidden in the roof of the university’s library, police said. MORE..
Former STC Chairman granted bail
Former STC Chairman granted bail
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the release on bail of the former Chairman of the Sri Lanka State Trading (General) Corporation (STC), Hussain Ahamed Bhaila, who was arrested by the Bribery Commission on corruption charges. MORE..
Colombo inflation rises to 2.1% in October 2025
Colombo inflation rises to 2.1% in October 2025
The overall rate of inflation, as measured by the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) on a Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) basis, increased to 2.1% in October 2025, compared to 1.5% in September 2025, according to the latest data released by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS). MORE..
Wife of ‘Backhoe Saman’ granted bail
Wife of ‘Backhoe Saman’ granted bail
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the release on bail of Shadhika Lakshani, the wife of notorious underworld figure ‘Backhoe Saman’, who is currently in remand custody. MORE..
Shooting incident reported in Kalawana
Shooting incident reported in Kalawana
A shooting incident has been reported in the Delgoda area of Kalawana, resulting in injuries to two individuals. MORE..
‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’ murder: CID seeks extension of detention for arrested female lawyer
‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’ murder: CID seeks extension of detention for arrested female lawyer
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court today that it intends to obtain a detention order for a further 90 days for a female lawyer...MORE..
‘Conjuring’ prequel movie in the works after ‘Last Rites’ breaks franchise box office records
‘Conjuring’ prequel movie in the works after ‘Last Rites’ breaks franchise box office records
Audiences haven’t seen the last of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, who will return in another “Conjuring” movie. MORE..
Fire breaks out in transformer at Maradana
Fire breaks out in transformer at Maradana
A fire has reportedly broken out in an electricity transformer located on Jayantha Weerasekara Mawatha in Maradana. MORE..
Former STC Chairman arrested by Bribery Commission
Former STC Chairman arrested by Bribery Commission
Former Chairman of the Sri Lanka State Trading (General) Corporation (STC), Hussain Ahamed Bhaila, has been arrested by officers of Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). MORE..
IGP and Speaker agree to provide security to MPs on request
IGP and Speaker agree to provide security to MPs on request
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Speaker of Parliament have agreed to provide security to all Members of Parliament who request for security personnel, MP Jagath Withana stated. MORE..
Enter Air launches weekly seasonal flights from Poland to Sri Lanka
Enter Air launches weekly seasonal flights from Poland to Sri Lanka
With the arrival of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, two planes carrying tourists from Poland arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake this morning (31), marking their inaugural flights. MORE..
Rural road development in Sri Lanka backed by USD 90M ADB loan
Rural road development in Sri Lanka backed by USD 90M ADB loan
The Government of Sri Lanka has successfully concluded discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to mobilize a loan amounting to USD 90 million under the Second Integrated Road Investment Program (iRoad 2) – Tranche 5. MORE..
Payments via ‘GovPay’ surpass Rs. 750 million
Payments via ‘GovPay’ surpass Rs. 750 million
GovPay, a secure and user-friendly online platform designed to facilitate digital payments for Sri Lanka’s government services, has successfully processed over Rs. 750 million in transactions, the Ministry of Digital Economy stated. MORE..
Wellawaya Magistrate suspended from duties
Wellawaya Magistrate suspended from duties
Wellawaya Magistrate Manjula Ratnayake has been suspended from his duties. MORE..
Sri Lanka confirms tourists not required to obtain Electronic Travel Authorisation
Sri Lanka confirms tourists not required to obtain Electronic Travel Authorisation
Tourists travelling to Sri Lanka are not required to obtain Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to their arrival in the island nation, the authorities said. MORE..
Ex-President Mahinda’s Chief Security Officer granted bail
Ex-President Mahinda’s Chief Security Officer granted bail
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the release on bail of Neville Wanniarachchi, Chief Security Officer to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was arrested and remanded by the Bribery Commission on suspicion of illegally acquiring assets and properties worth Rs. 28 million. MORE..
IGP arrives at parliament to discuss MPs’ security
IGP arrives at parliament to discuss MPs’ security
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Priyantha Weerasuriya, has arrived at Parliament this morning (31) to discuss the security concerns for Members of Parliament. MORE..
Barcelona’s Sagrada Família becomes world’s tallest church
Barcelona’s Sagrada Família becomes world’s tallest church
The Sagrada Família has become the tallest church in the world, after workers placed the first part of a cross at the top of its central tower. MORE..
4 fishermen rescued after 13 days at sea brought to Hambantota Port
4 fishermen rescued after 13 days at sea brought to Hambantota Port
The four fishermen who were rescued after being stranded at sea for 13 days after setting out to sea from Dondra were brought back to the Hambantota Port by the Sri Lanka Navy at around 5 a.m. today (31). MORE..
Trump sets refugee ceiling at record-low 7,500 with focus on white South Africans
Trump sets refugee ceiling at record-low 7,500 with focus on white South Africans
U.S. President Donald Trump set the refugee admissions ceiling at 7,500 for fiscal year 2026, the lowest cap on record, a White House document published on Thursday said, part of a broader effort to reshape refugee policies in the U.S. and worldwide. MORE..
Two firearm magazines found in Jaffna Uni. premises
Two firearm magazines found in Jaffna Uni. premises
Two firearm magazines have been discovered within the premises of the University of Jaffna. MORE..
3 close associates of ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’ arrested with ‘Ice’ worth over Rs. 35 mln
3 close associates of ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’ arrested with ‘Ice’ worth over Rs. 35 mln
More information has emerged regarding the seizure of the narcotic substance ‘Ice’ valued at around Rs. 35 million in the Palliyawatta area of the Wattala Police Division. MORE..
Sri Lanka Customs revenue surpasses Rs. 2 trillion mark in 2025
Sri Lanka Customs revenue surpasses Rs. 2 trillion mark in 2025
Sri Lanka Customs has surpassed the Rs. 2 trillion (Rs. 2,000 billion) mark in tax revenue collection for the year, as of last evening (30). MORE..
Xi to meet Canadian, Japanese leaders after Trump trade truce
Xi to meet Canadian, Japanese leaders after Trump trade truce
China’s Xi Jinping will take centre stage at an annual gathering of Pacific Rim leaders in South Korea on Friday, holding talks with Canadian, Japanese and Thai counterparts after securing a fragile trade truce with U.S. President Donald Trump. MORE..
Suspect arrested over shooting during party in Panadura
Suspect arrested over shooting during party in Panadura
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting in which one person was killed and another was injured when two unidentified gunmen who arrived on a motorcycle opened fire with a T56 firearm during a party in the Malamulla area, within the Hirana Police Division. MORE..
King Charles strips brother Andrew of titles and his mansion
King Charles strips brother Andrew of titles and his mansion
Britain’s King Charles has stripped his younger brother Andrew of his title of prince and forced him out of his Windsor home, Buckingham Palace said on Thursday, seeking to distance the royals from him over his links to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. MORE..
GMOA temporarily calls off island-wide strike
GMOA temporarily calls off island-wide strike
The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has temporarily called off the island-wide strike that was scheduled to commence at 8.00 a.m. today (31). MORE..
Mainly fair weather expected to prevail today
Mainly fair weather expected to prevail today
Mainly fair weather will prevail in the most parts of the island, today (31), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Israel carries out deadly incursion in south Lebanon
Israel carries out deadly incursion in south Lebanon
The Israeli military on Thursday (Oct 30) carried out a deadly raid in southern Lebanon, prompting Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to order the army to confront such incursions. MORE..
Five Excise Officers arrested by CID
Five Excise Officers arrested by CID
Five officers of the Narcotics Unit of the Excise Department have been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). MORE..
Chinese envoy on how expanding RMB cooperation can help Sri Lanka’s economic recovery
Chinese envoy on how expanding RMB cooperation can help Sri Lanka’s economic recovery
At a critical period for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and structural adjustment, expanding cooperation with China’s renminbi (RMB) will undoubtedly inject fresh momentum into trade facilitation, investment attraction and financial system modernization, says Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong. MORE..
Doctors to launch island-wide strike tomorrow
Doctors to launch island-wide strike tomorrow
The Government Medical Officers’ Association has decided to launch an island-wide strike starting at 8.00 a.m. tomorrow (31). MORE..
Afghanistan and Pakistan agree to restart peace talks in Istanbul, sources say
Afghanistan and Pakistan agree to restart peace talks in Istanbul, sources say
Afghanistan and Pakistan will restart peace talks in Istanbul, three sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday, a day after Islamabad said the discussions had ended in failure. MORE..
New 24-hour hotline introduced to report drug-related offences
New 24-hour hotline introduced to report drug-related offences
In line with the island-wide anti-drug operation being conducted under the theme “Nation United – National Drive” to eradicate narcotics, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) has introduced a new 24-hour hotline. MORE..
Trump directs nuclear weapons testing to resume for first time in over 30 years
Trump directs nuclear weapons testing to resume for first time in over 30 years
President Donald Trump has called on US military leaders to resume testing US nuclear weapons in order to keep pace with other countries such as Russia and China. MORE..
Seven suspects arrested over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder remanded till Nov. 13
Seven suspects arrested over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder remanded till Nov. 13
Seven suspects, including the gunman arrested in connection with the shooting and killing of Lasantha Wickramasekara, the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha have been remanded until November 13. MORE..
100,000 in Sri Lanka suffer from diabetic ulcers – Health experts
100,000 in Sri Lanka suffer from diabetic ulcers – Health experts
The Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) has revealed that there are currently around 100,000 patients in the country suffering from diabetic ulcers. MORE..
We are reforming education system to reduce unnecessary burdens on students: PM Harini
We are reforming education system to reduce unnecessary burdens on students: PM Harini
Steps are being taken to gradually reform the education system in a way that reduces unnecessary burdens on students while nurturing citizens capable of contributing to a better world, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stated. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s population growing at a slower pace, data suggests
Sri Lanka’s population growing at a slower pace, data suggests
Sri Lanka’s population has been recorded as 21,763,170 with 51.7% females and 48.3% females, according to the 15th Population and Housing Census conducted this year. MORE..
Evidence examination in case against Diana Gamage commences
Evidence examination in case against Diana Gamage commences
The examination of evidence in the case filed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) against former State Minister Diana Gamage, on charges of submitting false information to the Controller of Immigration and Emigration...MORE..
Three-wheelers, school transport services and taxis to be regulated
Three-wheelers, school transport services and taxis to be regulated
Steps are being taken at present to regulate three-wheelers, school transport services and other taxi services, the Chairman of the National Transport Commission (NTC), Eng P.A. Chandrapala stated.MORE..
Five new suspects arrested over Louvre jewellery theft
Five new suspects arrested over Louvre jewellery theft
Five new arrests have been made in the investigation into the Louvre jewellery heist, the prosecutor for Paris has said. MORE..
New Additional Commissioner General appointed to Motor Traffic Department
New Additional Commissioner General appointed to Motor Traffic Department
Senior officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service Tharaka Niroshan Devapriya today assumed duties as the new Additional Commissioner General of the Motor Traffic Department. MORE..
Puma to cut 900 jobs as sales continue to decline
Puma to cut 900 jobs as sales continue to decline
German sportswear maker Puma on Wednesday said that it would cut a further 13% of its workforce globally, equivalent to 900 jobs by the end of 2026, as its sales continued to decline. MORE..
Chinese gym offers Porsche for losing 50kg in 3 months
Chinese gym offers Porsche for losing 50kg in 3 months
A Chinese gym has recently launched a controversial weight-loss challenge, offering a luxury car as a reward to anyone who successfully loses 50kg in three months. MORE..
Drug menace will be defeated and victory is certain – President
Drug menace will be defeated and victory is certain – President
The drug menace must be defeated to ensure social stability in the country and that the steps taken by himself and the government in this regard will undoubtedly lead to victory, according to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. MORE..
Stalemate at Seethawaka Pradeshiya Sabha continues
Stalemate at Seethawaka Pradeshiya Sabha continues
A group of members of the Seethawaka Pradeshiya Sabha has requested the relevant authorities to convene a meeting to establish the authority of the council, which has not been set up for more than three months. MORE..
Over Rs. 1.2 billion owed by doctors who have left public service – National Audit Office
Over Rs. 1.2 billion owed by doctors who have left public service – National Audit Office
The National Audit Office has revealed that the government is owed more than Rs. 1,277 million from medical officers who have left the public service on various grounds. MORE..
Trump says will lower China tariffs by 10% after ‘amazing’ meeting with Xi Jinping
Trump says will lower China tariffs by 10% after ‘amazing’ meeting with Xi Jinping
Calling it an “amazing” meeting that marked a “fantastic new beginning” in US China relations, US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a sweeping set of economic and trade understandings with Chinese President Xi Jinping...MORE..
GMOA to launch island-wide trade union action tomorrow
GMOA to launch island-wide trade union action tomorrow
The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has decided to launch an island-wide trade union action tomorrow (31) in protest against the alleged arbitrary transfer system. MORE..
China says it’s on track to land astronauts on the moon by 2030 ahead of space station mission
China says it’s on track to land astronauts on the moon by 2030 ahead of space station mission
China said Thursday it’s on track to land astronauts on the moon by 2030 as it introduced the next crew of astronauts who will head to its space station as part of the country’s ambitious plans to be a leader in space exploration. MORE..
Liam Hemsworth leads ‘The Witcher’ in season four ‘refresh’
Liam Hemsworth leads ‘The Witcher’ in season four ‘refresh’
Netflix fantasy series “The Witcher” returns to screens after more than two years with a new lead actor and a fresh tone, its makers say. MORE..
GovPay processes over Rs. 500 million in digital payments
GovPay processes over Rs. 500 million in digital payments
GovPay, a secure and user-friendly online platform designed to facilitate digital payments for Sri Lanka’s government services, has successfully processed over Rs. 500 million in transactions, the Ministry of Digital Economy stated. MORE..
Websites disabled in Microsoft global outage come back online
Websites disabled in Microsoft global outage come back online
Websites for Heathrow, NatWest and Minecraft returned to service late on Wednesday after experiencing problems amid a global Microsoft outage. MORE..
‘Hello Kitty’ movie sets July 2028 release date from Warner Bros
‘Hello Kitty’ movie sets July 2028 release date from Warner Bros
After several years in development, Warner Bros. Animation and New Line Cinema are finally moving ahead with the “Hello Kitty” feature film, dating it for July 21, 2028. MORE..
Two suspects partially admit involvement in Louvre heist, prosecutor says
Two suspects partially admit involvement in Louvre heist, prosecutor says
Two men arrested in connection with the Louvre theft two weeks ago have “partially recognised” their involvement in the brazen heist, according to officials. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s elderly population increased to 18%
Sri Lanka’s elderly population increased to 18%
Sri Lanka has been identified as one of the countries in the Asian region with the fastest-growing elderly population, according to health authorities. MORE..
30,000 individuals subjected to inspection during island-wide police operation
30,000 individuals subjected to inspection during island-wide police operation
A total of 796 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in criminal activities and also over illicit liquor and drug-related offenses during a special island-wide operation conducted yesterday (29). MORE..
Hurricane Melissa leaves dozens dead and trail of destruction across Caribbean
Hurricane Melissa leaves dozens dead and trail of destruction across Caribbean
Hurricane Melissa has continued its devastating sweep across the Caribbean, decimating homes and infrastructure, flooding neighbourhoods and leaving dozens dead. MORE..
Navy vessel deployed to rescue fishermen aboard distressed multi-day fishing boat in southeastern seas
Navy vessel deployed to rescue fishermen aboard distressed multi-day fishing boat in southeastern seas
A special vessel belonging to the Sri Lanka Navy has been deployed to carry out rescue operations for fishermen aboard a multi-day fishing vessel that met with an accident in the southeastern sea area of the country. MORE..
Bodies of two unidentified males found in Mattakkuliya
Bodies of two unidentified males found in Mattakkuliya
Bodies of two unidentified males have been discovered following information received by the Mattakkuliya Police Station. MORE..
Donald Trump, Xi Jinping to meet after six years today
Donald Trump, Xi Jinping to meet after six years today
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are set to meet today in Busan on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which is a high-stakes encounter unfolding amid escalating trade frictions and global economic uncertainty. MORE..
