News First

The Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court was informed that former State Intelligence Service (SIS) Director Major General (Retd.) Suresh Salley is suffering from serious mental health conditions while in custody.The revelation was made before the Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court today, where President's Counsel Shavindra Fernando, appearing on behalf of Suresh Salley, presented a motion outlining his client's medical condition.The case was taken up before Colombo Fort Magistrate Pasan Amarasena, as Salley remains in the custody of the Criminal Investigation Department under detention orders.Suresh Salley has been named as the third suspect in the ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, one of the deadliest incidents in Sri Lanka's history.His legal team informed court that he has undergone examination by a Judicial Medical Officer, whose report confirms that he is currently suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe mental stress, and depression.According to President's Counsel Shavindra Fernando, the medical report also indicates that Salley had allegedly been subjected to torture at five different locations.The lawyer told court that these alleged incidents have contributed to his client's deteriorating psychological condition, leaving him under extreme mental distress.In a further alarming disclosure, court was informed that the medical findings suggest Suresh Salley may be at risk of self-harm or suicide.His legal counsel requested the court to issue appropriate orders in light of the seriousness of the situation and the medical recommendations.However, Magistrate Pasan Amarasena stated that a ruling could not be made without first hearing the position of the complainant party.Accordingly, the court directed the Criminal Investigation Department to present its submissions on the matter.Notices were issued to the CID to respond, and the case has been scheduled to be taken up again tomorrow at 2:00 p.m.

Sri Lanka has been named among a group of 60 economies identified by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in a major global trade determination concerning the failure to prevent imports linked to forced labor.The announcement follows an investigation conducted under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, a powerful legal tool used to address what the US considers unfair trade practices.According to the USTR's findings, Sri Lanka, along with 53 other economies, has failed to effectively impose and enforce prohibitions on the importation of goods produced using forced labor.The report titled "Acts, Policies, and Practices of Various Economies Related to the Failure to Impose and Effectively Enforce a Prohibition on the Importation of Goods Produced with Forced Labor" mentioned the following on Sri Lanka:The following 54 economies have failed to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labor:Algeria; Angola; Argentina; Australia; the Bahamas; Bahrain; Bangladesh; Brazil; Cambodia; Chile; China, People's Republic of; Colombia; Costa Rica; Dominican Republic; Egypt; El Salvador; Guatemala; Guyana; Honduras; Hong Kong, China; India; Iraq; Israel; Japan; Jordan; Kazakhstan; Kuwait; Libya; Malaysia; Morocco; New Zealand; Nicaragua; Nigeria; Norway; Oman; Peru; the Philippines; Qatar; Russia; Saudi Arabia; Singapore; South Africa; South Korea; Sri Lanka; Switzerland; Taiwan; Thailand; Trinidad and Tobago; Türkiye; United Arab Emirates; United Kingdom; Uruguay; Venezuela; and Vietnam.The determination means that Sri Lanka is now subject to potential trade action by the United States, with the USTR proposing additional duties of up to 12.5% on imports from countries that do not have sufficient measures in place to combat forced labor.For economies that have taken partial or initial steps toward enforcement, a slightly lower tariff rate of 10% has been proposed.Sri Lanka was specifically listed among countries, including major economies such as China, India, Japan, the United Kingdom, and others, that have not fully implemented or enforced comprehensive bans on goods produced through forced labor practices.US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating that the failure of the most important trading partners to address the importation of goods made with forced labor is unacceptable, and "This creates a dynamic where American workers are forced to compete globally on an unlevel playing field".He warned that the US would no longer tolerate trade conditions that allow goods produced under unethical conditions to enter international markets without consequence.The USTR report outlines several reasons behind the determination, noting that the absence of strict enforcement enables companies using forced labor to produce goods at lower costs, thereby undercutting fair competition.It also contributes to the weakening of global efforts to eliminate forced labor and allows such practices to continue unchecked in supply chains.The USTR has opened the proposed actions for public consultation, inviting written comments until July 6, 2026, while hearings are scheduled to take place on July 7, 2026.Stakeholders, including governments, industry representatives, and trade experts, are expected to present their views and arguments during this period.The investigation itself began on March 12, 2026, when the USTR launched 60 separate probes into various economies over concerns about forced labor practices and enforcement gaps.Six economies, including Canada, the European Union, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, and Ecuador, were cited for enforcement failures despite having regulations in place.

