In the ICC Champions Trophy final, the strong New Zealand team set a target of 252 runs for India to chase in order to secure victory.
The match is currently taking place in Dubai. Winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat first. Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell contributed 63 and 53 runs, respectively.
In the last ten overs, New Zealand added 79 runs for the loss of two wickets, strengthening their position.
At the end of their allotted 50 overs, New Zealand posted a total of 251 for seven wickets. For India, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav each took two wickets.
District Farmers’ representatives on behalf of 1.1 million farmers across the island, have urged President Gotabaya Rajapaksa not to reverse the steps taken to use organic fertilizer. The farmers’ representatives highlighted that it was their absolute duty and responsibility to return to the traditional farming methods and provide the people with a non-toxic healthy diet. They added that citizenry will be grateful to the President for his decision to nourish a healthy next generation for Sri Lanka. The farmers’ representatives assured President Rajapaksa that all the farmers in the country would support the President in overcoming the challenge of going for an agriculture based on organic fertilizer, as a team, for the benefit of all people in Sri Lanka just like the country once faced the challenge of concluding the war against terrorism. I
The Illegal Assets Investigation Division has taken initial steps to freeze properties worth over Rs. 160 million belonging to two suspected underworld drug traffickers, in a move made on June 27.
According to police, the assets belong to Kondha Ajith of Kadana—identified as a key figure in the drug network of “Batuwatte Chamara”—and another suspect known as “Junda” from Borella. Authorities believe these properties were acquired through illegal drug trafficking operations.
Among the frozen assets are:
A four-storey house in Kadana
Two two-storey houses and a three-storey house in Borella
A Japanese Alto car
A Wagon R type vehicle
The police stated that these actions are part of broader efforts to crack down on narcotics-related organized crime by targeting ill-gotten wealth. Further investigations are ongoing.
A 65-year-old domestic worker employed at the residence of former Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva in Elvitigala Mawatha, Borella, has died following a tragic elevator accident, police confirmed.
According to the Borella Police, the woman sustained serious injuries after her head became trapped between the slab of the upper floor and the door of the elevator while she was traveling inside the lift.
The accident occurred yesterday evening (June 28). The injured woman was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly after admission.
Investigations revealed that the woman had been traveling to the first floor of the house in the elevator when her head protruded outside the lift, leading to the fatal mishap.
The deceased has been identified as a resident of Stacepura, Grandpass.
Illegal narcotics valued at approximately Rs. 23 billion were seized while being smuggled into Sri Lanka via fishing boats through maritime routes during April and May, according to the Police Media Division.
The seizures occurred during four separate raids targeting long-distance fishing vessels. A total of 25 suspects were arrested in connection with the trafficking operations.
Authorities confiscated 542 kilograms of heroin and 1,216 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (Ice) during the operations.
On April 5, police seized 191 kg of heroin and 671 kg of Ice along with 8 suspects.
On April 12, a further 77 kg of heroin and 42 kg of Ice were seized, with 6 suspects arrested.
On May 28, 166 kg of heroin and 253 kg of Ice were seized in one operation, while another 108 kg of heroin and 250 kg of Ice were seized the same day, leading to the arrest of 11 suspects in total.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities intensify efforts to curb large-scale drug smuggling via sea routes.
Sri Lanka secured a dominant innings and 78-run victory over Bangladesh in the second Test, wrapping up the match in just 28 minutes on the fourth morning. With this win, Sri Lanka clinched the two-match Test series 1-0 and earned crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship (2025–27).
Bangladesh, resuming at 117 for 6, were bowled out for just 133 in their second innings, following a first innings total of 247. In reply, Sri Lanka had posted a formidable 458, thanks to standout contributions from Pathum Nissanka (158), Dinesh Chandimal (93), and Kusal Mendis (84).
Jayasuriya Spins Web Around Bangladesh
It was Prabath Jayasuriya who delivered the killer blows on the final morning, taking 5 for 56 – his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The left-arm spinner dismantled the Bangladesh lower order, with key support from wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, who returned to the field after nursing a shoulder injury.
Jayasuriya struck with just his third ball of the morning, dismissing Litton Das, and followed up by removing Nayeem Hasan, who was stumped after being deceived in flight. He completed his five-for by catching a return offering from Taijul Islam, while Tharindu Ratnayake cleaned up the innings by trapping Ebadot Hossain lbw.