Island-wide anti-drug operation to commence today
Island-wide anti-drug operation to commence today
The island-wide anti-drug operation, under the theme “Nation United – National Drive” is scheduled to commence this morning. MORE..
Evening showers expected in parts of the island today
Evening showers expected in parts of the island today
Showers or thundershowers are expected at a few places in the Sabaragamuwa, Central and Uva provinces after 4.00 p.m. today (30), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Nvidia becomes the world’s first $5 trillion company
Nvidia becomes the world’s first $5 trillion company
Nvidia today (29) became the first publicly listed company to be valued at $5 trillion, driven by investor confidence in the growth of artificial intelligence. MORE..
Over 3,200 Sri Lankans departed for employment in South Korea in 2025: SLBFE
Over 3,200 Sri Lankans departed for employment in South Korea in 2025: SLBFE
A total of 3,253 Sri Lankans have departed for employment in South Korea during the first ten months of 2025, according to the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE). MORE..
Sri Lanka and Pakistan to explore cooperation in marine tourism
Sri Lanka and Pakistan to explore cooperation in marine tourism
Sri Lanka and Pakistan have agreed to explore joint initiatives in marine and coastal tourism to boost the blue economy, create jobs and strengthen regional connectivity through sustainable ocean-based development. MORE..
UN chief ‘gravely concerned’ about ‘widespread devastation’ from Hurricane Melissa
UN chief ‘gravely concerned’ about ‘widespread devastation’ from Hurricane Melissa
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday expressed deep concern about Hurricane Melissa’s “widespread devastation” in the Caribbean, pledging full support to affected nations. MORE..
Arrest warrant issued for NPP MP Jagath Manuwarna
Arrest warrant issued for NPP MP Jagath Manuwarna
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of National People’s Power Member of Parliament Jagath Manuwarna by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Seven arrested over running a pyramid scheme further remanded
Seven arrested over running a pyramid scheme further remanded
Seven individuals who have been in remand custody on several charges, including operating a pyramid scheme, have been further remanded until November 4, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 104, health ministry says
Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 104, health ministry says
At least 104 Palestinians were killed in a wave of Israeli strikes in Gaza on Tuesday night, the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry says. MORE..
Piyal Manamperi further remanded till November 12
Piyal Manamperi further remanded till November 12
Former Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Angunukolapelessa Pradeshiya Sabha member Piyal Manamperi who was arrested in connection with the recent recovery of chemicals allegedly used to manufacture ‘Ice’ in Middeniya has been further remanded, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Meeting held to review release of private lands in Jaffna to rightful owners
Meeting held to review release of private lands in Jaffna to rightful owners
A high-level meeting has been convened at the office of the Deputy Minister of Defence in Colombo to review progress and address ongoing challenges related to the release of private lands situated within the Jaffna-Palali area to their rightful owners. MORE..
All Indian visa and consular services to be directly handled by Indian High Commission from Nov. 3
All Indian visa and consular services to be directly handled by Indian High Commission from Nov. 3
All visa, passport and consular related services will be handled directly by the High Commission of India, Colombo, the Assistant High Commission in Kandy and the Consulate General in Jaffna with effect from November 03, 2025. MORE..
National Commission on Women to address issues affecting women
National Commission on Women to address issues affecting women
The government is focused on establishing a National Commission on Women to address issues affecting women, the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs has stated. MORE..
Firearm found at Mount Lavinia Court premises
Firearm found at Mount Lavinia Court premises
A pistol-type firearm has been found within the premises of the Mount Lavinia Court Complex. MORE..
Court office assistant arrested for accepting Rs. 10,000 bribe
Court office assistant arrested for accepting Rs. 10,000 bribe
A court office assistant has been arrested on charges of soliciting a bribe of Rs. 10,000 in order to provide a certified copy of a case report to an individual. MORE..
Opposition requests Speaker to summon IGP to parliament over MPs’ security
Opposition requests Speaker to summon IGP to parliament over MPs’ security
A group of opposition members of Parliament has requested Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne to summon Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya to Parliament for a discussion regarding the security of MPs. MORE..
Hurricane Melissa hits Cuba hours after devastating Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa hits Cuba hours after devastating Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa slammed into Cuba early on Wednesday, hours after causing devastation in neighbouring Jamaica as the strongest-ever storm on record to hit that Caribbean island nation. MORE..
Hearing of case against ex-President Ranil postponed to January 2026
Hearing of case against ex-President Ranil postponed to January 2026
The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (29) postponed the hearing of the case filed under the Public Property Act against former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, until January 28, 2026, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
China ready to work closely with Sri Lanka to implement development strategies – Ambassador
China ready to work closely with Sri Lanka to implement development strategies – Ambassador
China is ready to join hands with Sri Lanka on a strong journey towards development, said the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong. MORE..
Hearing of case against Yoshitha and his grandmother postponed to December
Hearing of case against Yoshitha and his grandmother postponed to December
The Colombo High Court has postponed the hearing of the case filed against Yoshitha Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, and his grandmother Daisy Forest, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, until December 10. MORE..
Aswesuma beneficiaries requested to promptly open bank accounts
Aswesuma beneficiaries requested to promptly open bank accounts
The Welfare Benefits Board has requested all ‘Aswesuma’ Phase 2 beneficiaries to promptly open bank accounts to receive the assistance. MORE..
Droupadi Murmu becomes first Indian President to fly in Rafale from key Operation Sindoor base
Droupadi Murmu becomes first Indian President to fly in Rafale from key Operation Sindoor base
Indian President Droupadi Murmu has taken off from the Ambala Air Force Base in Haryana for a sortie in a Rafale fighter jet that recently made its war debut. MORE..
Three Sri Lankans deported from India arrested at BIA
Three Sri Lankans deported from India arrested at BIA
Three Sri Lankan nationals allegedly involved in criminal activities, who were deported from India, have been arrested by the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) upon their arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). MORE..
Former President Ranil arrives at Fort Magistrate’s Court
Former President Ranil arrives at Fort Magistrate’s Court
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has arrived at the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court a short while ago, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
IGP files complaint with CID against a high-ranking police officer
IGP files complaint with CID against a high-ranking police officer
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya has lodged a complaint with the National Police Commission and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) against a Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG). MORE..
3 army personnel injured in grenade explosion during training exercise
3 army personnel injured in grenade explosion during training exercise
Three army personnel have been injured and hospitalized following a hand grenade explosion during a training exercise at the Sri Lanka Army Training School in Maduru Oya. MORE..
Nvidia’s stock market value nears record $5 trillion
Nvidia’s stock market value nears record $5 trillion
Nvidia was on the verge of becoming the first company worth $5 trillion on Tuesday after the heavyweight chipmaker said it had $500 billion in bookings for its artificial intelligence processors and that it will build seven new supercomputers for the U.S. Department of Energy. MORE..
Huge Brazilian raid on Rio gang leaves at least 64 people dead and 81 under arrest
Huge Brazilian raid on Rio gang leaves at least 64 people dead and 81 under arrest
About 2,500 Brazilian police and soldiers launched a massive raid on a drug-trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, arresting 81 suspects and sparking shootouts that left at least 60 suspects and four police officers dead, officials said. MORE..
22-carat gold sovereign price drops by Rs. 2000
22-carat gold sovereign price drops by Rs. 2000
The price of gold in Sri Lanka has declined by around Rs. 2,000 today (29) in comparison to yesterday (28). MORE..
Hong Kong’s ‘King of Supporting Actors’ Benz Hui dies aged 76
Hong Kong’s ‘King of Supporting Actors’ Benz Hui dies aged 76
Benz Hui, a veteran Hong Kong performer known as the “King of Supporting Actors” during his five-decade career, has died at the age of 76. MORE..
South Korea to award Trump its highest medal, gift him a golden crown
South Korea to award Trump its highest medal, gift him a golden crown
South Korea will welcome U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday with a replica gold crown and award him with the “Grand Order of Mugunghwa”, the country’s highest decoration, the presidential office said. MORE..
Online payment of traffic spot fines to begin in December
Online payment of traffic spot fines to begin in December
Measures to allow online payment of traffic spot fines issued by the Police across the country will take effect from December, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala stated. MORE..
2 dead after consuming contents of a bottle floating on the sea
2 dead after consuming contents of a bottle floating on the sea
One person from a group of four has reportedly died at a fishing wadiya in Narakkaliya, Puttalam, after consuming contents of a bottle found floating on the sea, while another succumbed to the effects at Puttalam Hospital. MORE..
Detention order on female lawyer arrested over Ganemulla Sanjeewa murder case
Detention order on female lawyer arrested over Ganemulla Sanjeewa murder case
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has obtained a 72-hour detention order to detain and interrogate the female lawyer who allegedly provided a copy of the Penal Code to ‘Ishara Sewwandi,’ a suspect in the murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa,’ police said. MORE..
Fire breaks out in Narahenpita apartment complex
Fire breaks out in Narahenpita apartment complex
A fire has reportedly broken out on the fifth floor of an apartment complex located at Dabare Mawatha, Narahenpita. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s economy expected to grow by 3.1% in 2026 – IMF
Sri Lanka’s economy expected to grow by 3.1% in 2026 – IMF
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Sri Lanka’s economy will grow by 3.1% in 2026. MORE..
Cyclone Montha slams India’s southern coast
Cyclone Montha slams India’s southern coast
Heavy rain and gusty winds lashed India’s southern coast as Cyclone Montha started to make landfall on Tuesday (Oct 28), officials said, disrupting flights and triggering waterlogging in low-lying areas. MORE..
Suspect arrested over attack on Baddegama PS deputy chairman remanded
Suspect arrested over attack on Baddegama PS deputy chairman remanded
The suspect arrested in connection with the attack on the Deputy Chairman of the Baddegama Pradeshiya Sabha, Saman C. Liyanage, has been remanded until 31 October, 2025. MORE..
Case against former President Ranil to be reconsidered today
Case against former President Ranil to be reconsidered today
The legal case filed against former President Ranil Wickremesinghe under the Public Property Act is scheduled to be taken up for consideration again today (29) at the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Israeli planes strike Gaza City after Netanyahu orders ‘powerful attacks’
Israeli planes strike Gaza City after Netanyahu orders ‘powerful attacks’
Israeli planes launched strikes on Gaza City on Tuesday (Oct 28) after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the militant group Hamas of violating a ceasefire in the Palestinian territory and ordered the military to carry out “powerful attacks”. MORE..
Few showers expected in parts of the island today
Few showers expected in parts of the island today
A few showers may occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern and North-western provinces, today (29), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Female lawyer arrested for aiding murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’
Female lawyer arrested for aiding murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’
A female lawyer from the Kadawatha area has been arrested for allegedly for providing a copy of the Penal Code for Ishara Sewwandi to conceal the pistol used in the killing of underworld figure Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne alias ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’, police said. MORE..
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu orders military to immediately carry out strikes in Gaza
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu orders military to immediately carry out strikes in Gaza
Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his military to immediately carry out strikes in Gaza. MORE..
Case against Ranil to be taken up tomorrow
Case against Ranil to be taken up tomorrow
The legal case filed against former President Ranil Wickremesinghe is scheduled to be taken up before court tomorrow (29). MORE..
Tourist plane crash in Kenya kills 11 on board
Tourist plane crash in Kenya kills 11 on board
A plane crash near Kenya’s coast has killed 10 European tourists and a local pilot, officials have said. MORE..
Over 230,000 school children in Colombo District addicted to drugs – prisons official
Over 230,000 school children in Colombo District addicted to drugs – prisons official
Over 230,000 school children within the Colombo District alone are addicted to drugs, claims Prisons Commissioner and Prisons Media Spokesman Jagath Weerasinghe. MORE..
‘Absolutely no truth’: Hizbullah denies Ghana gold scam reports
‘Absolutely no truth’: Hizbullah denies Ghana gold scam reports
SLMC Member of Parliament M.L.A.M. Hizbullah has rejected media reports claiming that he was deceived in a gold business deal in Ghana, as reported by certain Ghanaian media. MORE..
Sri Lankan passenger arrested at BIA with over 2.5kg Kush cannabis
Sri Lankan passenger arrested at BIA with over 2.5kg Kush cannabis
A 29-year-old Sri Lankan national residing in Grandpass, Colombo, has been arrested upon his arrival from Bangkok, Thailand, by officers attached to the Narcotics Control Unit of Sri Lanka Customs at the BIA for attempting to smuggle 2,523 grams of Kush cannabis into the country. MORE..
New National Intelligence Chief assumes duties
New National Intelligence Chief assumes duties
Major General (Retd) Nalinda Niyangoda, who was appointed as the new Chief of National Intelligence, has officially assumed duties today (28) at the Ministry of Defence in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte. MORE..
Three suspects remanded over killing of Weligama PS chairman
Three suspects remanded over killing of Weligama PS chairman
Three suspects arrested in connection with the killing of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara have been remanded until October 30. MORE..
New regulations on drug testing for motorists to be presented to Parliament for approval
New regulations on drug testing for motorists to be presented to Parliament for approval
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal to submit the Motor Vehicles (Drugs) Directive No. 1 of 2025 to Parliament for approval. MORE..
Cabinet nod to present in Parliament amended regulations on vehicle seat belts
Cabinet nod to present in Parliament amended regulations on vehicle seat belts
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal to present in Parliament the amended regulations pertaining to seatbelt regulations for vehicles using expressways. MORE..
Nine suspects arrested so far over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder: Police
Nine suspects arrested so far over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder: Police
Nine suspects including the suspected gunman have been arrested thus far in connection with the recent shooting and killing of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara at his office, police stated. MORE..
Govt to call for comprehensive report on 2,972 state buildings
Govt to call for comprehensive report on 2,972 state buildings
The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for a comprehensive program aimed at the productive use of government-owned buildings that are currently abandoned, underutilized, or partially constructed. MORE..
Govt to establish four high courts in Colombo 7
Govt to establish four high courts in Colombo 7
The government has decided to establish four high courts in Colombo 7 with immediate effect. MORE..
Cabinet approves proposal to fill 8,547 vacancies in various institutions
Cabinet approves proposal to fill 8,547 vacancies in various institutions
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to commence the recruitment process to fill 8,547 vacancies in various departments and state institutions. MORE..
Gunman involved in three murders arrested in Anuradhapura
Gunman involved in three murders arrested in Anuradhapura
A gunman allegedly involved in three murders and two others have been apprehended while in possession 106 grams of heroin, in Anuradhapura. MORE..
UN Security Council ‘paralysed’ by divisions among superpowers, says Guterres
UN Security Council ‘paralysed’ by divisions among superpowers, says Guterres
The United Nations Security Council, whose members often hold conflicting views, has become “ineffective” in addressing many of the world’s crises, said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. MORE..
Global fashion brand Michael Kors commits US$ 2.7 million to WFP initiatives in Sri Lanka
Global fashion brand Michael Kors commits US$ 2.7 million to WFP initiatives in Sri Lanka
United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution of US $2.7 million from global fashion brand, Michael Kors to bolster Sri Lanka’s National School Meals Programme. MORE..
Edelweiss Air inaugurates seasonal flights between Zurich and Colombo
Edelweiss Air inaugurates seasonal flights between Zurich and Colombo
Edelweiss Air — a member of the Lufthansa Group — operated its inaugural seasonal flight from Zurich, Switzerland to the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake this morning (28), with the onset of the winter travel season. MORE..
Speaker, Ministers meet Sri Lankan community in UK
Speaker, Ministers meet Sri Lankan community in UK
A group of Ministers along with the Speaker of House, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne have undertaken a visit to the UK on an invitation extended by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy. MORE..
Amber weather advisory issued for strong winds in several provinces
Amber weather advisory issued for strong winds in several provinces
An ‘Amber’ weather advisory has been issued for strong winds for the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and the Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts by the Department of Meteorology. MORE..
Parliamentary staff promotions, salary increments and recruitments under new method?
Parliamentary staff promotions, salary increments and recruitments under new method?