It starts with something very ordinary.A government, like any family, needs money. There are roads to build, salaries to pay, hospitals to run. But when there isn't enough money in hand, the government borrows.One of the main ways it does this is through something called treasury bonds.A treasury bond is simply a promise. The government says: "Give me money today, and I'll give it back later with extra." That extra is called interest. The longer you wait, the more interest you earn.The Central Bank of Sri Lanka is the institution that manages this borrowing. It doesn't sell bonds directly to everyone. Instead, it sells them to selected, approved companies called primary dealers. These companies can later sell the bonds to others, banks, institutions, or funds, in the secondary market.That is how the system is supposed to work.But in 2015, that simple system turned into one of the most controversial financial stories in Sri Lanka's history.In January 2015, a major political change took place. After nearly a decade under Mahinda Rajapaksa, a new government came into power.On January 8, 2015, Maithripala Sirisena became President, and Ranil Wickremesinghe became Prime Minister.This new administration was known as the Yahapalana government, promising good governance and transparency.However, just 50 days later, events took a different turn.One morning, during an informal discussion, described as happening over tea, a key decision was made. Present at that discussion were Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, several ministers, the then UNP Chairman, and newly appointed Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran, a Singaporean national whose appointment itself had faced resistance within the cabinet.The topic was urgent: the government needed money to pay contractors involved in road development projects carried out during the previous administration. The figure discussed was around Rs. 15 billion.Soon after, a treasury bond issuance was planned.On February 27, 2015, the Central Bank announced that it would raise Rs. 1 billion through a bond auction. Primary dealers were invited to submit bids, stating how much they wanted and at what interest rate.The system was competitive. The government would accept bids that best suited its needs. But as the auction was underway, something unexpected happened.Governor Arjuna Mahendran personally arrived at the auction floor. This was highly unusual, previous governors did not intervene in auctions in this manner.He examined the bids that had already been submitted and then gave instructions about how the process should proceed.What followed changed everything.Instead of accepting the planned Rs. 1 billion, the Central Bank accepted Rs. 10 billion worth of bids, ten times the original amount.This sudden change raised serious questions. Why was such a large increase accepted without prior notice? Who benefited?Investigations later revealed a crucial connection.One of the largest bidders in that auction was a company called Perpetual Treasuries. Its owner was Arjun Aloysius, the son-in-law of Governor Arjuna Mahendran.Perpetual Treasuries had submitted large bids at higher interest rates and secured a significant share of the bonds.This created what is known as a conflict of interest, where a person in power is connected to a party that stands to benefit from decisions they influence.Allegations emerged that Arjuna Mahendran used inside information and influenced the auction in a way that favored his son-in-law's company.But the story didn't end there.After securing these bonds, Perpetual Treasuries moved to the secondary market and began selling them.One of the key buyers was the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), a fund made from monthly salary contributions of private sector workers. This is money people depend on for their retirement.The EPF is itself a primary dealer and could have bought bonds directly at lower interest rates.But instead, it ended up buying them later, at higher prices.The result was staggering.At one stage, losses to the EPF were estimated at around Rs. 8 billion, and the financial impact continued to grow. Added to this, later debt restructuring further reduced the expected returns from these bonds.In other words, money meant to secure the future of workers had been exposed to significant loss. Multiple investigations followed. Findings emerged from the Presidential Commission of Inquiry, the Auditor General, and two reports by the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE). Criminal investigations were also launched. These reports revealed several troubling details:Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had advised that the bonds be issued through an auction method. This was revealed via testimony given by Mahendran at the Presidential Commission of Inquiry.Governor Arjuna Mahendran, after receiving that advice, made the decision during the auction to accept a much larger amount, Rs. 10 billion. Perpetual Treasuries, owned by Arjun Aloysius, secured a large share of bonds at higher interest rates.Other primary dealers and even a state bank were found to have placed bids that indirectly benefited Perpetual Treasuries, some at lower rates, some at higher rates.The consequences spread beyond that one day. At one point, market interest rates reportedly increased by around 3% due to the transaction. The government ended up borrowing at higher costs, increasing the country's overall debt burden.And the most important detail: These bonds will only mature in 2048.That means Sri Lankans, even future generations , will continue to feel the effects.Despite the controversy in 2015, similar transactions occurred again in 2016, particularly on March 29 and March 31.At that time, Ravi Karunanayake was the Finance Minister. Ahead of the auctions, he summoned senior officials of state banks and instructed them to submit bids at lower interest rates, saying it was necessary to control interest rates.However, the outcome again appeared to favor Perpetual Treasuries, and state banks later said they incurred losses by following those instructions. The total losses from these transactions have still not been fully calculated. As investigations continued, more developments unfolded.Governor Arjuna Mahendran left the country and has not been brought back. Ranil Wickremesinghe stated at one point that Mahendran had gone abroad for a private function and would return, but he has not.Former President Maithripala Sirisena later claimed he signed over 21,000 documents in efforts to have Mahendran extradited.Meanwhile, a COPE report chaired by D.E.W. Gunasekara was effectively halted when Parliament was prorouged before its release, removing its legal validity. A second COPE report under Sunil Handunnetti faced controversy after UNP MPs added footnotes, creating confusion.The Presidential Commission report and its annexures have been sealed for 30 years, meaning they may only be fully accessible around 2048.A separate report prepared by three members aligned with Ranil Wickremesinghe's party cleared Arjuna Mahendran, stating no wrongdoing occurred in the bond auction.Despite all of this, criminal investigations and court proceedings are still ongoing.And while this story may seem complex, its impact is very real.When the government borrows at higher interest rates, the country pays more.And when the country pays more, the people pay more.It appears in everyday life, in fuel prices, electricity bills, loan interest rates, and the overall cost of living.In the end, treasury bonds are not just financial tools. They are promises made in the name of the people.And when those promises are mishandled, it's not just numbers on paper, it becomes a burden carried by an entire nation, for years, even decades to come.