Bangladesh Lose Grip Early
In total, nine wickets fell to spin in the innings, with Dhananjaya de Silva and Ratnayake sharing the remaining scalps. Despite a bright spell from Taijul Islam (5 for 131) in Sri Lanka’s innings, Bangladesh’s poor first innings and wayward bowling allowed the hosts to seize control early.
Nissanka Stars with the Bat
While the bowlers finished the job, the star of the match was Pathum Nissanka, who was named both Player of the Match for his classy 158 and Player of the Series, having also scored 187 in the first Test in Galle. His consistency at the top provided Sri Lanka with the solid foundation they needed to dominate both matches.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shani Abeysekara has been appointed as the new Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), according to official sources.
The appointment was made with the approval of the National Police Commission.
Prior to this, SSP Abeysekara served as the Director of the Criminal Intelligence Analysis and Prevention Division on a contract basis.
He previously held the position of CID Director from 2017 to 2019, and was reinstated to the police service in October 2024 under the administration of the National People’s Power (NPP) government.
The appointment has triggered mixed reactions on social media. Some view the move as a positive step that could strengthen CID investigations, while others allege that Abeysekara is closely aligned with the NPP’s political platform, raising concerns about potential misuse of the CID for political purposes.
Let me know if you’d like it shortened for social media or formatted for print.
The Attorney General Yesterday (26) filed indictments before a special three-judge High Court Trial-at-Bar in Colombo against former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and 11 other accused over the fraudulent purchase of substandard immunoglobulin and rituximab vaccines worth Rs. 1.45 billion.
The case involves the alleged submission of forged documents under an Indian loan scheme to import the vaccines for distribution to government hospitals. These vaccines—used for neurological and cancer patients—were reportedly purchased without proper standards.
Thirteen indictments have been filed, including accusations of misappropriation of public funds and conspiracy to misuse Rs. 144.4 million by delivering 6,195 bottles of non-medicinal substances labeled as medicine to the Ministry of Health.
The witness list includes nearly 350 individuals, among them former President Ranil Wickremesinghe and several former Cabinet Ministers such as Nimal Siripala de Silva, Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, Douglas Devananda, and Roshan Ranasinghe.
Also named are Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama, Chairman of the National Medicines Regulatory Authority, and a team of other medical professionals.
Approximately 300 items of evidence have been submitted. Given the high public interest, the Chief Justice appointed a special Trial-at-Bar comprising Judges Mahesh Weeraman, Pradeep Abeyratne, and Amali Ranawira to hear the case.
The Department of Examinations has announced that the 2025 G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination will be held from November 10 to December 5.
Accordingly, applications for the examination will be accepted online from today (June 26) until July 21.
All school candidates must apply through their respective principals, while private candidates are required to submit applications online according to the specified guidelines.
Private applicants must submit their National Identity Card and relevant information when applying.
Applications can be submitted via the official websites of the Department of Examinations: 👉 www.doenets.lk 👉 www.onlineexams.gov.lk/eic
Sri Lanka’s Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) has approved the importation of casino gaming machines as a measure to increase tax revenue, opening the door for casino magnate Dhammika Perera to further consolidate his dominance in the country’s gambling industry.
The decision marks a significant shift in Sri Lanka’s policy landscape as the nation continues efforts to stabilize its economy following a turbulent financial crisis. Previously restricted under emergency import controls, casino equipment will now be allowed into the country, but only for institutions registered under tourism promotion and licensed casino operations.
According to Daily Mirror, CoPF member Ravi Karunanayake noted that the committee’s decision was based purely on financial grounds. “We looked at the revenue potential, not the social impact,” he said. “The committee’s job was to assess how this could help the government earn revenue.”
CoPF Chairman Harsha de Silva separately announced that a new monitoring system would be introduced to track each machine imported. He emphasized the need for oversight, warning that without it, the reintroduction of such imports could open the door to unregulated gambling activities, including junket operations and untaxed online casinos. De Silva pointed to Singapore’s regulatory model as a potential benchmark for Sri Lanka.
Industry observers are pointing to Dhammika Perera, who controls three of Colombo’s top casinos—Bally’s, Bellagio, and The Ritz Club—as the biggest beneficiary of the government’s new direction. Known as Sri Lanka’s “Casino King,” Perera has long lobbied for clear, updated legislation to modernize and expand the industry. His vast business empire spans hospitality, finance, and manufacturing, making him a key figure in any large-scale tourism or gaming initiative.