The preliminary work related to the restructuring of the administrative framework of Parliament has been completed. MORE..
22-carat gold sovereign price drops below Rs. 300,000
22-carat gold sovereign price drops below Rs. 300,000
The price of gold in Sri Lanka has recorded a significant decline owing to various factors including a sharp drop in prices in the world market. MORE..
Locally produced tiles will be available at subsidised price soon: Minister
Locally produced tiles will be available at subsidised price soon: Minister
Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi has expressed hopes of providing locally produced tiles to the public at a subsidised price in the near future. MORE..
SC sets date to hear appeals of Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando
SC sets date to hear appeals of Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando
The Supreme Court today scheduled a date to hear the appeals filed against the sentences imposed on former Ministers Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando, who were convicted and sentenced by the Colombo High Court three-judge bench in connection with a corruption charge. MORE..
Malaysian coast guard ship ‘KM BENDAHARA’ arrives in Colombo
Malaysian coast guard ship ‘KM BENDAHARA’ arrives in Colombo
The Malaysian Coast Guard Ship ‘KM BENDAHARA’ has arrived at the Port of Colombo. MORE..
NCPA receives 414 complaints on child sexual abuse incidents in first 9 months of 2025
NCPA receives 414 complaints on child sexual abuse incidents in first 9 months of 2025
A total of 414 complaints in relation to sexual abuse of children have been lodged with the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) during the first nine months of this year. MORE..
Gold and silver prices slide, but analysts still see upside ahead
Gold and silver prices slide, but analysts still see upside ahead
Gold and silver prices are expected to continue rising in the long term, analysts said, maintaining optimistic forecasts for the precious metals despite recent volatility. MORE..
Belavia flight to land at Mattala today with Belarusian tourists
Belavia flight to land at Mattala today with Belarusian tourists
A Belavia Airlines plane from Belarus is scheduled to land at the Mattala International Airport this afternoon (28), marking its inaugural arrival at the airport. MORE..
Two new Deputy Central Bank Governors appointed
Two new Deputy Central Bank Governors appointed
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed two new Deputy Governors to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), in terms of the provisions in the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act, No. 16 of 2023. MORE..
Sri Lanka, India discuss new ferry route between Talaimannar and Rameswaram
Sri Lanka, India discuss new ferry route between Talaimannar and Rameswaram
A discussion has been held on the possibility of expanding India-Sri Lanka maritime connectivity by launching a new route between Rameswaram and Talaimannar. MORE..
Amazon targets as many as 30,000 corporate job cuts, sources say
Amazon targets as many as 30,000 corporate job cuts, sources say
Amazon is planning to cut as many as 30,000 corporate jobs beginning on Tuesday (Oct 28), as the company pares expenses and compensates for overhiring during the peak demand of the pandemic, according to three people familiar with the matter. MORE..
Donald Trump says he “would love to” run for third Presidential term
Donald Trump says he “would love to” run for third Presidential term
US President Donald Trump has kept the possibility of running for a third presidential term in 2028 open. MORE..
Cyclonic storm ‘Montha’ to bring strong winds and heavy showers
Cyclonic storm ‘Montha’ to bring strong winds and heavy showers
The Cyclonic storm ‘Montha’ over the Bay of Bengal to the northeast of Sri Lanka was about 650 km northeast of Mullaitivu at around 2.30 am today (28), the Department of Meteorology stated. MORE..
Gazette issued revising excise tax payment regulations for liquor production
Gazette issued revising excise tax payment regulations for liquor production
A gazette notification has been issued amending the procedures and deadlines related to the payment of excise taxes and fees on liquor production. MORE..
Hurricane Melissa: Jamaica braces for world’s strongest storm of 2025
Hurricane Melissa: Jamaica braces for world’s strongest storm of 2025
Jamaica is bracing for the strongest storm of the year, with US meteorologists warning of “catastrophic and life-threatening winds, flooding, and storm surge”. MORE..
21-year-old Canadian arrested at BIA with Rs. 182 million worth of hashish
21-year-old Canadian arrested at BIA with Rs. 182 million worth of hashish
A Canadian national has been arrested while attempting to smuggle a stock of hashish valued at Rs. 182.5 million through the ‘Green Channel’ at the Bandaranaike International Airport, earlier today. MORE..
Wild elephant killed after being hit by freight train
Wild elephant killed after being hit by freight train
A wild elephant was killed after being hit by a freight train at around 8:45 p.m. yesterday (27). MORE..
Sri Lanka team which secured second place at South Asian Athletics Championship returns to the island
Sri Lanka team which secured second place at South Asian Athletics Championship returns to the island
The Sri Lankan athletics team which secured second place at the fourth South Asian Senior Athletics Championship held in India, arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport this morning. MORE..
Showers expected in several provinces today
Showers expected in several provinces today
Several spells of showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western Provinces today, the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Weligama PS chairman murder: 72-hour detention orders obtained on 6 suspects
Weligama PS chairman murder: 72-hour detention orders obtained on 6 suspects
Sri Lanka Police has been allowed to detain for 72 hours the six suspects, including the suspected gunman and the motorcycle rider arrested over the killing of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickremasekara, for further questioning. MORE..
Ghana court grants bail to 11 accused of defrauding Sri Lankan MP in $2 million ‘gold scam’ - report
Ghana court grants bail to 11 accused of defrauding Sri Lankan MP in $2 million ‘gold scam’ - report
The Accra Circuit Court Eight has granted bail to eleven persons accused of defrauding a Sri Lankan Member of Parliament of USD2 million under the pretext of supplying gold, according to Ghanian media reports. MORE..
World’s oldest president, Cameroon’s Paul Biya, wins re-election at 92
World’s oldest president, Cameroon’s Paul Biya, wins re-election at 92
Cameroon’s top court on Monday declared incumbent Paul Biya, the world’s oldest president, the winner of the Oct. 12 election. Clashes with security forces left at least four protesters dead ahead of the announcement as opposition supporters rallied to demand credible results. MORE..
Woman murders 3-year-old son before taking own life
Woman murders 3-year-old son before taking own life
A woman has reportedly murdered her own child and then committed suicide by hanging herself in the Kahatapitiya area of Batapola. MORE..
Trump gets royal welcome in Japan, China trade truce hopes rise
Trump gets royal welcome in Japan, China trade truce hopes rise
U.S. President Donald Trump received a royal welcome on Monday in Japan, the latest leg of a five-day Asia trip which he hopes to cap with an agreement on a trade war truce with Chinese President Xi Jinping. MORE..
Suspected shooter in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder produced before JMO
Suspected shooter in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder produced before JMO
The suspected shooter in connection with the murder of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara, who was arrested in Nawinna last evening (26), has been produced before the Colombo Judicial Medical Officer this afternoon (27). MORE..
Hand grenade found in front of house in Wellampitiya
Hand grenade found in front of house in Wellampitiya
A hand grenade has been discovered in the road in front of house at a housing complex located on Donald Perera Mawatha in Wellampitiya. MORE..
Sri Lanka and Australia sign bilateral debt restructuring agreements
Sri Lanka and Australia sign bilateral debt restructuring agreements
The Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Australia have entered into bilateral agreements on external debt restructuring, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to restore debt sustainability and revamp its economy. MORE..
Kuwait Airways resumes direct flights to Sri Lanka
Kuwait Airways resumes direct flights to Sri Lanka
Kuwait Airways on Monday launched direct flights to Colombo after two years of codeshare operations. MORE..
Argentina’s midterm election hands decisive win to Milei’s libertarian overhaul
Argentina’s midterm election hands decisive win to Milei’s libertarian overhaul
Argentine President Javier Milei’s party cruised to victory in midterm legislative elections as voters handed him a mandate to keep pushing through his radical overhaul of the economy despite widespread discontent with his deep austerity measures. MORE..
India evacuates tens of thousands as cyclone Montha gains strength
India evacuates tens of thousands as cyclone Montha gains strength
India moved 50,000 people to relief camps on Monday (Oct 27) as it began evacuations a day before Cyclone Montha, intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, is set to bring strong winds and heavy rains to its east coast, officials said. MORE..
Steps will be taken to grant voting rights to Sri Lankans working abroad: FM
Steps will be taken to grant voting rights to Sri Lankans working abroad: FM
Steps will be taken in the future to grant voting rights to Sri Lankans working abroad, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath has stated. MORE..
Jaffna named one of the best places to visit in 2026 by Lonely Planet
Jaffna named one of the best places to visit in 2026 by Lonely Planet
Jaffna has been named as one of the Top 25 Best Places to Visit in the World for 2026, by global travel publication Lonely Planet. MORE..
Ukraine targets Moscow with dozens of drones, Russia says
Ukraine targets Moscow with dozens of drones, Russia says
Russian air defences shot down dozens of Ukrainian drones heading to Moscow and downed nearly 160 more over other regions in attacks that killed at least one and injured five others, Russian officials said on Monday. MORE..
Special project to reduce landslides along Bibile -Passara road launched
Special project to reduce landslides along Bibile -Passara road launched
The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has announced a joint programme with the Road Development Authority (RDA) to launch a specialized project aimed at mitigating landslide risks along the Bibile -Passara road. MORE..
Man arrested with over 196kg of Kerala cannabis in Dompe
Man arrested with over 196kg of Kerala cannabis in Dompe
An individual has been arrested with a stock of Kerala cannabis during a special raid conducted by a team of officers from the Police Special Task Force (STF). MORE..
India resumes direct flights to Chinese mainland after 5 years
India resumes direct flights to Chinese mainland after 5 years
India on Sunday night resumed direct flights to the Chinese mainland after a five-year hiatus, Indian officials said. MORE..
Amber weather advisory issued for strong winds in several provinces
Amber weather advisory issued for strong winds in several provinces
An ‘Amber’ weather advisory has been issued for strong winds for the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and the Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts by the Department of Meteorology. MORE..
Rumesh Tharanga named Best Male Athlete at South Asian Athletics Championships
Rumesh Tharanga named Best Male Athlete at South Asian Athletics Championships
Sri Lanka’s javelin champion Rumesh Tharanga has been adjudged the Best Male Athlete at the fourth South Asian Athletics Championships held in Ranchi, India. MORE..
Nepal’s PM names popular volunteer, doctor to cabinet
Nepal’s PM names popular volunteer, doctor to cabinet
Nepal’s Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Sunday expanded her interim cabinet which was formed in the wake of a youth-led uprising last month, inducting two ministers seen as popular among young people. MORE..
Police sergeant dies in road accident in Wellawaya
Police sergeant dies in road accident in Wellawaya
An individual has died in a road accident that occurred along the Wellawaya- Thanamalwila main road in Adawelayaya, Wellawaya. MORE..
Nearly 30,000 individuals inspected during special police operation
Nearly 30,000 individuals inspected during special police operation
A total of 781 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in criminal activities and also over illicit liquor and drug-related offenses during a special island-wide operation conducted yesterday (26). MORE..
3,500MT of ‘Ponni Samba’ rice imported to Sri Lanka
3,500MT of ‘Ponni Samba’ rice imported to Sri Lanka
A total of 3,500 metric tons of ‘Ponni Samba’ rice have been imported into the country, Sri Lanka Customs has stated. MORE..
Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau make public appearance together
Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau make public appearance together
Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau have made their first public appearance as a couple. MORE..
Australia sues Microsoft over AI-linked subscription price hikes
Australia sues Microsoft over AI-linked subscription price hikes
Australia’s competition regulator on Monday sued Microsoft, accusing it of misleading millions of customers into paying higher prices for its Microsoft 365 software after bundling it with artificial intelligence tool Copilot. MORE..
Major US airports face ground stops and flight delays amid ongoing government shutdown
Major US airports face ground stops and flight delays amid ongoing government shutdown
Major airports across the US issued ground stops or delays Sunday amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. MORE..
Cyclone Montha to make landfall in India tomorrow
Cyclone Montha to make landfall in India tomorrow
Cyclone Montha, which is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm later today, is expected to make landfall on the coast of Andhra Pradesh, India with wind speeds touching 90-100 km/hour. MORE..
Island-wide anti-drug operation to commence this week
Island-wide anti-drug operation to commence this week
The island-wide anti-drug operation is scheduled to commence on Thursday, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala has stated. MORE..
Indian national arrested at BIA with nearly 3kg of heroin
Indian national arrested at BIA with nearly 3kg of heroin
A foreign passenger who arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport carrying a stock of heroin valued at Rs. 34 million, has been arrested. MORE..
Several spells of showers expected today
Several spells of showers expected today
Several spells of showers will occur in the Northern, North-central, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in the Galle and Matara districts today (27), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Sri Lanka finish second at South Asian Athletics Championships
Sri Lanka finish second at South Asian Athletics Championships
Sri Lanka finished second at the fourth South Asian Senior Athletics Championships held in Ranchi India. MORE..
Sri Lanka secures silver in Boys’ Medley Relay event at Asian Youth Games
Sri Lanka secures silver in Boys’ Medley Relay event at Asian Youth Games
Sri Lanka secured the silver medal in the Boys’ Medley Relay event at the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain today. MORE..
Suspects arrested over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder handed over to FCID
Suspects arrested over Weligama PS Chairman’s murder handed over to FCID
The suspected gunman and several others arrested in relation to the murder of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara have been handed over to the Financial Crimes Investigation Division, police stated.
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Sri Lanka secures gold in Men’s 4x400m relay
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Sri Lanka secures gold in Men’s 4x400m relay
Sri Lanka won the gold medal in the Men’s 4x400m relay event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi. MORE..
2025 Asia Youth Games: Dilni Rajapaksha wins Bronze in Girl’s Triple Jump event
2025 Asia Youth Games: Dilni Rajapaksha wins Bronze in Girl’s Triple Jump event
Sri Lanka’s Dilni Rajapaksha won the bronze in the Girl’s Triple Jump event at the third Asia Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain. MORE..
US and China agree on trade framework ahead of leaders’ meeting
US and China agree on trade framework ahead of leaders’ meeting
Top Chinese and US economic officials agreed on the framework for a trade agreement on Sunday (Oct 26) as US President Donald Trump said he was confident of hashing out a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping when they meet in the coming days. MORE..
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Safiya Yamic claims third gold by winning Women’s 200m event
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Safiya Yamic claims third gold by winning Women’s 200m event
Sri Lanka’s speed sensation Safiya Yamic re-wrote record books and won the gold medal in the Women’s 200m event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi, a short while ago. MORE..
Methmi Wijesuriya wins 10,000m gold for Sri Lanka in Ranchi
Methmi Wijesuriya wins 10,000m gold for Sri Lanka in Ranchi
The national record holder Methmi Rasara Wijesuriya won the gold medal in the Women’s 10,000m event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi, a short while ago. MORE..
17,000 children living under highly vulnerable conditions: Public Security Minister
17,000 children living under highly vulnerable conditions: Public Security Minister
Around 17,000 children living under highly vulnerable conditions have been identified, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala stated. MORE..
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Madushani Herath wins gold in Women’s Long Jump in Ranchi
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Madushani Herath wins gold in Women’s Long Jump in Ranchi
Sri Lanka’s Madushani Herath won the gold medal in the Women’s Long Jump at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi. MORE..
Suspected gunman in murder of Weligama PS Chairman arrested
Suspected gunman in murder of Weligama PS Chairman arrested
A man suspected to be the gunman in the murder of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara has been arrested. MORE..
Russia says it has tested nuclear-powered Burevestnik missile
Russia says it has tested nuclear-powered Burevestnik missile
Russia has tested the nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile, Moscow’s top general has said. MORE..
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Dilhani Lekamge wins gold in Women’s javelin throw
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Dilhani Lekamge wins gold in Women’s javelin throw
Sri Lanka’s Dilhani Lekamge claimed the gold medal in the Women’s javelin throw event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi.
Two more suspects involved in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder arrested
Two more suspects involved in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder arrested
Two more suspects allegedly involved in the killing of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara have been arrested in Galle. MORE..
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Harsha Karunarathne wins gold in Men’s 800m in Ranchi
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Harsha Karunarathne wins gold in Men’s 800m in Ranchi
Sri Lanka’s Harsha Karunarathne won the gold medal in the Men’s 800m event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi.
