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    India Faces a Target of 252 in the Final

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    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.

    No reversal of Ben on chemical fertilizer-Prez

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    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

    Sri Lanka Clinches ODI Series Win Over Bangladesh After Six Years

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    Sri Lanka secured a historic One Day International (ODI) series victory over Bangladesh last night, marking their first such triumph against the visitors in six years. The home team clinched the three-match series 2-1, continuing their streak of defeating touring sides on home soil.

    In the decisive third and final ODI played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka set a target of 286 runs. Bangladesh, in response, were bowled out for 186 in 39.4 overs, thanks to disciplined bowling by the Sri Lankan attack.

    Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka anchored Sri Lanka’s innings with a century partnership. Mendis played a stellar knock, scoring 124 runs to register his sixth ODI century, while Asalanka contributed a solid 58 runs—his 16th ODI half-century.

    Final scores:
    Sri Lanka – 285/7 (50 overs)
    Bangladesh – 186 all out (39.4 overs)

    Kusal Mendis Scores Brilliant Century Against Bangladesh in Final ODI

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    Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis struck a superb century against Bangladesh today (08) in the final match of the three-match ODI series held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

    Winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to bat first but faced early setbacks. Nishan Madushka was dismissed for just 1 run, while Pathum Nissanka, who looked promising, scored 35 before falling as the second wicket with the total at 69. Kamindu Mendis failed to make an impact and was dismissed for 16.

    With three wickets down for just 100 runs, Kusal Mendis and Charitgh Asalanka built a strong partnership, adding 124 runs for the fourth wicket. Asalanka was eventually dismissed for a solid 58.

    Kusal Mendis played a commanding knock, reaching 124 runs before being dismissed in the 46th over.

    At the end of their innings, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 285 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs.

    Hollywood Actor Michael Madsen Dies at 67 After Cardiac Arrest

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    Actor Michael Madsen, best known for his collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino and iconic roles in films like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, has died at the age of 67, his publicist Liz Rodriguez confirmed.

    Madsen was found unresponsive at his home in Malibu, California, on Thursday morning. According to Rodriguez, the actor suffered a cardiac arrest. His passing was also confirmed by Sgt. Christopher Jauregui of the Los Angeles Sheriff Department’s Lost Hills Station, who stated that deputies responded to a call at Madsen’s residence and found him unresponsive.

    “Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, who will be missed by many,” read a joint statement issued by his managers Susan Ferris and Ron Smith of Bohemia Entertainment, along with Rodriguez.

    Madsen’s film career spanned more than four decades and included over 300 acting credits. His intense, often brooding performances made him a fan favorite in crime dramas and action thrillers. He was also a poet, photographer, and father.

    Underworld Death Threats Target Former Minister and Senior Police Officers

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    Former Minister Tiran Alles, Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Lalith S. Pathinayake, and retired Senior DIG Priyantha Jayakody have reportedly received death threats from an underworld drug trafficker based in Dubai, identified as “Kehelbaddara Pathme.”

    According to sources, the trio received threatening phone calls on July 5. The caller initially hurled verbal abuse and later issued death threats. It is reported that none of the three showed fear and did not respond to the threats, which allegedly frustrated the caller.

    In a related development, the son of suspended IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon — who is currently barred from duty by a court order — has also received a threatening call allegedly from the same underworld figure.

    Following these incidents, Acting IGP Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya has been briefed, and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched a full-scale investigation into the threats.

    Over 12,000 Annual Deaths in SL Caused by Accidents

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    Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa, revealed that out of the approximately 145,000 annual deaths in Sri Lanka, around 12,000 are caused by accidents. He was speaking at the inauguration of the 10th National Injury Prevention Week, which commenced today and runs until July 11.

    The Minister noted that between 2,500 and 3,000 patients referred to hospitals each year due to accidents ultimately succumb to their injuries. He emphasized that accidental injuries are a major cause of hospital admissions across the country, prompting the Ministry to launch this nationwide awareness campaign.

    Dr. Jayathissa stated that, statistically, at least one out of every seven Sri Lankans faces a life-threatening accident requiring medical attention each year. Alarmingly, every minute, six to eight individuals in the country are estimated to suffer injuries requiring treatment.