The gambling sector in Sri Lanka remains governed by the Betting and Gaming Levy Act No. 40 of 1988 and the Casino Business Regulation Act No. 17 of 2010. However, full implementation of those laws has lagged. In response, the government introduced the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act earlier this year, designed to unify and tighten control over both land-based and online gambling.
The Act aims to enforce Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols, Know Your Customer (KYC) rules, and promote responsible gambling practices. It also seeks to improve tax collection, address unlicensed operations, and prevent potential criminal activity tied to the casino industry.
The government has informed bus unions that bus fares will be reduced by 2% starting July 1, in line with the annual fare revision.
However, several unions, including the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association, have voiced strong opposition to the move. The National Transport Commission has clarified that the reduction will not affect the minimum or second-tier fare brackets.
The decision was discussed at a meeting held at the Ministry of Transport in Battaramulla, chaired by Minister Bimal Rathnayake.
The Cabinet has approved the procurement of 200 new high-end luxury buses for Sri Lanka’s expressway operations.
Due to the current shortage of buses, 61 luxury buses from the private sector are already operating on a revenue-sharing model. According to the proposal presented by the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, around 52% of SLTB buses and nearly 94% of existing luxury buses have exceeded their economic lifespan.
Accordingly, depots with financial capacity will purchase 291 luxury buses directly, while the remaining buses will be acquired over five years through revenue-generated installment payments.
Starting July 1, the Sri Lankan government will enforce stricter laws to protect children from exploitation, including begging, street vending, domestic labor, and other hazardous employment.
The Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Women and Child Affairs to strengthen legal action against the involvement of children in such activities. According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, anyone under 18 years is defined as a child. Recent data shows that 30% of the country’s population are children.
Under the new regulations, employing children under 16 for begging or trade is completely banned. It will also be illegal to employ children aged 16–18 in domestic or hazardous labor. The move comes in response to reports highlighting ongoing exploitation of minors in these sectors.
A specialist neurosurgeon at Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital has been accused of selling surgical equipment to around 300 patients at inflated prices, including performing surgeries on deceased individuals, according to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).
It was revealed in court that the doctor sold a surgical item worth Rs. 50,000 for Rs. 175,000 through her private institution. Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga was told that the doctor bypassed hospital procurement processes, causing losses of over Rs. 300 million to patients by making them buy surgical supplies privately.
CIABOC also revealed that 77 patients have already suffered losses due to this malpractice, while 92 others have lodged complaints via phone. Three suspects, including the doctor, are currently in remand custody as investigations continue.
President Donald J. Trump announced a major U.S. military success early Sunday after American forces carried out coordinated air and missile strikes on three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities. The unprecedented escalation drew the U.S. directly into the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran and sparked immediate retaliation from Tehran.
In a televised address from the White House, President Trump said the objective was the “complete destruction of Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity,” claiming that the targeted sites had been “completely and totally obliterated.”
“Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace,” Trump declared. “If they do not, future attacks will be far greater and a lot easier.”
The strikes hit Iran’s fortified nuclear sites at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan — facilities central to the country’s uranium enrichment program. Pentagon officials said the operation included six B-2 bombers dropping 30,000-pound bunker buster bombs, while Navy submarines launched 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles. It was the first time the U.S. has used such bunker busters in combat.
Iran responded within hours, firing missiles at Israel, injuring at least 16 people and triggering nationwide air raid sirens. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. action as an act of war, accusing Washington of destroying diplomatic progress.
“We have to respond based on our legitimate right of self-defense,” Araghchi said at a news conference in Istanbul. He added that Iran was “considering all options,” including potential threats to U.S. bases in the Middle East.
Key Developments
Global Reactions: Russia condemned the strikes, and President Vladimir Putin is expected to meet Iran’s foreign minister on Monday. European leaders urged restraint.
U.S. Troops on Alert: More than 40,000 American troops stationed in the region are now on high alert amid fears of further retaliation.
Israeli Role: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the strikes were carried out in “full coordination” with the Israeli military. Israel later launched additional strikes on Iranian military targets.
Radiation Risk: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported no abnormal radiation levels after the attacks. Iranian officials said the Fordo facility had been evacuated prior to impact.