New info uncovered regarding van driver arrested for driving without obeying police orders in Ratmalana
New info uncovered regarding van driver arrested for driving without obeying police orders in Ratmalana
Police have uncovered several information regarding the driver of the van who was arrested yesterday (25) in Ratmalana for driving without obeying police orders. MORE..
Rumesh Tharanga claims gold in Men’s javelin throw at South Asian Athletics C’ships
Rumesh Tharanga claims gold in Men’s javelin throw at South Asian Athletics C’ships
Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga claimed the gold medal in the Men’s javelin throw event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi. MORE..
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Dasuni Kaushalya wins gold in Women’s 400m Hurdles in Ranchi
South Asian Athletics C’ships: Dasuni Kaushalya wins gold in Women’s 400m Hurdles in Ranchi
Sri Lanka’s Dasuni Kaushalya won the gold medal in the Women’s 400m Hurdles event at the South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi.
Saudi national arrested over alleged assault on flight attendants
Saudi national arrested over alleged assault on flight attendants
A Saudi Arabian national has been arrested by the Katunayake Airport Police in connection with an incident in which two SriLankan Airlines flight attendants were assaulted onboard an aircraft. MORE..
Israeli military says it conducted ‘targeted strike’ in central Gaza
Israeli military says it conducted ‘targeted strike’ in central Gaza
Israeli forces carried out a “targeted strike” on an individual in central Gaza who was planning to attack Israeli troops, Israel’s military said on Saturday (Oct 25). MORE..
Bollywood actor Satish Shah passes away aged 74
Bollywood actor Satish Shah passes away aged 74
Veteran actor Satish Shah, who is known for his comic roles in shows ‘Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi’ and ‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’, passed away due to Kidney failure. MORE..
Navy rescues crew from distressed Merchant Vessel MV Integrity Star
Navy rescues crew from distressed Merchant Vessel MV Integrity Star
The crew of the Merchant Vessel MV Integrity Star which was in distress due to the failure in the main engines approximately 100 nautical miles south of Sri Lanka have been rescued by the Sri Lanka Navy. MORE..
Over 30,000 in 18 districts affected by adverse weather
Over 30,000 in 18 districts affected by adverse weather
A total of 31,623 individuals from 7,944 families in 18 districts have been affected by prevailing adverse weather conditions in the country. MORE..
Indian visitors continue to dominate tourist arrival figures
Indian visitors continue to dominate tourist arrival figures
A total of 35,090 Indian nationals have arrived in the country thus far in the month of October, data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) shows. MORE..
Another individual linked to Weligama PS Chairman’s murder arrested
Another individual linked to Weligama PS Chairman’s murder arrested
Another individual who allegedly aided and abetted in the killing of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara, has been arrested in Galle, police stated. MORE..
Two arrested over theft of jewels at Louvre, French media report
Two arrested over theft of jewels at Louvre, French media report
Two arrested over theft of precious jewels from Louvre museum in Paris, French media say. MORE..
India–Sri Lanka ferry service temporarily suspended
India–Sri Lanka ferry service temporarily suspended
The international ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai, Sri Lanka, has been suspended with the onset of the northeast monsoon. Operations will resume in December. MORE..
India and China to resume direct flights as ties improve
India and China to resume direct flights as ties improve
India and China resume direct flights on Sunday (Oct 26) after a five-year suspension, a move important both for trade and a symbolic step as Asia’s giants cautiously rebuild relations. MORE..
Nearly 28,000 individuals subjected to inspection during special police operation
Nearly 28,000 individuals subjected to inspection during special police operation
A total of 743 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in criminal activities and also over illicit liquor and drug-related offenses during a special island-wide operation conducted yesterday (25). MORE..
Police seek public assistance to arrest suspect in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder
Police seek public assistance to arrest suspect in Weligama PS Chairman’s murder
Sri Lanka Police are seeking public assistance to arrest a suspect wanted in connection with the murder of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman, Lasantha Wickramasekera. MORE..
Cache of ammunition found in Kanadara Oya
Cache of ammunition found in Kanadara Oya
Police have recovered a stock of live ammunition used in T-56 assault rifles, along with two magazines, from the Wahamalgollewa area in Medawachchiya. MORE..
Thai, Cambodia leaders sign expanded ceasefire deal with Trump present
Thai, Cambodia leaders sign expanded ceasefire deal with Trump present
The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia signed an enhanced ceasefire deal on Sunday in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, who intervened in July to bring an end to their deadly five-day border conflict. MORE..
Sri Lanka leads South Asia in AI job growth, ranks second in ChatGPT usage: World Bank
Sri Lanka leads South Asia in AI job growth, ranks second in ChatGPT usage: World Bank
Sri Lanka has emerged as one of South Asia’s most AI-exposed economies, with strong growth in artificial intelligence–related jobs but also mounting risks of job displacement, according to the World Bank’s South Asia Development Update: Jobs, AI, and Trade (October 2025). MORE..
Sri Lanka leads South Asia in AI job growth, ranks second in ChatGPT usage: World Bank
Sri Lanka leads South Asia in AI job growth, ranks second in ChatGPT usage: World Bank
Sri Lanka has emerged as one of South Asia’s most AI-exposed economies, with strong growth in artificial intelligence–related jobs but also mounting risks of job displacement, according to the World Bank’s South Asia Development Update: Jobs, AI, and Trade (October 2025). MORE..
Three arrested over murder of Weligama PS Chairman
Three arrested over murder of Weligama PS Chairman
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has arrested three individuals today in connection with the recent murder of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekera. MORE..
Trump arrives in Malaysia for ASEAN Summit, thanks PM Ibrahim to end Cambodia-Thailand conflict
Trump arrives in Malaysia for ASEAN Summit, thanks PM Ibrahim to end Cambodia-Thailand conflict
US President Donald Trump arrived in Malaysia on Saturday, beginning the first of three stops on the first Asia trip of his second term. MORE..
Over 29,000 people affected as heavy rains continue nationwide
Over 29,000 people affected as heavy rains continue nationwide
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reports that adverse weather conditions prevailing over the past few days have affected 18 districts across the island. MORE..
Trump sets 10% hike in tariffs on Canada after ad airs during World Series
Trump sets 10% hike in tariffs on Canada after ad airs during World Series
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday he was increasing tariffs on Canada by an additional 10% “above what they’re paying now,” as he reacted again to an ad by Canada’s Ontario province, a day after it was aired during the World Series broadcast. MORE..
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
The Meteorology Department states that showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern and North-Central Provinces and in the Trincomalee and Batticaloa Districts. MORE..
China reports magnitude 5.5 earthquake in province near N. Korea
China reports magnitude 5.5 earthquake in province near N. Korea
China on Saturday reported a magnitude 5.5 earthquake in Jilin, a province that shares a border with North Korea, the official Xinhua news agency reported. MORE..
Police fire at van near checkpoint in Ratmalana, driver arrested
Police fire at van near checkpoint in Ratmalana, driver arrested
Police officers engaged in duties at a routine police checkpoint near the Golumadama Junction in Ratmalana have given chase and opened fire at a vehicle that failed to comply with instruction to stop. MORE..
Sri Lanka men and women storm to 4x100m relay gold in Ranchi
Sri Lanka men and women storm to 4x100m relay gold in Ranchi
Sri Lanka dominated the relays at the 4th South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025 in Ranchi, India winning gold in both the Men’s and Women’s 4x100m relay events. MORE..
Gazette issued regarding release of vehicles stuck in customs
Gazette issued regarding release of vehicles stuck in customs
A Gazette notification has been issued stipulating regulations for the release of vehicles held by Sri Lanka Customs. MORE..
Three more medals for Sri Lanka at South Asian Athletics Championships 2025
Three more medals for Sri Lanka at South Asian Athletics Championships 2025
Sri Lankan athletes added three more medals to Sri Lanka’s overall medals tally on day two of the 4th SAAF South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025 in Ranchi on Saturday. MORE..
Thai PM to meet with Trump before signing Cambodia ceasefire deal
Thai PM to meet with Trump before signing Cambodia ceasefire deal
Thailand’s prime minister will travel to Malaysia on Saturday to sign a ceasefire deal with Cambodia and meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, but will cut short his attendance at the ASEAN Summit there due to the death of the Thai Queen Mother Sirikit. MORE..
Baddegama PS deputy chairman hospitalized after attack
Baddegama PS deputy chairman hospitalized after attack
The Deputy Chairman of the Baddegama Pradeshiya Sabha, Saman C. Liyanage, has reportedly been hospitalized following an attack by unidentified assailants. MORE..
Sri Lanka forms panel after Thailand raises concern over health of gifted elephants
Sri Lanka forms panel after Thailand raises concern over health of gifted elephants
Sri Lanka has appointed a committee of veterinarians to examine two elephants gifted by Thailand, following concerns raised by Bangkok over their health condition, officials said on Saturday. MORE..
Private company LTL summoned before COPE committee
Private company LTL summoned before COPE committee
Lanka Transformers Limited (LTL) was summoned before the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) yesterday to provide information related to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). MORE..
Picasso painting held in private collection sells for $31 million at Paris auction
Picasso painting held in private collection sells for $31 million at Paris auction
A painting by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, believed to be depicting his muse and partner Dora Maar, fetched 27 million euros ($31.49 million) at a Paris auction on Friday. MORE..
SLNS Samudura dispatched to rescue crew of distressed merchant vessel
SLNS Samudura dispatched to rescue crew of distressed merchant vessel
The Sri Lanka Naval Ship (SLNS) Samudura departed yesterday (24) to rescue the crew of the MV Integrity Star, a merchant vessel that was in distress due to a mechanical malfunction in its main machinery nearly 100 nautical miles south of Sri Lanka. MORE..
Nationwide tsunami mock drill scheduled for Nov. 5 – DMC
Nationwide tsunami mock drill scheduled for Nov. 5 – DMC
The Director General of the Disaster Management Center (DMC), Major General (Retd.) Sampath Kotuwegoda, announced that preparations are underway for a tsunami mock exercise covering the entire island on November 5. MORE..
Minor flood warnings issued for several areas of Kalu Ganga basin
Minor flood warnings issued for several areas of Kalu Ganga basin
The Department of Irrigation has warned that there is a risk of minor flooding in several areas along the Kalu Ganga basin during the next 48 hours. MORE..
15 reservoirs spilling due to heavy rainfall
15 reservoirs spilling due to heavy rainfall
The Irrigation Department reports that about 15 small and large reservoirs are spilling due to the ongoing heavy rainfall. MORE..
Energy Minister orders withdrawal of PSRS Director General appointment letter
Energy Minister orders withdrawal of PSRS Director General appointment letter
The Minister of Energy, Eng. Kumara Jayakody, has directed the immediate withdrawal of a recent letter concerning the appointment of the Director General of the Power Sector Reforms Secretariat (PSRS). MORE..
Kalu Ganga water level rises; Residents urged to be vigilant
Kalu Ganga water level rises; Residents urged to be vigilant
The Department of Irrigation reports that the water levels in several reservoirs across the country have further increased due to the ongoing heavy rainfall. MORE..
Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, influential style icon, dies at 93
Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, influential style icon, dies at 93
Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, who brought glamour and elegance to a postwar revival in the country’s monarchy and who, in later years, would occasionally wade into politics, has died aged 93, the Thai Royal Household Bureau said on Saturday. MORE..
Fire breaks out on ‘Rajarata Rejini’ train
Fire breaks out on ‘Rajarata Rejini’ train
A fire has broken out on the ‘Rajarata Rejini’ train operating from Anuradhapura to Beliatta, the Railway Department reported. MORE..
Trump will meet Xi in South Korea, says White House
Trump will meet Xi in South Korea, says White House
US President Donald Trump will meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in South Korea on 30 October on the sidelines of a summit in Asia, the White House has confirmed. MORE..
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
The Meteorology Department states that showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, Northern, and North Central Provinces, and in Galle, Matara, and Trincomalee Districts. MORE..
Chamod and Pasindu win gold, Viknaraj clinches silver at South Asian Athletics Championship
Chamod and Pasindu win gold, Viknaraj clinches silver at South Asian Athletics Championship
Sri Lanka has won two gold medals and a silver at the 4th SAAF South Asian Senior Athletics Championship, which kicked off on Friday (24) at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi, India. MORE..
Sri Lanka sees 8 pct drop in marriages in 2024
Sri Lanka sees 8 pct drop in marriages in 2024
Sri Lanka recorded a notable decline in marriages in 2024, according to the latest data from the Department of Census and Statistics. MORE..
SJB MP Jagath Withana alleges death threats, calls for security
SJB MP Jagath Withana alleges death threats, calls for security
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament Jagath Withana has alleged receiving death threats, claiming that he has received information that there is an attempt to shoot him. MORE..
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in several provinces
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in several provinces
The Department of Meteorology says that showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts. MORE..
SriLankan Airlines issues clarification on 2024/25 financial performance
SriLankan Airlines issues clarification on 2024/25 financial performance
SriLankan Airlines today issued a clarification regarding the recent reports concerning the airline’s financial performance for the financial year 2024/25. MORE..
Six Sri Lankan seafarers detained in Eritrea repatriated
Six Sri Lankan seafarers detained in Eritrea repatriated
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, in close coordination with the Sri Lanka Mission in Egypt and the Eritrean authorities, has successfully facilitated the repatriation of six Sri Lankan seafarers who were previously detained in Eritrea. MORE..
Landslide warnings issued for several districts extended
Landslide warnings issued for several districts extended
Early landslide warning issued for several districts of the island owing to the prevailing heavy rain, have been extended. More..
Committee on Public Finance approves 2026 Appropriation Bill
Committee on Public Finance approves 2026 Appropriation Bill
The Committee on Public Finance (COPF) has granted its approval for the Appropriation Bill for the year 2026, according to the Department of Parliament Communication. MORE..
Unit of Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor’s ‘Peddi’ heads to Sri Lanka for next schedule
Unit of Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor’s ‘Peddi’ heads to Sri Lanka for next schedule
The unit of director Buchi Babu Sana’s eagerly awaited action extravaganza ‘Peddi’, featuring Telugu star Ram Charan in the lead, has now headed to Sri Lanka for the next schedule of the film. MORE..
King Charles hosts Ukraine’s Zelensky at Windsor Castle
King Charles hosts Ukraine’s Zelensky at Windsor Castle
King Charles III hosted President Volodymyr Zelensky in Windsor Friday, ahead of the Ukrainian leader’s latest talks with European leaders in London on how to increase pressure on Russia. MORE..
Sri Lankan Army refurbishes 76 unserviceable vehicles, saving Rs. 10 mln per month
Sri Lankan Army refurbishes 76 unserviceable vehicles, saving Rs. 10 mln per month
A total of 76 vehicles of the Sri Lanka Army that had been in long-term use and had become unserviceable have been fully restored to motorable condition and are scheduled to be added to the Army vehicle fleet from today (24). MORE..
Sri Lankan writer Vajra Chandrasekera wins 2025 Ursula K Le Guin Prize for Fiction
Sri Lankan writer Vajra Chandrasekera wins 2025 Ursula K Le Guin Prize for Fiction
Sri Lankan author Vajra Chandrasekera’s second novel, Rakesfall, has won the 2025 Ursula K Le Guin Prize for Fiction, a $25,000 award recognising “writers who imagine real grounds for hope.” MORE..
Two arrested for soliciting bribe to offer job at Ports Authority
Two arrested for soliciting bribe to offer job at Ports Authority
A former official of the Fisheries Department and a staff member of former Deputy Minister of Housing and Construction Indika Bandaranayake have been arrested by officers of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). MORE..
Dental surgeons set to launch 24-hour token strike
Dental surgeons set to launch 24-hour token strike
The Government Dental Surgeons’ Association (GDSA) has declared an island-wide token strike on 06 November 2025, to protest against the “ongoing administrative collapse” within the Dental Services Division of the Ministry of Health. MORE..