    A significant proportion of victims are between the ages of 15 and 44, the country’s most economically productive demographic. The Minister pointed out that these injuries have far-reaching impacts on national development, economic growth, and productivity.

    Accidents also consume a notable portion of the national health budget, he said, urging public awareness and prevention.

    To maximize outreach, each day of the National Injury Prevention Week will focus on a different theme:

    • July 7 – Road Accident Prevention
    • July 8 – Workplace Injury Prevention
    • July 9 – Home and Elder Care Injury Prevention
    • July 10 – Drowning and Water Safety
    • July 11 – Child Safety in Schools and Daycare Centers

    The campaign aims to inform the public, inspect high-risk areas, and develop short-, medium-, and long-term preventive strategies.

    Dr. Jayathissa concluded by recognizing the exceptional dedication of Sri Lanka’s healthcare workers and called on the public to support this initiative by staying informed and adopting safety measures.

    Additional insights from the media briefing revealed that around 7,500–8,000 accidental deaths occur even before victims reach a hospital. Among the overall 145,000 annual deaths, approximately 10,000–12,000 result from sudden accidents — an average of 1,000 deaths per month, or at least four every three hours.

    Also attending the briefing were Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Dr. Samindhi Samarakoon (Director, Non-Communicable Disease Unit), and Community Health Specialist Dr. Samitha Sirithunga.

    Veteran Civil Servant Bradman Weerakoon Passes Away at 94

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    Deshamanya Bradman Weerakoon, a distinguished and long-serving Sri Lankan civil servant, passed away today at the age of 94.

    Mr. Weerakoon, known for his exemplary service in public administration, began his early education at St. Thomas’ College, Guruthalawa, after attending Kalutara Holy Cross College, and later earned his Honours Degree in Economics and Sociology from the University of Peradeniya.

    He furthered his academic qualifications in the United States, obtaining a Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Michigan under a Fulbright Scholarship.

    Bradman Weerakoon joined the Ceylon Civil Service (CCS) in 1954 and served in multiple regions of the country. He held the unique distinction of serving as Secretary to seven Prime Ministers and two Presidents, starting with Prime Minister Sir John Kotelawala, and continuing in various key roles until 2002.

    Mr. Weerakoon’s legacy as a principled and accomplished public servant has left a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s administrative history.

    Doctor’s Daughter Remanded for Allegedly Threatening Bribery Commission Officers

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    The daughter of Dr. Mahesi Surasinghe Wijerathna, a consultant neurosurgeon in charge of Ward 18 at Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital, has been remanded until July 9 for allegedly issuing death threats to officers of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).

    Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga issued the remand order today following a complaint filed by both Keselwatta Police and Bribery Commission officials regarding an incident that occurred last Friday on court premises, where the threats were allegedly made.

    The suspect, a resident of Kurunduwatta, Colombo, was arrested by Keselwatta Police and produced before court.

    Lawyers appearing for the suspect claimed she had misunderstood a statement referring to her studying abroad as a death threat and had reacted emotionally. They also requested leniency, noting that the suspect is a young woman and not a threat.

    Investigations into the alleged threats are ongoing.

    Sri Lanka Names 17-Member T20 Squad for Bangladesh Series

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    Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20 series against Bangladesh, with Charith Asalanka named as captain.

    The T20 series will begin on July 10 in Pallekele, followed by matches on July 13 in Dambulla and July 16 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

    Sri Lanka T20 Squad:

    • Charith Asalanka (Captain)
    • Pathum Nissanka
    • Kusal Mendis
    • Dinesh Chandimal
    • Kusal Perera
    • Kamindu Mendis
    • Avishka Fernando
    • Dasun Shanaka
    • Dunith Wellalage
    • Wanindu Hasaranga
    • Maheesh Theekshana
    • Jeffrey Vandersay
    • Chamika Karunaratne
    • Matheesha Pathirana
    • Nuwan Thushara
    • Binura Fernando
    • Eshan Malinga

    Sri Lanka will look to fine-tune their preparations ahead of future international tournaments, with a mix of experienced players and fresh talent included in the squad.

    Impose 18% VAT on Digital Services from October 1

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    The Government of Sri Lanka has announced that Value Added Tax (VAT) will be imposed on digital services effective from October 1, 2025.