Divided U.S. Response:
In Washington, the military action drew mixed responses. Republicans praised Trump’s decision as a firm stand against Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Democrats and some GOP lawmakers, however, criticized the strikes as unconstitutional and warned of possible escalation into a broader regional war.
The strikes appear to mark a turning point in U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, raising the specter of a prolonged and dangerous confrontation in the Middle East. The Pentagon has scheduled a press briefing for 8 a.m. Eastern time to provide further details. Source – The New York Times
GALLE, June 20 – The National People’s Power (NPP), known locally as Malimawa, has teamed up with the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) to secure control of the Galle Municipal Council, which lacked a clear majority until now.
As a result of this new alliance, NPP’s Sunil Gamage of Halvitigala was elected Mayor of Galle through a secret ballot, while former Mayor Priyantha Sahabandu was unanimously elected as Deputy Mayor.
This coalition effectively defeated Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) candidate Mohamed Mawsuf Mohamed, who had contested for the mayoral post.
Due to no party securing more than 50% representation, the selection process was overseen by Southern Province Commissioner of Local Government Erandi Umanga Mandis, who convened the councillors today (20) to vote.
Only two candidates were nominated for Mayor — Sunil Gamage from the NPP and Mohamed Mawsuf Mohamed from the SJB. A dispute arose over whether the vote should be open or by secret ballot. While most parties favored an open vote, the NPP demanded a secret ballot. The Commissioner ruled in favor of a secret vote after a majority of councillors supported the proposal via marked paper slips.
Nineteen members voted in favor of a secret ballot, while 17 preferred an open vote, leading to heightened tensions. A heated argument ensued between councillors from the SJB, UNP, and SLPP, particularly directed at Priyantha Sahabandu.
As chaos erupted in the chamber, Commissioner Mandis temporarily adjourned the session for 30 minutes and summoned police officers for security. When the session resumed, councillors from the SJB, UNP, and SLPP were notably absent. The voting proceeded in their absence.
In the end, Sunil Gamage secured 19 votes to become Mayor, while the SJB candidate received none. One vote was rejected. Following this, the council unanimously appointed former Mayor Priyantha Sahabandu as Deputy Mayor.
The 9th China-South Asia Expo commenced today (June 19) in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southwestern China, under the theme “Unity, Cooperation, and Development.” The event will continue until June 24 and is recognized as a key platform for economic and trade engagement between China and South Asian nations.
Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, Wang Dongming, addressed the opening ceremony, emphasizing China’s commitment to working closely with South Asian countries to promote peace, prosperity, and shared development. He highlighted China’s openness to deepening practical cooperation across sectors and to building a community with a shared future alongside neighboring nations.
In recent years, China and South Asia have strengthened their collaborative ties through openness and mutual participation, enhancing practical cooperation in various sectors. Wang Dongming reiterated China’s vision of advancing regional unity under five key pillars — peace, tranquility, prosperity, beauty, and friendship — to create a brighter shared future.
This year’s Expo features 11 thematic halls, showcasing high-end manufacturing, clean energy, and modern agriculture. Notably, Sri Lanka has been named the theme country of the 2024 Expo, with around 100 Sri Lankan entrepreneurs participating. Their exhibits include gemstones and jewelry, Ceylon tea, batik products, coconut-based goods, and spices.
A high-level Sri Lankan delegation led by the Minister of Trade is attending the event, representing the Sri Lankan government and further enhancing the island nation’s trade diplomacy efforts in the region.
Former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, along with his wife Kusum Rambukwella and daughter Amali Rambukwella, was arrested today (June 18) by officials of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption.
Their arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged misuse of public funds amounting to Rs. 8 million during Keheliya Rambukwella’s tenure as a minister, specifically involving salary and overtime payments to members of his personal staff.
Authorities say the wife and daughter were taken into custody for aiding and abetting in connection with the misappropriation.
Previously, Keheliya’s son, Ramith Rambukwella, was also arrested by the same commission over related allegations. He is currently in remand custody following his court appearance.
North Korea is set to dispatch over six thousand military-linked personnel to Russia’s Kursk region. This move has drawn serious concern from Western governments amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to high-level discussions held in Pyongyang, North Korean engineers and military-affiliated workers will be supporting Russian reconstruction efforts in areas damaged by months of warfare. Around 1,000 are reportedly tasked with clearing landmines, while 5,000 others will focus on rebuilding infrastructure in the conflict-ravaged region.