US President Trump pardons Binance founder Changpeng Zhao
US President Trump pardons Binance founder Changpeng Zhao
US President Donald Trump has pardoned Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, who created the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange and served prison time for failing to stop criminals from using the platform to move money connected to child sex abuse, drug trafficking and terrorism. MORE..
Appeals Court orders Customs to expedite probe into BYD motor capacity
Appeals Court orders Customs to expedite probe into BYD motor capacity
The Court of Appeal today ordered Sri Lanka Customs to promptly conclude the investigation into the motor capacities of BYD vehicles currently detained by customs. MORE..
Govt’s development agenda rooted in sustainability and human dignity – PM Harini
Govt’s development agenda rooted in sustainability and human dignity – PM Harini
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the Government’s development agenda is rooted in sustainability and human dignity and that the Government aims to uplift every community and ensure that progress reaches all corners of the country. MORE..
Weligama PS chairman’s murder: Shooter a security forces deserter?
Weligama PS chairman’s murder: Shooter a security forces deserter?
Sri Lanka Police says that new information is emerging regarding the shooter involved in the recent killing of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara. MORE..
Advisory issued for strong winds, heavy showers and rough seas
Advisory issued for strong winds, heavy showers and rough seas
An ‘Amber’ weather advisory has been issued for strong winds, heavy showers and rough seas for multi-day boats in the Bay of Bengal sea area by the Department of Meteorology. MORE..
Four suspects further remanded for aiding escape of Ishara Sewwandi
Four suspects further remanded for aiding escape of Ishara Sewwandi
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the further remand of two male suspects and two female suspects who were arrested for allegedly aiding and abetting the escape of Ishara Sewwandi, a main suspect in the murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’, until November 7. MORE..
IMF urges Asia to cut trade barriers to beat US tariffs
IMF urges Asia to cut trade barriers to beat US tariffs
The International Monetary Fund on Friday urged Asia to lower non-tariff barriers and integrate regional trade to reduce its vulnerability to U.S. tariffs and global financial shocks. MORE..
SLC to allocate Rs. 1.5 bln annually for school cricket development
SLC to allocate Rs. 1.5 bln annually for school cricket development
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) will allocate nearly Rs. 1.5 billion annually for the development and promotion of school cricket, according to Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage. MORE..
Thai government moves to bring back 2 gifted elephants from Sri Lanka
Thai government moves to bring back 2 gifted elephants from Sri Lanka
The Thai government is set to hold talks with Sri Lanka on October 28 to bring back two elephants that were gifted by Thailand, following reports of poor living conditions and alleged mistreatment. MORE..
One dead, 8 injured in head-on collision of van and tipper truck
One dead, 8 injured in head-on collision of van and tipper truck
One person was killed while eight others, including six women from the same family, were injured and hospitalised after a van collided head-on with a tipper truck in the Vahaneri area in Valaichchenai on the Batticaloa-Polonnaruwa main road. MORE..
Seven remanded for operating pyramid scheme
Seven remanded for operating pyramid scheme
Seven suspects have been remanded after being arrested yesterday (23) on charges of operating, promoting, and managing a pyramid scheme, according to police. MORE..
Trump says all trade talks with Canada are terminated
Trump says all trade talks with Canada are terminated
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that all trade talks with Canada were terminated following what he called a fraudulent advertisement in which former President Ronald Reagan spoke negatively about tariffs. MORE..
Skipper of boat that took Ishara Sewwandi to India arrested in Jaffna
Skipper of boat that took Ishara Sewwandi to India arrested in Jaffna
The skipper and the boat that allegedly transported Ishara Sewwandi, a main suspect in the murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’, to India have been taken into custody in Jaffna by the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD), according to police. MORE..
25 dead as bus catches fire after collision in India
25 dead as bus catches fire after collision in India
At least 25 passengers were reportedly killed and several others injured when a private sleeper coach travelling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire after colliding with a motorcycle near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district early on Friday, 24 October. MORE..
8 including women arrested with Rs. 20 mln in cash from ‘staged robbery’
8 including women arrested with Rs. 20 mln in cash from ‘staged robbery’
Eight suspects, including a woman, have been arrested for allegedly attempting to steal over Rs. 20 million belonging to a private institution in Pettah by staging a fake robbery while an employee was transporting the money to a bank. MORE..
Unidentified body found in sea area near Colombo Port
Unidentified body found in sea area near Colombo Port
An unidentified body has been discovered in the sea near the jetty of the Colombo Port Adani Terminal by the Colombo Port Police following information received. MORE..
Trump to meet Xi in South Korea as part of Asia swing
Trump to meet Xi in South Korea as part of Asia swing
U.S. President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week as part of a trip to Asia, the White House said on Thursday, confirming the meeting which had been called into question following an escalation in trade tensions. MORE..
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts, today (24), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Achintha wins gold at Asian Youth Games 2025
Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Achintha wins gold at Asian Youth Games 2025
Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Achintha delivered an outstanding performance at the Asian Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain, securing the gold medal in the Boys’ 1500m event on Thursday. MORE..
King Charles and Pope Leo pray together in a 500-year first
King Charles and Pope Leo pray together in a 500-year first
Britain’s King Charles and Pope Leo prayed together in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel on Thursday, in the first joint worship including an English monarch and a Catholic pontiff since King Henry VIII broke away from Rome in 1534. MORE..
National awards ceremony for excellence in agricultural research held under President’s patronage
National awards ceremony for excellence in agricultural research held under President’s patronage
The National Awards Ceremony for Excellence in Agricultural Research for the years 2023 and 2025 was held this afternoon (23) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. MORE..
High-level meeting held to strengthen security measures at BIA
High-level meeting held to strengthen security measures at BIA
A high-level meeting was held at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake today (23) jointly chaired by the Deputy Minister of Ports and Aviation, Janith Ruwan Kodituwakku, and the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha. MORE..
Undertaking not to take ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’ out of CID extended
Undertaking not to take ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’ out of CID extended
The Court of Appeal has ordered today (23) the extension of the undertaking given not to take ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’, who is in the custody of the Criminal Investigation Department, out of the CID until December 02. MORE..
Bill Gates to make Indian TV debut on ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2’
Bill Gates to make Indian TV debut on ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2’
Earlier today, reports circulated online stating that Smriti Irani’s Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 is set to achieve another milestone. Businessman and philanthropist Bill Gates is scheduled to appear in the ongoing limited series via video call, with his storyline spanning three episodes. MORE..
Mexico flood death toll rises to 78 as recovery efforts continue
Mexico flood death toll rises to 78 as recovery efforts continue
The death toll from devastating floods that struck Mexico earlier this month has increased to 78, with rescue teams continuing search operations for missing individuals. The severe weather affected five states, displacing thousands and causing extensive infrastructure damage across multiple regions. MORE..
White House East Wing will be torn down fully to make way for Trump ballroom
White House East Wing will be torn down fully to make way for Trump ballroom
The full East Wing of the White House will be torn down to make way for President Donald Trump’s new ballroom, contradicting the former New York real estate magnate’s pledge that the project would not interfere with the existing U.S. landmark. MORE..
Private company manager posing as Bribery Commission officer arrested
Private company manager posing as Bribery Commission officer arrested
A Manager of a private company in Polonnaruwa has been arrested for allegedly impersonating an officer attached to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). MORE..
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 10,000 today
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 10,000 today
The price of gold in Sri Lanka has declined by around Rs. 77,000 in comparison to last week , while today (23) alone, the price of gold has decreased by around Rs. 10,000. MORE..
King Charles commences historic state visit to the Vatican
King Charles commences historic state visit to the Vatican
King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Rome at the start of a historic state visit to the Vatican, where they will meet Pope Leo in a symbolic display of unity between the Church of England and the Catholic Church. MORE..
Advisory issued for strong winds and rough seas
Advisory issued for strong winds and rough seas
An ‘Amber’ weather advisory has been issued for strong winds and rough seas by the Department of Meteorology. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s export earnings surge to nearly USD 13B in first 9 months of 2025
Sri Lanka’s export earnings surge to nearly USD 13B in first 9 months of 2025
Sri Lanka’s export sector has demonstrated resilience and steady growth during the first nine months of 2025, recording total earnings of US$ 12,986.52 million, the Export Development Board (EDB) stated. MORE..
Weligama PS Chairman’s Murder: Suspects to be arrested within the next two to three days - Minister
Weligama PS Chairman’s Murder: Suspects to be arrested within the next two to three days - Minister
Individuals involved in the assassination of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Lasantha Wickramasekara are expected to be arrested within the next two to three days, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala stated. MORE..
Over 800 persons on death row in Sri Lanka: Prison Spokesman
Over 800 persons on death row in Sri Lanka: Prison Spokesman
A total of 826 individuals are on death row at present, Commissioner of Prisons and Media Spokesman Jagath Weerasinghe stated. MORE..
Wife of ‘Backhoe Saman’ further remanded
Wife of ‘Backhoe Saman’ further remanded
The wife of underworld figure ‘Backhoe Saman’, Shadhika Lakshani, who is currently in remand custody under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, has been further remanded until October 31 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Alibaba launches AI chatbot service in renewed consumer push
Alibaba launches AI chatbot service in renewed consumer push
Alibaba launched a new AI chatbot assistant service on Thursday, refreshing its push into a consumer-facing space that is dominated by ByteDance and Tencent. MORE..
India PM Modi to attend ASEAN summit virtually, ruling out Trump meeting
India PM Modi to attend ASEAN summit virtually, ruling out Trump meeting
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate virtually in the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, ruling out a possible meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and indicating New Delhi and Washington may not be close to sealing a trade deal. MORE..
3,000 families in 14 districts affected by adverse weather across Sri Lanka
3,000 families in 14 districts affected by adverse weather across Sri Lanka
A total of 12,142 individuals from 3,036 families have been affected by the adverse weather conditions prevailing in the country, according to the Disaster Management Center (DMC). MORE..
Oil rises 3% as India reconsiders Russian oil amid fresh US sanctions
Oil rises 3% as India reconsiders Russian oil amid fresh US sanctions
Oil prices jumped more than 3% on Thursday, extending gains from the previous session, as India buyers started reviewing their Russian oil purchases after the U.S. imposed sanctions on major suppliers Rosneft and Lukoil over the Ukraine war. MORE..
Over 650 acres of government-held land in North and East released to previous owners
Over 650 acres of government-held land in North and East released to previous owners
Around 672 acres of land controlled by the military in the North and East for several years have been released to its previous owners, Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.) stated. MORE..
Common curriculum proposed for all preschools from 2027
Common curriculum proposed for all preschools from 2027
A common single curriculum framework will be implemented across all preschools island-wide from 2027, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has announced. MORE..
Strong winds in New Zealand leave thousands without power, more than 100 flights cancelled
Strong winds in New Zealand leave thousands without power, more than 100 flights cancelled
Strong winds of up to 155km/h (96mph) in New Zealand has left around 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, report local media. MORE..
20 new self-check-in kiosks installed at BIA
20 new self-check-in kiosks installed at BIA
Another 20 self-service check-in kiosks have been installed at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to improve efficiency and passenger experience at the airport. MORE..
MPs, staff to be subjected to special inspection ahead Budget speech
MPs, staff to be subjected to special inspection ahead Budget speech
A special security inspection will be conducted at the Parliament complex over three days in November ahead of the 2026 Budget speech, the Speaker of House, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne informed Parliament today (23). MORE..
Two killed in separate road accidents in Bandaragama and Polonnaruwa
Two killed in separate road accidents in Bandaragama and Polonnaruwa
A 17-year-old school student was killed in a fatal road accident in Bandaragama last evening (22). MORE..
Louvre Museum Director admits security failures, proposes new measures
Louvre Museum Director admits security failures, proposes new measures
Louvre Museum Director Laurence des Cars on Wednesday admitted failures in the museum’s external surveillance system and announced a series of new security measures. MORE..
One in every four people over the age of 25 may experience stroke - health experts
One in every four people over the age of 25 may experience stroke - health experts
One in every four people over the age of 25 may experience a stroke during their lifetime, health authorities say. MORE..
Apple may be forced to allow rival app stores in UK
Apple may be forced to allow rival app stores in UK
Apple may have to allow rivals to operate their own app stores on iPhones in the UK, after a ruling from the competition regulator. MORE..
Probe underway through CCTV footage to identify assassins of Weligama PS Chairman
Probe underway through CCTV footage to identify assassins of Weligama PS Chairman
Investigations have been launched through CCTV footage regarding yesterday’s murder of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara, police stated. more..
Special directive issued to magistrates by Judicial Service Commission
Special directive issued to magistrates by Judicial Service Commission
All magistrates have been instructed by the Judicial Service Commission to take necessary steps to remove drug samples weighing less than one kilogram that have accumulated at the Government Analyst’s Department. MORE..
Rail services between Kandy and Colombo resume after disruption due to bad weather
Rail services between Kandy and Colombo resume after disruption due to bad weather
Rail services between Kandy and Colombo that were disrupted since Sunday (19) owing to landslides and a train derailment have resumed this morning (23). MORE..
Man dies after being hit by train in Wellawatte
Man dies after being hit by train in Wellawatte
An individual has died after being hit by a train traveling from Panadura to Puttalam, near the Wellawatte Railway Station, last evening (22). MORE..
U.S. sanctions Russia’s top 2 oil producers to press for ceasefire in Ukraine
U.S. sanctions Russia’s top 2 oil producers to press for ceasefire in Ukraine
US Treasury Department on Wednesday announced sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil producers, Rosneft and Lukoil, in a bid to pressure Moscow to agree to an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. MORE..
Fallen tree in Katugoda disrupts rail services along Coastal Line
Fallen tree in Katugoda disrupts rail services along Coastal Line
Train operations along the coastal line have been disrupted due to a fallen tree between Katugoda and Galle, the Department of Railways stated. MORE..
UN’s top court says Israel obliged to allow UN aid into Gaza
UN’s top court says Israel obliged to allow UN aid into Gaza
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has said Israel has a legal obligation to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip by the UN and its entities to ensure the basic needs of Palestinian civilians there are met. MORE..
10-hour water cut in several areas of Colombo today
10-hour water cut in several areas of Colombo today
A 10-hour water cut will be in effect in several areas within the Colombo District today (23), the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has announced. MORE..
Heavy showers above 75mm expected in several areas today
Heavy showers above 75mm expected in several areas today
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western provinces and in the Galle and Matara districts today (23), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
SpaceX says it has cut Starlink services to Myanmar scam camps
SpaceX says it has cut Starlink services to Myanmar scam camps
Elon Musk’s SpaceX says it has cut Starlink satellite communication links to more than 2,500 devices used by scam compounds in Myanmar. MORE..
New ‘Korean Language Examination Center’ opened
New ‘Korean Language Examination Center’ opened
A new electronic examination center equipped with modern facilities, including smart devices such as tablets, was officially opened today (22) to facilitate Korean language proficiency tests required for employment in South Korea. MORE..
Over 100,000 tourists arrive in October
Over 100,000 tourists arrive in October
The number of tourists who arrived in the country in the first 20 days of October stood at 103,491, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has announced. MORE..
Underworld behind Weligama PS Chairman’s assassination?
Underworld behind Weligama PS Chairman’s assassination?
The assassination of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara earlier today (22) has once again sparked public discourse about underworld criminal activities. MORE..
Kandy-Colombo train services to resume after several days
Kandy-Colombo train services to resume after several days
Several train journeys along the main line, which were temporarily suspended due to a train derailment and adverse weather conditions, will resume operations starting tomorrow (23), the Department of Railways has announced. MORE..
Israel’s parliament gives initial nod to occupied West Bank annexation
Israel’s parliament gives initial nod to occupied West Bank annexation
A bill applying Israeli law to the occupied West Bank, a move tantamount to annexation of land which Palestinians want for a state, won preliminary approval from Israel’s parliament on Wednesday. MORE..
CID records statement from model Piumi Hansamali regarding ongoing probe
CID records statement from model Piumi Hansamali regarding ongoing probe
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has recorded a statement from popular model and actress Piumi Hansamali, for approximately two hours. MORE..