Sri Lanka's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has submitted further findings to the Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court regarding the controversial transfer of 2.5 million US dollars from the Central Bank to a fraudulent entity.The case was taken up before Colombo Fort Magistrate Pasan Amarasekara, where CID presented an update on the progress of the inquiry. Investigators revealed that officials attached to the Department of External Resources, responsible for handling loan repayments, had processed the payment without verifying the original agreement or conducting basic due diligence.According to the CID, the payment had been executed based solely on an invoice received via email, purportedly from an entity named Export Finance Australia. During the court proceedings, investigators further informed that all relevant data from the server system connected to the transaction had now been successfully extracted. Four compact discs containing these digital records have been prepared for advanced forensic analysis.The CID requested court approval to forward the material to the Computer Forensics Division of the University of Colombo for a detailed technical examination, which was subsequently granted by the Magistrate.The investigation has so far recorded statements from 42 individuals in connection with the incident. The CID also presented a copy of the post-mortem report of Ranga Nishantha Rajapaksha, an Assistant Director of the Department of External Resources who had been suspended from duty in relation to the incident and later died. Investigators further informed court that the Attorney General's Department is expected to formally represent the case in upcoming proceedings.The case has been fixed for hearing again on July 8.

The Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court has imposed an overseas travel ban on former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over the ongoing investigation into the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks.The order was issued by Colombo Fort Magistrate Pasan Amarasena after considering a motion filed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which is conducting inquiries into the deadly coordinated bombings.In addition to the former President, the court also imposed foreign travel restrictions on two military personnel.They include Army Colonel Mohamed Ansar and Premananda Udalagama, also known as Silva, a former intelligence officer.Meanwhile, former Director of State Intelligence, retired Major General Suresh Salley, is currently under detention orders in connection with the same investigation.