The initiative was revealed following a security dialogue between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and a senior Russian official, who visited the country under direct orders from President Vladimir Putin. The talks centered on strategic cooperation and regional security, with military support topping the agenda.
This follows earlier reports of North Korean combat forces already being active in the Russian-Ukrainian theater, signaling a dramatic escalation in Pyongyang’s involvement in Moscow’s military operations.
Both countries appear to be strengthening ties under a broad strategic partnership agreement signed last year, prompting alarm among Seoul and Washington. South Korean authorities voiced clear opposition to the deployment, while calling for an immediate halt to what they describe as illegal military collaboration.
The United States echoed those concerns, warning that North Korea’s labor and troop deployments directly fuel its banned weapons programs. U.S. officials emphasized that the move violates United Nations Security Council resolutions, as the income generated supports Pyongyang’s ballistic missile and nuclear development.
As international scrutiny mounts, the North Korea–Russia alliance continues to evolve, potentially reshaping the strategic landscape in Northeast Asia and beyond.
Bangladesh, batting first in the opening Test against Sri Lanka, have reached a strong position at 280 for 3 wickets.
The match is being held at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, where Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first. Sri Lanka claimed their first wicket when the score was just 5 and reduced the visitors to 45 for 3 early on.
However, a brilliant partnership for the fourth wicket between skipper Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim rescued the innings, with the duo putting together a stand worth over 200 runs.
Shanto remains unbeaten on 129, while Rahim is close to his century with 100 not out. Bangladesh: 280/3 in 86 overs.
Vraie Cally Balthazar, representing the National People’s Power (NPP), was today (16) elected as the Mayor of Colombo with a majority of votes.
Mr. Hemanta Kumara, also from the NPP, was elected as the Deputy Mayor.
The official inauguration of the newly elected 117 members of the Colombo Municipal Council, who were chosen during the local government elections held on the 6th, took place today (16) at the Colombo Municipal Council’s main assembly hall.
The session was chaired by the Western Province Commissioner of Local Government, Ms. Sarangika Kalhari Jayasundara, with the primary agenda being the selection of a Mayor.
During the secret ballot, Ms. Vraie Cally Balthazar secured 61 votes, while Mr. Riza Sarook, the mayoral candidate representing the National Unity Alliance, received 54 votes.
This year’s local government elections resulted in a closely contested race for the mayoral position in the Colombo Municipal Council, as no single party secured a clear majority. The ruling party managed to win only 48 seats, falling short of a majority, which contributed to the intense competition.
Out of all votes cast, only two were rejected, while 13 votes from opposition members went in favor of the NPP candidate—an outcome that drew particular attention.
Tensions rose within the council over whether the vote for the Mayor should be conducted via a secret ballot or an open vote. When the Municipal Commissioner posed the question, the NPP proposed a secret ballot, while the United People’s Power suggested an open vote.
Eventually, the opposition proposed that the selection of the Mayor proceed via secret ballot, a motion that received unanimous approval.
As a result, the new Mayor was officially elected through a confidential vote.
Ending a 27-year wait for an ICC title, South Africa scripted history at Lord’s on Saturday as Aiden Markram’s brilliant century powered them to an emphatic five-wicket victory over former champions Australia, securing their maiden ICC World Test Championship mace.
Aiden Markram
The Proteas comfortably chased down the remaining 69 runs on the fourth morning at Lord’s, with wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne striking the winning runs to seal South Africa’s first men’s senior ICC title since 1998.
Opener Aiden Markram spearheaded the chase with a commanding 136 off 207 balls, anchoring South Africa’s pursuit alongside captain Temba Bavuma, whose gritty 66, despite battling a hamstring niggle, proved vital. The duo’s 144-run partnership steadied the innings as South Africa resumed the fourth day on 213/2.
Australia managed to delay the inevitable with a couple of quick wickets of Bavuma and then Tristan Stubbs (8), before Markram and David Bedingham (21 not out) almost took them near the finish line. Bavuma (66) was removed by Australian counterpart Pat Cummins in the third over of the day as the Aussies sniffed a potential lifeline and then Mitchell Starc pierced the defences of Tristan Stubbs (8) when 41 runs were still required.