    According to a special gazette (No. 2443/30) issued by the Inland Revenue Department on July 1, 2025, guidelines have been released to implement the new tax under the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act No. 4 of 2025.

    Under this new regulation, foreign service providers offering digital services to individuals in Sri Lanka through electronic platforms will be required to register for VAT if their supply of services exceeds Rs. 60 million over the past 12 months, or Rs.15 million in the last quarter.

    The following categories of digital services will be subject to the 18% VAT:

    • E-commerce Services
    • Cloud Computing
    • Software as a Service (SaaS)
    • Cybersecurity Services
    • Digital Marketing & Advertising
    • IT Support & Managed Services
    • Streaming Services
    • FinTech Solutions
    • Subscription & Membership Websites
    • E-commerce Platforms
    • Social Media Platforms
    • On-Demand Service Platforms
    • Content Sharing Platforms
    • Cloud Collaboration Platforms
    • Online Marketplaces
    • Gaming Platforms
    • Blockchain & NFT Platforms
    • Apps for Hotel Bookings and Ticket Reservations

    This move is part of Sri Lanka’s broader effort to expand its tax base by including digital economy participants and aligning with international taxation trends.

    Missing Marawila Businessman Found Murdered in Waste Pit

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    The body of a missing businessman from Marawila was discovered inside a waste pit used to drain wastewater at a vehicle wash station in Udasirigama, Wennappuwa, according to police.

    Preliminary investigations suggest the businessman was murdered, and one of his friends has already been arrested in connection with the case.

    The deceased has been identified as Sreejith Jayashan, a 31-year-old resident of Katuneriya, Marawila, who had been reported missing since June 30.

    During the investigation, police located the victim’s car at a residence belonging to one of his friends in the Wennappuwa area on July 3. Upon questioning the suspect, police were led to a private company premises in Sirigampola, where the body was found inside a waste disposal pit.

    According to police, on the night of June 30, the businessman had been drinking with five of his friends when an argument escalated, resulting in the victim being fatally stabbed and his body dumped in the pit.

    The arrested suspect is to be produced before the Marawila Magistrate’s Court, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.

    Former Minister S.M. Chandrasena Arrested

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    Former Minister S.M. Chandrasena was taken into custody by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) this morning (4).

    The arrest is linked to an incident during the 2015 Presidential Election, where Chandrasena is alleged to have distributed Rs. 25 million worth of wheat seed to close associates.

    He was summoned to the Commission earlier today to provide a statement in connection with the ongoing investigation. Following the statement, the former minister was formally arrested.

    Further legal proceedings are expected as the investigation continues.

    Gunmen Open Fire on Vehicle of Mangala’s Former Private Secretary – One Dead, Two Injured

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    An unidentified pair of gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire at a jeep carrying the former private secretary of the late Minister Mangala Samaraweera, in front of the Kandana Police Station this morning (July 3), killing one person and injuring two others.

    According to police, 50-year-old Upali Amunuvila, who was traveling in the vehicle, succumbed to injuries sustained in the shooting. He was identified as a relative of Sameera Manahara, the former private secretary of Mangala Samaraweera, who was also injured in the attack.

    The two were reportedly returning home after visiting a fitness center when they were ambushed about 500 meters away from their residence. The gunmen targeted the jeep and fled the scene after the shooting.

    Police said a bystander who had visited a nearby shop was also injured during the incident.

    Investigations are ongoing by the Kandana Police.

    Increased Pension Payments to Be Issued from This Month

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    Business boss give money salary to employee, financial cash pay vector illustration. Businessman dollar payment in people hand concept. Cartoon man character happy to currency bill, banknote.

    The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has announced that the increased pension payments proposed in the recent budget will be provided to all pensioners starting this month.

    According to Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Professor Chandana Abeyratne, over 500,000 retired public servants will receive the revised pension benefits with this month’s payment.

    IMF Approves Fourth Review, Releases $350M to Sri Lanka

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    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the fourth review of Sri Lanka’s $2.9 billion bailout programme, unlocking a fresh tranche of $350 million to support the island nation’s ongoing economic recovery.