CCD submits report to court on Ishara Sewwandi
CCD submits report to court on Ishara Sewwandi
The Colombo Crimes Division today submitted a report to the Colombo Magistrate’s Court regarding the ongoing investigations into Ishara Sewwandi, who has been identified as a key suspect in the murder of underworld gang leader Ganemulla Sanjeewa. MORE..
Notorious criminal Loku Patty’s associate remanded
Notorious criminal Loku Patty’s associate remanded
A businessman who is accused of handling financial operations of a notorious criminal known as ‘Loku Patty’ has been remanded until October 24, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Pakistan Navy seizes record amount of narcotics worth nearly $1bn in Arabian Sea
Pakistan Navy seizes record amount of narcotics worth nearly $1bn in Arabian Sea
The Pakistan Navy seized a record amount of narcotics worth more than $972 million in the Arabian Sea, the US Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) said. MORE..
Indian capital Delhi air quality remains in very poor category
Indian capital Delhi air quality remains in very poor category
Air quality in the Indian capital on Wednesday continued to remain in a very poor category, the Central Pollution Control Board said. MORE..
Landslide warnings issued for residents of 11 districts extended
Landslide warnings issued for residents of 11 districts extended
Early landslide warnings issued to residents of multiple areas in 11 districts owing to incessant rains experienced in parts of the island, have been extended. MORE..
Kelani Valley Line to be extended to Ratnapura?
Kelani Valley Line to be extended to Ratnapura?
The government has decided to conduct a feasibility study and prepare a detailed plan to extend the Kelani Valley Line up to Ratnapura. MORE..
Corruption case against ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa fixed for hearing
Corruption case against ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa fixed for hearing
The case filed by the Bribery Commission against former Minister Wimal Weerawansa, over the alleged illegal acquisition of assets and funds worth nearly Rs. 75 million during his tenure as a Cabinet Minister, has been fixed for hearing by the Colombo High Court. MORE..
Netflix announces new Kennedy family series starring Michael Fassbender
Netflix announces new Kennedy family series starring Michael Fassbender
One of America’s most famous families is getting the Netflix treatment. MORE..
Sri Lanka to sign UN Convention against Cybercrimes
Sri Lanka to sign UN Convention against Cybercrimes
The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to a proposal to sign the United Nations Convention against Cybercrimes (UNCC). MORE..
Five train journeys including Colombo-Badulla night mail cancelled
Five train journeys including Colombo-Badulla night mail cancelled
Five train journeys, including the two night mail trains scheduled to run today from Colombo Fort to Badulla and from Badulla to Colombo Fort, have been cancelled, Sri Lanka Railways said. MORE..
Govt to provide schoolchildren and Piriven students with vouchers to purchase shoes
Govt to provide schoolchildren and Piriven students with vouchers to purchase shoes
The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to the proposal to provide vouchers to purchase a pair of shoes to selected schoolchildren, Piriven students and Seela Mathas for the year 2026. MORE..
Gold falls again as rally comes to halt, stock markets mixed
Gold falls again as rally comes to halt, stock markets mixed
Gold and silver sank for a second day on Wednesday (Oct 22), bringing a rally in the precious metals to a juddering halt, while stocks were mixed after United States President Donald Trump remarked that a meeting with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping might not take place. MORE..
Officials instructed to collect data of individuals unable to repay microfinance loans
Officials instructed to collect data of individuals unable to repay microfinance loans
The Sub-Committee appointed by the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment has instructed officials to take steps to collect data on individuals who are unable to repay microfinance loans... MORE..
Piyal Manamperi remanded till October 29
Piyal Manamperi remanded till October 29
Former SLPP Angunukolapelessa Pradeshiya Sabha member Piyal Manamperi who was arrested in connection with the recent recovery of chemicals allegedly used to manufacture ‘Ice’ in Middeniya has been remanded, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
Four dead, 9,500 affected in 12 districts due to adverse weather
Four dead, 9,500 affected in 12 districts due to adverse weather
At least four individuals have died in recent days owing to the prevailing adverse weather conditions across the country. MORE..
Cabinet approval to hold ‘Sri Lankan Day’ from Dec. 12-14
Cabinet approval to hold ‘Sri Lankan Day’ from Dec. 12-14
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved holding the “Sri Lankan Day” from December 12 to 14, 2025 at the Colombo Town Hall grounds, Vihara Maha Devi Park, and adjoining roads. MORE..
Four police teams assigned to probe murder of Weligama PS Chairman
Four police teams assigned to probe murder of Weligama PS Chairman
Four police teams have been assigned to investigate the murder of the Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara, police stated. MORE..
ChatGPT-maker OpenAI releases browser in attempt to rival Google
ChatGPT-maker OpenAI releases browser in attempt to rival Google
ChatGPT-maker OpenAI has unveiled an artificial intelligence-powered web browser to challenge competitors like Google, which operates Chrome, the most popular browser in the world. MORE..
One dead, 10 injured after bus crashes into tree on Mannar-Medawachchiya road
One dead, 10 injured after bus crashes into tree on Mannar-Medawachchiya road
One person has died and 10 others have been injured and hospitalized in a tragic bus accident that occurred between 35Km Post and 36Km Post on the Mannar-Medawachchiya main road this morning (22). MORE..
Parliament turns pink in support of breast cancer awareness
Parliament turns pink in support of breast cancer awareness
Members of Parliament and staff today (22) attended Parliament session dressed in pink or pink shaded attire to support the breast cancer awareness initiative. MORE..
CCTV footage of gunmen involved in Weligama PS chairman’s murder
CCTV footage of gunmen involved in Weligama PS chairman’s murder
CCTV camera footage showing the gunmen involved in the shooting of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekera entering his office and fleeing the premises has been received by Ada Derana. MORE..
Kehelbaddara Padme’s illegally acquired assets worth Rs. 50M seized
Kehelbaddara Padme’s illegally acquired assets worth Rs. 50M seized
Illegally acquired assets valued at around Rs. 50 million, allegedly belonging to the notorious underworld figure Padmasiri Perera also known as ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’, have been seized by the Police Illegal Assets Investigation Division. MORE..
10-hour water cut in several areas within Colombo District
10-hour water cut in several areas within Colombo District
The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has announced that a 10-hour water cut will be implemented in several areas within the Colombo District tomorrow (23). MORE..
At least 63 die in Uganda highway crash as two buses collide head-on
At least 63 die in Uganda highway crash as two buses collide head-on
A road accident involving two buses on one of Uganda’s busiest highways killed at least 63 people and left others injured, police said on Wednesday. MORE..
Weligama PS chairman dies after being shot inside his office
Weligama PS chairman dies after being shot inside his office
The Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara, also known as ‘Midigama Lasa,’ who was critically injured in a shooting incident this morning, has succumbed to his injuries while being admitted to the hospital, a short while ago. MORE..
Weligama PS chairman injured in shooting
Weligama PS chairman injured in shooting
The Chairman of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha, Lasantha Wickramasekara, has reportedly been injured and hospitalised following a shooting incident, a short while ago. MORE..
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 20,000 today
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 20,000 today
The price of gold in Sri Lanka has declined by around Rs. 60,000 in comparison to last Friday (17), while today (22) alone, the price of gold has decreased by around Rs. 20,000. MORE..
Ukrainian city in total blackout after ‘massive’ Russian assault
Ukrainian city in total blackout after ‘massive’ Russian assault
The Ukrainian city of Chernihiv is in total blackout following what the authorities describe as a “massive” assault by Russian missiles and drones, with hundreds of thousands of people affected. MORE..
Stolen Louvre jewellery worth €88m, prosecutor says
Stolen Louvre jewellery worth €88m, prosecutor says
Jewellery stolen from the Louvre in Paris in a daring daylight robbery has been valued at 88 million euros (Ł76m; $102m), a French public prosecutor has said, citing the museum’s curator. MORE..
Ayurvedic spa owners file petition seeking legalization of treatment centers
Ayurvedic spa owners file petition seeking legalization of treatment centers
The Sri Lanka Spa Owners’ Association has filed a writ petition with the Court of Appeal seeking an order directing the Attorney General to take immediate steps to prepare a bill to legalize and regulate Ayurvedic massage treatment centers. MORE..
Peru declares 30-day state of emergency in Lima to tackle rising crime
Peru declares 30-day state of emergency in Lima to tackle rising crime
Peru’s President Jose Jeri declared on Tuesday a 30-day state of emergency in the capital Lima and the neighboring province of Callao, saying the move was to battle rising crime. MORE..
Supreme Court annuls medal awarded by Peradeniya University
Supreme Court annuls medal awarded by Peradeniya University
The decision taken by the administration of the University of Peradeniya to present the “Professor E.O.E. Pereira” gold medal, awarded to the best student of the Faculty of Engineering in 2015... MORE..
Train services on up-country line continue to be disrupted
Train services on up-country line continue to be disrupted
Sri Lanka Railways has announced that train services on the up-country line will continue to be restricted today (22). MORE..
Putin-Trump summit on hold after Russia rejects ceasefire
Putin-Trump summit on hold after Russia rejects ceasefire
A planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was put on hold on Tuesday, as Moscow’s rejection of an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine cast a cloud over attempts at negotiations. MORE..
CAA issues gazette announcing maximum retail prices for imported rice
CAA issues gazette announcing maximum retail prices for imported rice
The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has issued a gazette notification announcing the maximum retail prices (MRP) for imported rice varieties, effective from October 21, 2025. MORE..
Heavy rains, strong winds expected in various parts of the island today
Heavy rains, strong winds expected in various parts of the island today
The low-pressure area located near the northern coast of Sri Lanka is expected to intensify further and move west-northwestward and is likely to develop into a Depression over the coastal areas of northern Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh during this evening (22), the Meteorology Department said. MORE..
Sri Lanka establishes diplomatic relations with Belize
Sri Lanka establishes diplomatic relations with Belize
The Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Belize have established Diplomatic Relations between the two countries with effect from today (21), upon the signing of the agreement. MORE..
New drug pricing formula passed in Parliament
New drug pricing formula passed in Parliament
The pricing formula introduced for pharmaceutical drugs was passed in Parliament today (21). MORE..
Court orders arrest of large-scale drug traffickers ‘Dehi Bale Malli’ and ‘Kalu Malli’
Court orders arrest of large-scale drug traffickers ‘Dehi Bale Malli’ and ‘Kalu Malli’
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today ordered the immediate arrest of large-scale drug traffickers Sehan Sathsara alias “Dehi Bale Malli” and his brother Thushan Nethsara alias “Kalu Malli”, who are said to be hiding overseas and operating drug rackets in the country. MORE..
Former French President Sarkozy starts 5-year prison sentence
Former French President Sarkozy starts 5-year prison sentence
Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy began a five-year sentence on Tuesday for conspiring to raise campaign funds from Libya, arriving at La Sante prison in Paris in a stunning downfall for a man who led the country between 2007 and 2012. MORE..
Sri Lanka ranked 7th among best countries for food in the world 2025
Sri Lanka ranked 7th among best countries for food in the world 2025
Sri Lanka has been recognized for its exceptional culinary delights, ranking 7th for the world’s best food in 2025, according to Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. MORE..
No decision to remove vehicle pass logos of lawyers and doctors – Minister
No decision to remove vehicle pass logos of lawyers and doctors – Minister
Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the government has not taken any decision to remove the identification badges (vehicle pass logos) displayed on the vehicles of lawyers and doctors. MORE..
Easter attacks: Court extends injunction on ex-Army Intelligence Officer’s arrest
Easter attacks: Court extends injunction on ex-Army Intelligence Officer’s arrest
The Court of Appeal has extended until November 11 the interim injunction issued preventing the arrest of former Army Intelligence Officer Colonel K. S. Maddumage without consulting the Attorney General, in connection with the investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s inflation climbs to 2.1% in September
Sri Lanka’s inflation climbs to 2.1% in September
The overall rate of inflation, as measured by the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI), has increased to 2.1% in September 2025, compared to 1.5% in August 2025, according to the latest data released by the Department of Census and Statistics. MORE..
Coconut plantations in Puttalam affected by caterpillar outbreak
Coconut plantations in Puttalam affected by caterpillar outbreak
A large number of coconut plantations have been severely affected by a coconut caterpillar outbreak that is spreading in several plantations in the Puttalam District. MORE..
Train services on up-country line continue to be disrupted
Train services on up-country line continue to be disrupted
Sri Lanka Railways announced that train services from Colombo on the up-country line will operate only up to Rambukkana, while trains from Badulla will operate only up to Peradeniya until 12 noon tomorrow (22). MORE..
Ruhuna University students arrested over clash remanded
Ruhuna University students arrested over clash remanded
A group of students of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Ruhuna, arrested following a clash after a cricket match, has been remanded until October 28, Ada Derana reporter said. MORE..
36,000 teacher vacancies exist within schools across Sri Lanka – PM
36,000 teacher vacancies exist within schools across Sri Lanka – PM
There are 36,178 teacher vacancies in provincial and national schools across the country at present, the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya informed Parliament today (21). MORE..
Over 40,000 dengue cases reported so far in 2025: NDCU
Over 40,000 dengue cases reported so far in 2025: NDCU
A total of 40,633 dengue cases have been reported from January 2025 to yesterday (20), according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU). MORE..
150 houses damaged due to prevailing adverse weather: DMC
150 houses damaged due to prevailing adverse weather: DMC
A total of 152 houses have been damaged owing to prevailing adverse weather conditions across the country, the Disaster Management Centre stated. MORE..
Harin Fernando receives new appointment within UNP
Harin Fernando receives new appointment within UNP
The United National Party has decided to create a new senior position within the party with immediate effect. MORE..
NASA confirms Earth now has two moons until 2083
NASA confirms Earth now has two moons until 2083
Earth just got a new tag-along in space — a little asteroid named 2025 PN7. MORE..
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 5,000 today
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 5,000 today
The price of gold in Sri Lanka has decreased by around Rs. 5,000 in comparison to Saturday (18), local market data indicates. MORE..
US chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky dies aged 29
US chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky dies aged 29
US chess grandmaster and online commentator Daniel Naroditsky has died aged 29. MORE..
Parliament to go pink tomorrow
Parliament to go pink tomorrow
Speaker of House Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, today (21) informed all Members of Parliament to wear pink or pink-shaded attire tomorrow (22), in view of the “Global Breast Cancer Awareness Month” in October. MORE..
Veteran Indian actor-comedian Asrani dies at 84 after brief illness
Veteran Indian actor-comedian Asrani dies at 84 after brief illness
Veteran Indian actor Govardhan Asrani, who endeared himself to the audiences by playing the eccentric jailer in “Sholay” and many other memorable roles in over 300 films, passed away in a hospital on Monday. He was 84. MORE..
Met. Dept issues ‘Red’ alert, heavy rainfall above 150 mm likely in many areas
Met. Dept issues ‘Red’ alert, heavy rainfall above 150 mm likely in many areas
A ‘Red’ alert warning has been issued for heavy rain in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, Southern, and Northern provinces, and in the Anuradhapura District, the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Sanae Takaichi wins historic vote to become Japan’s first female prime minister
Sanae Takaichi wins historic vote to become Japan’s first female prime minister
Liberal Democratic Party President Sanae Takaichi was elected prime minister by parliament on Tuesday (21), to become the country’s first female leader. MORE..
Myanmar military shuts down major cybercrime centre, detains over 2,000 people
Myanmar military shuts down major cybercrime centre, detains over 2,000 people
Myanmar’s military has shut down a major online scam operation near the border with Thailand, detaining more than 2,000 people and seizing dozens of Starlink satellite internet terminals, state media reported on Monday (Oct 20). MORE..
Water levels in several river basin rising – Public urged to remain cautious
Water levels in several river basin rising – Public urged to remain cautious
Flood warnings issued for residents of low-lying areas of the Maha Oya and Deduru Oya river basins remain in effect, according to the Department of Irrigation. MORE..
Train services on main line delayed due to signal failure near Hunupitiya station
Train services on main line delayed due to signal failure near Hunupitiya station
Train services along the main line have been delayed due to a signal failure near the Hunupitiya railway station, the Department of Railways stated. MORE..