Just as he had on the pivotal third day, Markram remained composed, patiently waiting for loose deliveries to punish and made batting look effortless as South Africa edged closer to their target. His calm approach didn’t waver even after the dismissals of Bavuma and Stubbs, and when he eventually fell to Josh Hazlewood with the win in sight, it only gave him the chance to soak in the moment and earn a well-deserved standing ovation from the appreciative Lord’s crowd.
While Markram rightfully earned the plaudits for his match-winning knock, South Africa’s triumph was built on all-round contributions from across the XI. Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada played an equally vital role, finishing with nine wickets across both innings to keep Australia in check and drive the team towards a historic victory.
Both Markram and Rabada played together when South Africa won the ICC Men’s Under 19 Cricket World Cup in 2014 and this victory is just rewards for the pair and a South African team that have had so many close misses in the knockout stages of ICC events in recent times.
Just last year South Africa fell agonisingly short with victory in sight in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup against India and there were some nervy moments at Lord’s as the Aussies made a pair of breakthroughs on Saturday as the target of 282 was slowly diminished.
Australia’s experienced bowling attack was in excellent form for the entire match and it took the innings of Markram’s lifetime to quell them as South Africa broke their lengthy trophy drought in style in the Ultimate Test.
Brief scores: Australia 212 and 207 in 65 overs (Mitchell Starc 58, Alex Carey 43; Kagiso Rabada 4-59, Lungi Ngidi 3-38) lost to South Africa 138 and 282/5 in 83.4 overs (Aiden Markram 136, Temba Bavuma 66, Wiaan Mulder 27, David Bedingham 21
Flight bound for London’s Gatwick | Plane hit doctors’ hostel | At least one survivor | First fatal Boeing 787-8 crash
AHMEDABAD, India, June 12 (Reuters) – In one of the worst aviation disasters in over a decade, more than 290 people were killed Thursday when an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, headed for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from the western Indian city of Ahmedabad, authorities said.
The aircraft, carrying 242 people, slammed into a doctors’ hostel at a local medical college during lunch hour, killing both passengers and students on the ground. Debris was scattered across the smoldering building, with the plane’s tail lodged atop the structure.
“This includes some students, as the plane crashed on the building where they were staying,” said senior police official Vidhi Chaudhary. “One male passenger survived and has been hospitalized.”
The sole known survivor, Ramesh Viswashkumar, who was seated near an emergency exit in seat 11A, described a loud noise moments after takeoff. “When I got up, there were bodies all around me,” he said from his hospital bed. “I was scared. I ran until someone grabbed me and put me in an ambulance.”
Among the dead was Vijay Rupani, former chief minister of Gujarat. Authorities have requested DNA samples from relatives to assist with identification.
Aircraft Was Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
The crash marks the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which entered commercial service in 2011. Flight data from Flightradar24 showed the aircraft was delivered to Air India in 2014 after its first flight in 2013.
The manifest included 217 adults, 11 children, and 2 infants, with passengers reportedly comprising 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian, a source told Reuters.
The plane departed at 1:39 p.m. local time (0809 GMT) and issued a Mayday signal shortly after takeoff before disappearing from radar.
Investigation Launched, Leaders React
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hails from Gujarat, called the crash “heartbreaking beyond words.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the scene as “devastating,” while King Charles is being kept informed, according to Buckingham Palace.According to Buckingham Palace, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the scene as “devastating,” while King Charles is being kept informed
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board will lead a team of investigators to assist Indian authorities. Boeing said it is in contact with Air India and gathering more details. The company’s stock dropped 5% following the incident.
GE Aerospace, which manufactures the plane’s engines, is also deploying a technical team to analyze flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
India’s Worst Air Disaster in Years
Ahmedabad Airport suspended flights temporarily but has resumed limited operations. The last fatal crash in India occurred in 2020, when an Air India Express Boeing 737 overshot the runway in Kozhikode, killing 21.
Air India, once state-owned, was acquired by the Tata Group in 2022 and merged with full-service carrier Vistara in 2024.
Colombo – A 42-year-old man has been arrested by the Wellawatte Police in connection with a threatening phone call made to the Airport Police Station yesterday (June 11), in which he falsely claimed that an aircraft arriving in Sri Lanka from Indonesia was going to be hijacked.
According to police, the suspect is a resident of Modara Road, Colombo 15, and is reported to have no stable source of income. Investigations revealed that he is addicted to drugs and was under the influence at the time of the call.