    This disbursement follows the IMF Executive Board’s completion of the fourth review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement. According to the IMF, Sri Lanka is now eligible to draw approximately SDR 254 million (around $350 million) from the facility.

    The IMF first approved the $2.9 billion bailout in March 2023 to assist Sri Lanka in addressing its worst economic crisis since independence. The programme aims to help the country restore macroeconomic stability, rebuild reserves, and ensure fiscal and debt sustainability.

    Since the bailout’s approval, Sri Lanka has made progress in restructuring its external debt and stabilizing the economy, though challenges remain.

    The IMF noted that continued commitment to the reform agenda is crucial for maintaining the gains made so far and ensuring long-term recovery.


    Man Assaulted and Robbed After Meeting Ex-Girlfriend Tracked on TikTok

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    A young man who arrived to meet his ex-girlfriend—whom he had reconnected with via TikTok—was assaulted and robbed of cash and his mobile phone by the woman and a group of her associates.

    Following investigations, Welikada Police arrested five suspects, including the ex-girlfriend, on June 29.

    The ex-girlfriend, a 19-year-old resident of Ethul Kotte, had invited the man to meet her at Nelum Mawatha in Rajagiriya on the 24th. The victim, a resident of Moragahahena, was then attacked, and his belongings stolen.

    Among those arrested is a 20-year-old female friend of the ex-girlfriend, also from Ethul Kotte. The other three suspects, aged 19 and 20, are male residents of Angoda, Rajagiriya, and Kalapaluwawa, police said.

    Fisherman Killed After Falling Onto Swordfish Bill in Mid-Sea Accident

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    A tragic accident occurred off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka when a fisherman fell into the sea while attempting to haul a swordfish onto the boat, and was fatally impaled by the fish’s bill.

    The deceased has been identified as 44-year-old M.L. Sabdeen, a resident of Thiyavattuwan in Valachchenai, according to Valachchenai Police.

    Police stated that the victim had been on a multi-day fishing trip with two others at the time of the incident.

    Fuel Prices Increased

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    The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has announced a revision of fuel prices, which came into effect from midnight on June 30.

    As per the new pricing structure, the price of Petrol 92 Octane has been increased by Rs. 12, bringing it to Rs. 305 per litre. The price of Auto Diesel has risen by Rs. 15 to Rs. 289 per litre, while Kerosene now costs Rs. 185 per litre, after a Rs. 7 increase.

    However, the prices of Petrol 95 Octane and Super Diesel remain unchanged at Rs. 341 and Rs. 325 per litre respectively.

    Revised Fuel Prices:

    • Petrol Octane 92 – Rs. 305 (↑ Rs. 12)
    • Auto Diesel – Rs. 289 (↑ Rs. 15)
    • Kerosene – Rs. 185 (↑ Rs. 7)
    • Petrol Octane 95 – Rs. 341 (No change)
    • Super Diesel – Rs. 325 (No change)

    Meanwhile, Lanka IOC has also adjusted its retail prices to align with the revised rates set by Ceypetco.

    Over Rs. 160 Million Worth of Assets Linked to Drug Traffickers Frozen

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    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.

    Housemaid Dies in Elevator Accident at Former Minister Nimal Siripala’s Residence

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    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.

    Further investigations are ongoing.

    Rs. 23 Billion Worth of Heroin and Ice Seized in April–May

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    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 Crush Bangladesh by an Innings to Seal Test Series Win

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    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.

    Shani Abeysekara Appointed Director of CID

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    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.

    Keheliya and 11 Others Charged Over Rs. 1450 Million Vaccine Fraud

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    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.

    A/L Exam Applications Open from Today – Exam Starts on November 10

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    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

    CoPF Approves Casino Machine Imports as Dammika Perera Set to Dominate Gaming Revival

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    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.

    Bus Fares to Drop by 2% – Bus Unions Oppose

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    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.

    200 New Luxury Buses Approved for Expressways

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    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.

    Stricter Child Protection Laws Effective from July 1

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    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.

    Doctor Accused of Selling Surgical Equipment at Inflated Prices, Even Operating on the Dead

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    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 Trump Declares Victory After U.S. Bombs Iran’s Nuclear Sites

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    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

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