Several roads in Galle inundated due to heavy rains
Several roads in Galle inundated due to heavy rains
Several roads in the Galle city have been inundated due to the prevailing heavy rainfall, causing severe disruption to transportation. MORE..
French police hunt Louvre thieves but warn crown jewels may never be recovered
French police hunt Louvre thieves but warn crown jewels may never be recovered
French police have launched one of the country’s biggest manhunts after the theft of the French crown jewels from the Louvre, but experts say the priceless artefacts are likely gone for good, dismantled, melted or sold off within days. MORE..
All issues affecting Lanka Government Cloud services now fully resolved: ICTA
All issues affecting Lanka Government Cloud services now fully resolved: ICTA
All issues affecting the Lanka Government Cloud services, which had experienced a breakdown, have now been fully resolved, the Information and Communication Technology Agency has announced. MORE..
Heavy traffic congestion along several roads in Colombo due to rain
Heavy traffic congestion along several roads in Colombo due to rain
Heavy traffic congestion has been reported along several roads in Colombo due to the prevailing heavy rains. MORE..
Two suspects linked to shooting arrested with ‘Ice’
Two suspects linked to shooting arrested with ‘Ice’
Two individuals allegedly involved in a shooting and intimidation have been arrested with crystal methamphetamine (‘Ice’) by the Western Province North Crime Division. MORE..
Subjects and functions of several ministries amended
Subjects and functions of several ministries amended
A gazette notification has been published revising the subjects and functions of several ministries with effect from October 17. MORE..
Amazon’s AWS nears recovery after major outage disrupts apps, services worldwide
Amazon’s AWS nears recovery after major outage disrupts apps, services worldwide
Amazon said on Monday (Oct 20) that a cloud computing unit at its data centre in northern Virginia had largely contained fallout from a widespread internet outage that caused global turmoil among thousands of sites, including some of the web’s most popular apps like Snapchat and Reddit. MORE..
Donald Trump warns Hamas will be ‘eradicated’ if it violates Gaza truce
Donald Trump warns Hamas will be ‘eradicated’ if it violates Gaza truce
US President Donald Trump warned on Monday (Oct 20) that Hamas would be “eradicated” if it breaks the fragile ceasefire with Israel, even as the United Nations and Israeli officials called for restraint after a weekend of renewed violence in Gaza. MORE..
Tornado kills one, injures four near French capital
Tornado kills one, injures four near French capital
A tornado tore through districts north of Paris on Monday (Oct 20), toppling three construction cranes that killed one person and left four others with critical injuries, authorities said. MORE..
Level 2 landslide warnings issued to residents of five districts
Level 2 landslide warnings issued to residents of five districts
Level 2 landslide warnings have been issued to residents of multiple areas in five districts owing to incessant rains experienced in parts of the island. MORE..
Heavy showers above 100 mm expected in several areas today
Heavy showers above 100 mm expected in several areas today
The prevailing low-level atmospheric disturbance to the east of the island still persists. MORE..
Shooting incident reported in Hikkaduwa
Shooting incident reported in Hikkaduwa
A shooting has taken place targeting a house in Mawathagama, Hikkaduwa, police stated. MORE..
South Eastern University students urge authorities to address lack of hostel facilities
South Eastern University students urge authorities to address lack of hostel facilities
Students of the 2022/23 batch of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka have urged authorities to promptly provide solutions to the lack of hostel facilities within the campus. MORE..
Donald Trump to visit China?
Donald Trump to visit China?
US President Donald Trump voiced confidence on Monday (Oct 20) that China would not invade Taiwan, saying he expected to maintain good relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and to seal a trade deal later this month. MORE..
Iraq bans US gaming platform Roblox over child safety concerns
Iraq bans US gaming platform Roblox over child safety concerns
Iraq has banned US user-generated videogame platform Roblox due to concerns over child abuse, the government said, joining other countries in cracking down on virtual worlds. MORE..
US government shutdown likely to end this week: White House adviser
US government shutdown likely to end this week: White House adviser
The 20-day United States federal government shutdown is likely to end this week, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said on Monday (Oct 20). MORE..
Second and third year Agri Faculty students of Ruhuna University directed to vacate the premises
Second and third year Agri Faculty students of Ruhuna University directed to vacate the premises
A clash has erupted between second-year and third-year students of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Ruhuna. MORE..
Three dead, over 100 families affected due to adverse weather
Three dead, over 100 families affected due to adverse weather
Three individuals have died due to disasters caused by the prevailing adverse weather conditions affecting various parts of the island, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) stated. MORE..
Three including police constable remanded for sheltering Ishara Sewwandi
Three including police constable remanded for sheltering Ishara Sewwandi
Three individuals, including a police constable, who were arrested for allegedly aiding Ishara Sewwandi, a key suspect in the ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’ murder case, by helping her evade arrest have been remanded. MORE..
Driving License fee at BIA increased from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 15,000
Driving License fee at BIA increased from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 15,000
The government has decided to increase the fee for obtaining a driving license issued at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 15,000. MORE..
Several reservoirs overflowing due to heavy rainfall
Several reservoirs overflowing due to heavy rainfall
Fourteen major tanks across the country are overflowing due to prevailing heavy rainfall, the Department of Irrigation stated. MORE..
Indonesian students stage protest as President Prabowo marks a year in office
Indonesian students stage protest as President Prabowo marks a year in office
Indonesian students protested in Jakarta on Monday as President Prabowo Subianto completed a year in office, two months after violent demonstrations nationwide, with one expert faulting the government on grounds of openness and public participation. MORE..
Excise trade unions strongly opposes statement by Commissioner General
Excise trade unions strongly opposes statement by Commissioner General
Trade unions attached to the Excise Department have expressed strong opposition to a statement made by the Commissioner General of Excise, during a trade union meeting held on Friday (17). MORE..
Landslide warnings issued to residents of nine districts
Landslide warnings issued to residents of nine districts
Early landslide warnings have been issued to residents of multiple areas in nine districts owing to incessant rains experienced in parts of the island. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s FDI records 138% increase in first nine months of 2025
Sri Lanka’s FDI records 138% increase in first nine months of 2025
Foreign Direct Investment inflows including foreign commercial loans for investments to BOI-approved enterprises have reached USD 827 million during the period January to September 2025, the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka has announced today. MORE..
More trains from Kandy to Colombo canceled due to landslides and derailment
More trains from Kandy to Colombo canceled due to landslides and derailment
Train operations along the upcountry main railway line continue to be disrupted due to a landslide that caused debris to fall onto the tracks and a train derailment near the Ihalakotte railway station. MORE..
Orionid meteor shower visible in Sri Lanka tonight
Orionid meteor shower visible in Sri Lanka tonight
Sri Lankans will be able to witness the Orionid meteor shower, formed from Halley’s Comet debris, tonight (20) and tomorrow (21), with peak visibility expected before dawn. MORE..
Zelensky ready to join Trump-Putin talks if invited
Zelensky ready to join Trump-Putin talks if invited
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he would be ready to join Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin at a proposed summit in Hungary if he were invited. MORE..
President, FUTA hold talks on pressing issues within university system
President, FUTA hold talks on pressing issues within university system
A meeting between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and academics of the Federation of University Teachers’ Unions (FUTA) was held this morning (20) at the Presidential Secretariat. MORE..
IGP urges police officers not to misuse their powers
IGP urges police officers not to misuse their powers
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya has requested all police officers to exercise the powers granted to them in a manner that upholds the rule of law in the country and serves the well-being of the public, without misusing them. MORE..
US State Department confirms DV-2027 delay and new $1 registration fee
US State Department confirms DV-2027 delay and new $1 registration fee
The US Department of State has confirmed a delay in the opening of registration for the Diversity Visa (DV) 2027 program, which typically begins in the first week of October. MORE..
Advisory issued for strong winds and rough seas
Advisory issued for strong winds and rough seas
An ‘Amber’ weather advisory has been issued for strong winds and rough seas by the Department of Meteorology. MORE..
Indian PM celebrates Diwali onboard warship with armed forces
Indian PM celebrates Diwali onboard warship with armed forces
Prime Minister Narendra Modi kept up his annual tradition of celebrating Diwali with the Indian armed forces and spent the festival of lights with the Navy personnel onboard INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwar (Karnataka) on Monday. MORE..
Amazon cloud platform and several other websites experiencing outages
Amazon cloud platform and several other websites experiencing outages
A major cloud computing service went offline early Monday, causing problems for thousands of websites and services including leading retailers, publishers and games. MORE..
Another seven train journeys canceled due to derailment on Main Line
Another seven train journeys canceled due to derailment on Main Line
The Department of Railways has cancelled another seven train journeys today (20), including the night mail train, following a train derailment along the Upcountry Main Railway Line. MORE..
Over 100 families in three districts affected by adverse weather
Over 100 families in three districts affected by adverse weather
More than 100 families in three districts have been affected by prevailing adverse weather conditions across the country. MORE..
Sri Lanka showcases economic reform & debt restructuring progress at IMF-World Bank meetings
Sri Lanka showcases economic reform & debt restructuring progress at IMF-World Bank meetings
The Sri Lankan delegation, led by Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), actively participated in a series of high-level bilateral and multilateral meetings during the 2025 World Bank Group/ International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., during October 13–18, 2025. MORE..
More trains cancelled as restoration work continues after derailment on upcountry line
More trains cancelled as restoration work continues after derailment on upcountry line
The Railway Departments states that the restoration of train services on the upcountry line following yesterday’s derailment, caused by a mound of earth collapsing on the Intercity Express train travelling from Kandy to Colombo Fort near the Ihalakotte Railway Station, may be further delayed. MORE..
Centrist Rodrigo Paz wins Bolivian presidency, ending nearly 20 years of leftist rule
Centrist Rodrigo Paz wins Bolivian presidency, ending nearly 20 years of leftist rule
Centrist Rodrigo Paz won Bolivia’s presidential runoff on Sunday, defeating conservative rival Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, as the country’s worst economic crisis in a generation helped propel the end of nearly two decades of leftist rule. MORE..
03 arrested for illegal excavation of artifacts in Nikaweratiya
03 arrested for illegal excavation of artifacts in Nikaweratiya
Three suspects have been arrested for their involvement in the illegal excavations in search of artifacts on private land in the Pinnapolegama area under the Nikaweratiya Police Division. MORE..
GovPay spot fine system launched in Southern Province
GovPay spot fine system launched in Southern Province
The police have announced that online payments of spot fines for traffic violations through GovPay will be rolled out in the Southern Province starting today (20). MORE..
Irrigation Dept. warns of flood risks as reservoir levels rise across the country
Irrigation Dept. warns of flood risks as reservoir levels rise across the country
The Irrigation Department states that the water levels of reservoirs in many areas across the country have increased rapidly due to the heavy rainfall experienced over the past few days. MORE..
Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division of Sri Lanka Police launched
Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division of Sri Lanka Police launched
Sri Lanka Police has officially inaugurated the Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division (PCID), today (20). MORE..
Sri Lankan sailor among 3 dead after landing craft capsizes near Maldives
Sri Lankan sailor among 3 dead after landing craft capsizes near Maldives
The death toll from the capsize of a landing craft that set off from Male’ City with a crew of seven people on Thursday has risen to three, as the body of the third sailor who went missing in the harrowing incident was found afloat in the waters of K. Atoll. MORE..
True spirit of Deepavali lies in awakening the light of truth and knowledge – Sajith
True spirit of Deepavali lies in awakening the light of truth and knowledge – Sajith
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, in his Deepavali message, called on all Sri Lankans to use the festival of lights as an opportunity to triumph over evil and foster goodness within society. MORE..
30-hour water cut in several areas of Galle District today
30-hour water cut in several areas of Galle District today
The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has announced that a 30-hour water cut will be implemented in several areas of the Galle District today (20). MORE..
Suspect arrested with over 9kg of Kush in Grandpass
Suspect arrested with over 9kg of Kush in Grandpass
A person was arrested in the Grandpass area of Colombo while in possession of 9 kilograms and 555 grams of Kush cannabis, police said. MORE..
Youth arrested with over 350,000 narcotic tablets in Vavuniya
Youth arrested with over 350,000 narcotic tablets in Vavuniya
Vavuniya Police have arrested a suspect in possession of 359,000 narcotic tablets concealed within a consignment of dried fish unfit for human consumption. MORE..
Israel says it will return to ceasefire after Gaza strikes
Israel says it will return to ceasefire after Gaza strikes
The Israeli military has said it will resume enforcement of the ceasefire in Gaza after launching air strikes on Sunday in response to what it called Hamas’s “blatant violation” of the deal. MORE..
‘May this Deepavali guide us toward wisdom that will sprout seeds of economic revival and reconciliation’ – PM
‘May this Deepavali guide us toward wisdom that will sprout seeds of economic revival and reconciliation’ – PM
In her message for the 2025 Deepavali Festival, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya notes that Deepavali signifies the triumph of light over darkness and comes at a time when Sri Lanka is beginning to rise from a period of economic and social hardship with renewed hope and determination. MORE..
President Anura Kumara’s Deepavali message
President Anura Kumara’s Deepavali message
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his message for the 2025 Deepavali Festival, says that the festival symbolises the triumph of righteousness and light over darkness, inspiring all to overcome challenges with unity and hope. MORE..
Flood warnings issued for low-lying areas of Deduru Oya
Flood warnings issued for low-lying areas of Deduru Oya
The Irrigation Department has issued a flood warning for several low-lying areas of Deduru Oya valley due to heavy rainfall catchment areas. MORE..
Cargo plane slides off runway in Hong Kong, media reports two dead
Cargo plane slides off runway in Hong Kong, media reports two dead
A cargo plane flying from Dubai skidded off the runway into the sea while landing at Hong Kong International Airport early on Monday, the city’s airport operator said, with local media reporting the deaths of two people. MORE..
Heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island today
Heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island today
A low-level atmospheric disturbance has developed over the south east of the Island, today (20), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Mass shooting at US University injures three, “No ongoing threat,” say police
Mass shooting at US University injures three, “No ongoing threat,” say police
A shooting at an Oklahoma State University residence hall wounded at least three people early Sunday morning, according to a university spokesperson. MORE..
Several train journeys cancelled due to derailment near Ihalakotte
Several train journeys cancelled due to derailment near Ihalakotte
The Railway Department has announced that several train journeys along the upcountry railway line will be cancelled tomorrow (20), due to a derailment near the Ihalakotte railway station today (19). MORE..
Ishara Sewwandi taken to Kilinochchi as part of Ganemulla Sanjeewa murder probe
Ishara Sewwandi taken to Kilinochchi as part of Ganemulla Sanjeewa murder probe
Ishara Sewwandi, who is in the custody of the Colombo Crime Division in connection with the murder of underworld figure Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, also known as ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’, has been taken to Kilinochchi. MORE..
Another train derailment disrupts operations on Kelani Valley Line
Another train derailment disrupts operations on Kelani Valley Line
Train services along the Kelani Valley railway line have been affected by a derailment. MORE..
New curricula for Grades 1 and 6 to be released soon – Education Ministry
New curricula for Grades 1 and 6 to be released soon – Education Ministry
The Ministry of Education has announced that the new curricula for Grades 1 and 6, under the upcoming education reforms, will be released soon. MORE..
Ex-French president Nicolas Sarkozy to start five-year prison sentence on Tuesday
Ex-French president Nicolas Sarkozy to start five-year prison sentence on Tuesday
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, set to start a five-year prison sentence on Tuesday after being convicted of attempting to raise campaign funds from Libya in 2007, said he is not afraid of going to jail, La Tribune Dimanche reported. MORE..
Two night mail trains cancelled due to derailment near Ihalakotte
Two night mail trains cancelled due to derailment near Ihalakotte
Two night mail trains scheduled to operate today (19) have been cancelled, Sri Lanka Railways has announced. MORE..
Bangladesh probes cause of massive airport fire
Bangladesh probes cause of massive airport fire
Bangladeshi traders on Sunday (Oct 19) assessed heavy losses after a devastating fire tore through the cargo complex of the country’s main international airport, as the government opened an investigation into possible arson. MORE..