He was arrested while staying in a hotel room in Wellawatte, which he had checked into shortly after making the threatening call.
Police further uncovered that the suspect’s expenses were being funded by his girlfriend living abroad, and that he was using this money primarily to purchase and consume narcotics.
Authorities have confirmed that the threat was a hoax, but said legal action would be taken under laws pertaining to public safety and false threats.
Colombo – The Pettah Police have launched an investigation into a controversial incident where excise officers allegedly removed over Rs. 100 million from two gold shops located in Hetti Veediya, Colombo.
The inquiry follows a formal complaint lodged on June 10 by one of the affected shop owners. According to the complaint, on the evening of June 5, a group of individuals identifying themselves as excise officers entered the complainant’s gold shop, along with a neighboring establishment.
The complainant reported that the officers took Rs. 102 million in total, while also detaining three employees from his own shop, two employees from the adjacent gold shop, and another individual. He further claimed that the officers removed the DVR unit of his CCTV system, which stored the shop’s surveillance footage.
Based on subsequent inquiries, it is believed that the employees were taken to the Excise Department office in Rajagiriya, according to information received from a friend of the shop owner. The friend, who visited the department, was allowed to speak to a senior official and facilitated a phone call between the complainant and an individual said to be an officer at the premises.
During the call, the complainant was allegedly informed that in order to secure the release of the detained employees, a portion of the seized money would need to be handed over. He also stated that the officer warned that failure to comply would result in drug-related charges being filed against the employees, and the funds being submitted as case evidence.
The complainant said he refused to agree to any such arrangement.
He later learned that two of the detained employees were released, while the remaining four were produced before the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court and charged with possession of illicit cigarettes.
Furthermore, the complainant stated that Rs. 50 million was later returned to the neighboring shop owner by the excise officers, but that he himself is still owed Rs. 49,425,000, which he alleges was taken under duress.
In his police complaint, he has requested a full criminal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved and the recovery of the remaining funds.
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding accountability and transparency within the enforcement process
Professor Lalith Chandralal, Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), announced that a decision has been made to increase electricity tariffs by 15% overall.
According to the announcement, the tariff hike is set to take effect starting today.
Professor Chandralal made this statement during a special media briefing held at the PUCSL headquarters. He stated that the electricity tariff increase comes in response to a request by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Economic analysts warn that, as a result, the prices of many essential goods and services are also likely to rise.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared an overnight curfew in the heart of the city Tuesday evening in a bid to prevent another night of clashes between protesters opposed to US President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration raids and security forces.
“I issued a curfew starting tonight at 8pm for Downtown Los Angeles to stop bad actors who are taking advantage of the President’s chaotic escalation. If you do not live or work in Downtown L.A., avoid the area,” Bass wrote on X. “Law enforcement will arrest individuals who break the curfew, and you will be prosecuted.”
The curfew will run through 6 am local time Wednesday and will last “for several days,” Bass said at a separate press conference. It will only be in effect within a roughly one square mile (kilometer) area in downtown that includes the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and City Hall.
Earlier Tuesday, Trump pledged to “liberate” the US’s second largest city during remarks delivered to Army troops at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, claiming the protests sparked by his mass deportation campaign are “a full-blown assault on peace, on public order and on national sovereignty, carried out by rioters bearing foreign flags with the aim of continuing a foreign invasion of our country.”
He also said California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Bass are “incompetent, and they paid troublemakers, agitators and insurrectionists. They’re engaged in this willful attempt to nullify federal law and aid the occupation of the city by criminal invaders.”
The president attempted to walk back those comments as well as the broader claim that the protesters are being paid when asked by reporters about his remarks.
“I didn’t say the governor or the mayor. I said somebody’s paying them, I think. And if they’re not, they’re just troublemakers. What can I tell you? But I believe somebody’s paying them,” he said.
Trump has deployed roughly 4,000 US National Guardsmen and 700 Marines to the streets of Los Angeles in defiance of warnings from Newsom and Bass that the action would only serve to further inflame already-heightened tensions.
A federal judge denied Newsom’s request for a restraining order to block what Newsom described as Trump’s “unlawful militarization of Los Angeles.” Senior District Judge Charles Breyer with the Northern District of California instead set a Thursday hearing on Newsom’s request.