RDA to install 50 km of safety fences on high-risk mountain roads
RDA to install 50 km of safety fences on high-risk mountain roads
The Road Development Authority (RDA) will install safety barriers along hazardous embankments in three mountainous regions following a recent spike in road accidents, a senior official said. MORE..
Local and foreign tourists stranded in Wilpattu National Park rescued by wildlife officers
Local and foreign tourists stranded in Wilpattu National Park rescued by wildlife officers
More than 30 local and foreign tourists who were visiting the Wilpattu National Park have been rescued by wildlife officers after being unable to return due to heavy rainfall and flooding. MORE..
Train derailment disrupts services along the Main Line
Train derailment disrupts services along the Main Line
Rail operations along the Upcountry Railway Line have been disrupted due to a derailment, according to the Department of Railways. MORE..
Landslide warnings issued for seven districts extended
Landslide warnings issued for seven districts extended
Landslide warnings issued to residents of seven districts owing to incessant rains experienced in parts of the island have been extended. MORE..
Israel strikes southern Gaza, accusing Hamas of ‘bold violation of ceasefire’
Israel strikes southern Gaza, accusing Hamas of ‘bold violation of ceasefire’
The Israeli army launched airstrikes in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Sunday despite a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, local media said. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s Yevan David wins Rookie Trophy, places 2nd overall in 2025 Euroformula Open
Sri Lanka’s Yevan David wins Rookie Trophy, places 2nd overall in 2025 Euroformula Open
Sri Lanka’s Yevan David on Sunday re-wrote history by winning the Rookie Championship title and second place overall in the 2025 Euroformula Open Championship, becoming the first Sri Lankan racer to achieve both. MORE..
Increase in rainfall expected after Tuesday: Met. Department
Increase in rainfall expected after Tuesday: Met. Department
Rainfall is expected to increase after Tuesday (21), the Department of Meteorology stated. MORE..
Limp Bizkit bassist Sam Rivers dies aged 48
Limp Bizkit bassist Sam Rivers dies aged 48
Sam Rivers, the bassist and founding member of US nu metal band Limp Bizkit, has died at the age of 48. MORE..
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith stresses the importance of spiritual development
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith stresses the importance of spiritual development
Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has emphasised that people must undergo spiritual development, calling on everyone to commit themselves to living in accordance with religious teachings. MORE..
Twelve including nine children injured in Ragama bus accident
Twelve including nine children injured in Ragama bus accident
Twelve individuals, including nine children, have been injured in a bus accident reported in Batuwatta, Ragama. MORE..
World-famous Louvre museum in Paris closed after robbery
World-famous Louvre museum in Paris closed after robbery
The Louvre museum in Paris has been closed following a robbery, according to France’s culture minister. MORE..
Foreign national arrested for cultivating ‘Kush’ cannabis in rented house in Akmeemana
Foreign national arrested for cultivating ‘Kush’ cannabis in rented house in Akmeemana
A Belarusian national has been apprehended for cultivating ‘Kush’ cannabis in a rented house in Akmeemana, police stated. MORE..
National Deepavali festival held in Hatton
National Deepavali festival held in Hatton
The National Deepavali Festival was held at the Sri Manikka Pillayar Kovil in Hatton this morning, in view of the Deepavali festival which falls tomorrow. MORE..
Matugama woman who sheltered Ishara Sewwandi remanded
Matugama woman who sheltered Ishara Sewwandi remanded
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the remand of a woman from Matugama who had been arrested for allegedly providing accommodation to Ishara Sewwandi, until October 24. MORE..
50 bullets found following interrogation of ‘Gampaha Baba’
50 bullets found following interrogation of ‘Gampaha Baba’
According to information obtained from a suspect known as ‘Gampaha Baba’, a member of an organized criminal gang who was recently arrested in Nepal and brought to the island, 50 rounds of T-56 ammunition have been recovered. MORE..
ICTA provides update on Lanka Government Cloud service disruptions
ICTA provides update on Lanka Government Cloud service disruptions
The Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka has issued an update on the ongoing partial disruption affecting the Lanka Government Cloud (LGC) services, as outlined in its initial media release. MORE..
Sri Lanka reports 35 malaria cases so far this year
Sri Lanka reports 35 malaria cases so far this year
The Anti Malaria Campaign has reported that a total of 35 malaria cases have been identified in Sri Lanka so far this year, with one fatality recorded. MORE..
Sri Lanka launches GIS-based rubber land mapping program
Sri Lanka launches GIS-based rubber land mapping program
The Rubber Development Department and the Survey Department of Sri Lanka have jointly initiated a rubber land mapping program utilizing innovative Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. MORE..
30-hour water cut in several areas of Galle District
30-hour water cut in several areas of Galle District
The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has announced that a 30-hour water cut will be implemented in several areas of the Galle District tomorrow (20). MORE..
PM Harini returns after concluding visit to India
PM Harini returns after concluding visit to India
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has returned to Sri Lanka after completing an official diplomatic visit to India. MORE..
Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to ceasefire after days of deadly clashes
Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to ceasefire after days of deadly clashes
Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said Sunday. It follows more than a week of fighting that has killed dozens of people and injured hundreds. MORE..
Re-scrutinized results of 2025 Scholarship Exam released
Re-scrutinized results of 2025 Scholarship Exam released
The re-scrutinized results of the 2025 Grade 5 Scholarship Examination, have been released online, according to the Department of Examinations. MORE..
Few showers expected in parts of the island today
Few showers expected in parts of the island today
Showers or thundershowers will occur at most parts of the island after 1.00 p.m, today (19), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..
Sri Lanka to seek Interpol Red Notices for athletes who fled 2022 C’wealth Games
Sri Lanka to seek Interpol Red Notices for athletes who fled 2022 C’wealth Games
Sri Lanka will seek Interpol red notices for the arrest of athletes who fled the 2022 Commonwealth Games village in Birmingham and failed to return home, a court was informed. MORE..
Fishermen issue requires sensitive handling and sustainable solutions, says PM Harini in India
Fishermen issue requires sensitive handling and sustainable solutions, says PM Harini in India
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya highlighted Colombo’s concern over Indian fishermen venturing into the island nation’s waters, even as she pitched her country as a “complimentary” partner for India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision. MORE..
Parliament to debate drug price regulations next week
Parliament to debate drug price regulations next week
Parliament is scheduled to debate the regulations pertaining to the control of drug prices on 21 October 2025. MORE..
Police obtain 90-day detention order on ‘Ishara Sewwandi’
Police obtain 90-day detention order on ‘Ishara Sewwandi’
The Ministry of Defence has granted permission for the police to detain and interrogate ‘Ishara Sewwandi’ for 90 days. MORE..
Over 650 suspects arrested during special island-wide police raids
Over 650 suspects arrested during special island-wide police raids
Sri Lanka Police announced that a total of 654 suspects were arrested during island-wide operations within yesterday. MORE..
Fire breaks out at Dhaka Airport; All flights suspended
Fire breaks out at Dhaka Airport; All flights suspended
A major fire broke out at the cargo terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday, forcing the suspension of all flights. MORE..
Six spill gates of Rajanganaya Reservoir opened by 6 feet
Six spill gates of Rajanganaya Reservoir opened by 6 feet
The Department of Irrigation has reported that six spill gates of Rajanganaya reservoir are currently open due to heavy rainfall in the island. MORE..
NTC implements special bus service for long weekend
NTC implements special bus service for long weekend
The National Transport Commission (NTC) has announced that a special bus operation plan will be implemented for the upcoming long weekend and the Deepavali festival which falls on 20 October 2025. MORE..
President says aware that some individuals within political and state machinery involved in drug-related activities
President says aware that some individuals within political and state machinery involved in drug-related activities
During the ceremony for the Presentation of the President’s Colours to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) and the Commissioning of Cadet Officers, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the newly commissioned officers, emphasizing the significance of their responsibilities. MORE..
Court backlogs to be cleared by December 31 - Judicial Service Commission
Court backlogs to be cleared by December 31 - Judicial Service Commission
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has issued a circular informing that all pending case backlogs in courts must be cleared on or before 31 December 2025. MORE..
Suspect wanted over Borella shooting nabbed at BIA
Suspect wanted over Borella shooting nabbed at BIA
A suspect has been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake in connection with the recent shooting incident in the Kader Nana Watte area in Borella, while attempting to leave the country for Dubai, police said. MORE..
Ishara Sewwandi taken out of CCD again for further investigations
Ishara Sewwandi taken out of CCD again for further investigations
The wanted fugitive Ishara Sewwandi, who was recently arrested in Nepal and extradited to Sri Lanka, has been taken out of the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) today for further investigations, police said. MORE..
Nvidia unveils first Blackwell chip wafer made with TSMC in US
Nvidia unveils first Blackwell chip wafer made with TSMC in US
Nvidia uveiled on Friday the first U.S.-made Blackwell wafer, produced at TSMC’s semiconductor manufacturing facility in Phoenix, as demand for AI chips accelerates. MORE..
David Attenborough, 99, breaks record as oldest Daytime Emmy winner
David Attenborough, 99, breaks record as oldest Daytime Emmy winner
Paul Telfer of “Days of Our Lives” and Nancy Lee Grahn of “General Hospital” won lead acting honors at the Daytime Emmys on Friday, with ABC’s “General Hospital” claiming six trophies in the major categories, including drama series. MORE..
China and US agree to fresh trade talks
China and US agree to fresh trade talks
China and the United States agreed on Saturday (Oct 18) to conduct another round of trade negotiations in the coming week, as the world’s two biggest economies seek to avoid another damaging tit-for-tat tariff battle. MORE..
Port City Colombo named Asia-Pacific’s Best Knowledge Zone for 2025
Port City Colombo named Asia-Pacific’s Best Knowledge Zone for 2025
Port City Colombo (PCC) has been named the Best Knowledge Zone in Asia-Pacific at the Global Free Zones of the Year 2025 awards organised by fDi Intelligence, a division of the Financial Times. MORE..
Tamil medium schools in two provinces to get special holiday on Tuesday
Tamil medium schools in two provinces to get special holiday on Tuesday
A special holiday has been declared for all Tamil medium schools in the Central and Uva provinces on 21 October (Tuesday) in view of the Deepavali festival which falls on 20 October (Monday). MORE..
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 20,000
Gold prices in Sri Lanka drop by Rs. 20,000
Market data indicates that the price of gold in Sri Lanka has decreased by around Rs. 20,000 compared to yesterday (17). MORE..
Landslide warnings extended for 11 districts
Landslide warnings extended for 11 districts
Early landslide warnings issued by the National Building and Research Organisation (NBRO) for multiple areas in eleven districts have been extended, as heavy rainfall continues across parts of the island. MORE..
Attorney Gunaratne Wanninayake appears before Mt Lavinia Police
Attorney Gunaratne Wanninayake appears before Mt Lavinia Police
Attorney-at-Law Gunaratne Wanninayake has arrived at the Mount Lavinia Police today to give a statement regarding an incident involving the threatening and obstruction of duties of a police constable at the Mount Lavinia Magistrate’s Court premises. MORE..
Several spill gates of Rajanganaya and Angamuwa tanks opened
Several spill gates of Rajanganaya and Angamuwa tanks opened
The Director of Water Management, Eng. H.M.P.S.D. Herath, has reported that the Rajanganaya and Angamuwa reservoirs are currently open due to heavy rainfall in the region. MORE..
Sri Lanka records over 1.8 mln tourist arrivals so far in 2025
Sri Lanka records over 1.8 mln tourist arrivals so far in 2025
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) reports that the number of foreign tourist arrivals to the country in 2025 has surpassed 1.8 million as of October 15. MORE..
Britain’s Prince Andrew gives up title of Duke of York
Britain’s Prince Andrew gives up title of Duke of York
Britain’s Prince Andrew said on Friday he would give up using his title of Duke of York following years of criticism about his behaviour and connections to the late U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. MORE..
Suspect arrested with over Rs. 3 mln in cash from drug trafficking
Suspect arrested with over Rs. 3 mln in cash from drug trafficking
A suspect has been arrested in Polonnaruwa while in possession of Rs. 3,024,900 in cash, believed to have been earned through drug trafficking, police said. MORE..
Prison Jailor arrested for aiding drug and phone supply to inmate
Prison Jailor arrested for aiding drug and phone supply to inmate
A Prison Jailor has been arrested by the Kalutara North Police for allegedly aiding and abetting a woman in an attempt to supply narcotics and mobile phones to an inmate at the Kalutara Prison. MORE..
Afghanistan pull out of tri-nation series after Pakistani airstrikes kill 3 cricketers
Afghanistan pull out of tri-nation series after Pakistani airstrikes kill 3 cricketers
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) pulled out of the upcoming Tri-Nation Series involving Pakistan and Sri Lanka amid the ongoing military tensions with Pakistan. MORE..
After Zelenskyy meeting, Trump calls on Ukraine and Russia to ‘stop where they are’ and end the war
After Zelenskyy meeting, Trump calls on Ukraine and Russia to ‘stop where they are’ and end the war
President Donald Trump on Friday called on Kyiv and Moscow to “stop where they are” and end their brutal war following a lengthy White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. MORE..
Heavy showers above 100mm expected in parts of the island today
Heavy showers above 100mm expected in parts of the island today
The Meteorology Department states that showers or thundershowers will occur in most parts of the island after 1.00 p.m. MORE..
Pakistan, Afghanistan extend ceasefire as Doha talks set to begin, sources say
Pakistan, Afghanistan extend ceasefire as Doha talks set to begin, sources say
Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed on Friday to extend their 48-hour ceasefire until the conclusion of talks in Doha, according to three Pakistani security officials and one Afghan Taliban source. MORE..
India’s neighbourhood first policy helping all: Sri Lanka PM At NDTV World Summit
India’s neighbourhood first policy helping all: Sri Lanka PM At NDTV World Summit
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said today that India’s neighbourhood first policy is helping all the neighbouring countries. MORE..
‘Glad that President heeded our consistent critique of Penal Code amendment’ – Dilith
‘Glad that President heeded our consistent critique of Penal Code amendment’ – Dilith
‘Sarvajana Balaya’ leader and Member of Parliament Dilith Jayaweera says he is glad that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has heeded their consistent critique of a policy measure that would have “irreversibly harmed the growth of Sri Lanka’s primary and secondary education.” MORE..
President convenes National Operations Council for ‘Ratama Ekata’ anti-drug program for first time
President convenes National Operations Council for ‘Ratama Ekata’ anti-drug program for first time
The National Operations Council for the “Ratama Ekata - National Operation” convened for the first time today (17) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to implement a national program aimed at eradicating the drug menace, a national disaster currently facing the country, the PMD reported. MORE..
Heavy traffic on several roads in Colombo due to rain
Heavy traffic on several roads in Colombo due to rain
Severe traffic congestion has been reported on several roads in Colombo due to the prevailing heavy rains. MORE..
Three including police officer arrested for sheltering Ishara Sewwandi
Three including police officer arrested for sheltering Ishara Sewwandi
Three suspects including a Police Constable, his mother-in-law and a close associate of an organised criminal have been arrested for allegedly sheltering Ishara Sewwandi, the wanted fugitive who was recently arrested in Nepal and brought back to Sri Lanka. MORE..
BYD makes largest recall of over 115,000 older model cars
BYD makes largest recall of over 115,000 older model cars
Chinese car maker BYD will make its largest recall yet of more than 115,000 Tang series and Yuan Pro vehicles produced between 2015 and 2022 due to design defects and battery-related safety risks, China’s market regulator said on Friday. MORE..
New subsidised air ticket counter launched for migrant workers
New subsidised air ticket counter launched for migrant workers
A new ticket counter offering air tickets at subsidised prices has been launched at the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Agency (SLFEA) in Narahenpita, in accordance with the government’s new program for migrant workers leaving for foreign employment. MORE..
ASPI records new all-time high
ASPI records new all-time high
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) achieved a historic milestone today (17), as the All Share Price Index (ASPI) surpassed the 22,500-point mark for the first time in history. MORE..