Protests erupted Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents raided local businesses and detained hundreds of people suspected of living in the US illegally. The Trump administration has continued to carry out the raids in defiance of the community’s opposition.
Critics of the raids say ICE is going after law-abiding undocumented immigrants, a vital part of the community and the local economy, rather than the criminals that Trump pledged to deport while campaigning last year to return to the White House.
According to a report in today’s (June 11) Lankadeepa newspaper, the Attorney General informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court that 68 prisoners were unlawfully released by misusing presidential pardons, not only during the recent Vesak holiday but also on Independence Day and Christmas.
This revelation came during the court appearance of Prison Commissioner General Thushara Upuldeniya, who was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The Additional Magistrate Manjula Rathnayake rejected bail and ordered Upuldeniya to be remanded until June 12.
The Additional Solicitor General, Dilip Peiris, stated in court that Upuldeniya abused the authority of the President’s pardon, which is constitutionally granted under Article 34 to release convicted individuals. He emphasized that the Commissioner had misused the system by submitting false prisoner lists and bypassing the proper protocol. In one instance, a convict fined Rs. 2 million by the Anuradhapura High Court was released under a pardon, despite not appearing on any official list.
Investigations revealed this practice has been ongoing. In December 2023 (Christmas), 57 prisoners were released unlawfully, and another 11 during Independence Day 2024. The CID is now probing the misuse of authority and examining the assets of senior prison officials. The pardon list for Vesak included 388 names officially, but unauthorized additions were made.
Defense attorney Darshana Kuruppu argued that the commissioner acted based on a circular issued by the Presidential Secretariat, which allows late additions to the pardon list. However, the prosecution pointed out that the circular lacked any official reference number, questioning its validity.
Due to the severity of the charges and potential interference with the investigation, the magistrate denied bail and ordered the suspect to be kept in remand custody with special protection, as his lawyer claimed he faces threats from underworld groups.
Further investigations are ongoing, and public uproar over the misuse of pardons—especially involving politically sensitive regions—has intensified.
The government has decided to suspend the duties of Prisons Commissioner General Thushara Upuldeniya.
This decision was made in connection with an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department regarding the unauthorized release of an inmate from Anuradhapura Prison under the Vesak Day presidential pardon, without proper approval.
Anuradhapura Magistrate Nalaka Sanjeewa today (9th) ordered the remand custody of Anuradhapura Prison Superintendent Mohan Karunaratne until the day after tomorrow (11th).
Karunaratne was arrested yesterday on allegations of presenting false information to secure the release of an inmate under a presidential pardon. He was produced before the court today.
The inmate in question, who had been convicted in connection with a financial fraud case, was released during the recent Vesak Poya day under the pretense of a presidential pardon. However, the Presidential Secretariat later informed the Police Criminal Investigation Department that no approval had been granted for the release of such a prisoner.
A statement from the Police Media Division reveals that the Presidential Pardon program has been misused, resulting in the illegal release of several inmates. It is alleged that, in addition to prisoners officially granted clemency during the 2025 Vesak Poya Day program, other inmates were also released unlawfully, being treated as if they had received a pardon.
A complaint regarding these irregular releases was submitted to the Department of Criminal Investigations (CID) by the Presidential Secretariat on June 6. The CID has since launched a special investigation into the matter.
According to current findings, the CID has recorded a statement from the Commissioner General of Prisons and is continuing to review documents. The investigation suggests that a number of inmates were freed under the guise of presidential clemency without proper authorization.
The CID has initiated a full probe into all prison officials and related personnel involved in these unauthorized releases. Evidence also indicates that this may not be the first instance of such misconduct, with similar actions having reportedly occurred during past amnesty programs.
The Police Media Division confirms that judicially convicted individuals have been illegally released, prompting formal investigations against the responsible prison authorities.
Deputy Minister of Lands and Irrigation, Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, announced that an investigation is being planned into the lands distributed under the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.
He stated that the probe will focus on identifying which lands were allocated for various projects, how much land was distributed, and the current status of those lands.
Responding to an oral question raised in Parliament today by National People’s Power (NPP) MP for the Polonnaruwa District, Padmasiri Bandara, the Deputy Minister said one of the major issues in Mahaweli zones is the private distribution of large plots of land—100, 200, 300, or even 500 acres—to actors, former cricketers, and politicians.