Japan has expressed its willingness to support the development of Sri Lanka's fisheries and agriculture sectors.The commitment emerged during high-level discussions between Sri Lanka's Minister of Fisheries, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, and Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.The talks were held in Tokyo on the sidelines of the Island States Ocean Summit, an international gathering focused on sustainable solutions for maritime and climate challenges.In addition to ministerial-level engagements, the Sri Lankan delegation also held discussions with senior officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), one of Japan's leading development partners.The delegation also met with representatives of Japan's fisheries research and academic institutions.The 'Island States Ocean Summit: Sustainable Ocean Action for Resilient Islands' will bring together Heads of State and high-level representatives of Island States along with technical and financial partners in Tokyo, Japan, from 3 to 4 June 2026 to bolster evidence-based, climate-resilient sustainable ocean planning and management.The Summit builds on the outcome of the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference and contributes to the vision of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.The Nippon Foundation, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is jointly hosting the Island States Ocean Summit.

Sri Lanka is set to establish direct air connectivity with Australia through Jetstar Airways beginning in August 2026.Foreign Minister Wijitha Herath announced the development following his official visits to Australia and New Zealand.The introduction of direct Jetstar flights between Colombo and Australia is expected to significantly boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.Jetstar Airways Pty Ltd, trading as Jetstar, is an Australian low-cost airline headquartered in Melbourne, Victoria.

Sri Lanka has successfully advanced diplomatic efforts to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement, according to Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.The announcement came following his official visits to Australia and New Zealand, where both nations expressed full support for Sri Lanka's membership bid.Speaking after concluding his tour and visiting the Sri Lankan High Commission in Canberra, Minister Herath highlighted that the discussions marked a significant step forward in the country's path to integration with the Asia-Pacific's economic framework. Australia and New Zealand, both founding members of RCEP, pledged to back Sri Lanka's accession to the bloc.RCEP, established with the participation of 15 nations, represents nearly half of the global population and a major share of world economic output.The agreement includes the 10 ASEAN countries, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, alongside economic powerhouses Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and South Korea.Sri Lanka's entry into RCEP is expected to open new avenues for trade, investment, and regional cooperation, strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific economic landscape.

The Indian Naval Ship INS Airavat arrived at the Port of Colombo on June 1, 2026, for an Operational Turnaround, where it was ceremonially welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in line with longstanding naval traditions.INS Airavat, a Landing Ship Tank commanded by Commander I.P. Patil, is designed for amphibious operations and logistical support.Its arrival highlights the continuing cooperation and goodwill between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy.During their stay, the ship's crew will participate in a series of professionally enriching engagements and camaraderie-building programs organized by the Sri Lanka Navy.In addition, Indian naval personnel are scheduled to tour several historic and prominent tourist attractions across the island, further strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties.

The Sri Lanka Navy formally welcomed three Pakistan Navy units, the frigates PNS Taimur and PNS Aslat, along with the submarine PNS/M Hangor, as they arrived at the Port of Colombo on June 1, 2026.The visit is part of a goodwill mission and replenishment stop.The visiting vessels are commanded by senior officers: Captain Niamat Saeed Khan aboard PNS Taimur, Captain Nadir Mateen Afridi aboard PNS Aslat, and Captain Uzair Farooq aboard PNS/M Hangor.During their stay, crew members are scheduled to tour key cultural and historical sites across Sri Lanka, fostering people-to-people connections alongside naval cooperation.The visit will conclude with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) conducted off Sri Lanka's western coast, where the Pakistan Navy units will engage in joint maneuvers with the Sri Lanka Navy. This exercise is expected to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime security collaboration between the two nations.

Sri Lanka Police carried out a major raid in Dematagoda, leading to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of 19 revolvers.The operation was conducted by officers attached to the Western Province North Crimes Division.Authorities confirmed that the suspects are now in custody and the cache of revolvers has been taken into police possession.Investigations are currently underway.

A clash has broken out between two groups following a road accident in Maduwanwela, Kiriella, Ratnapura.The police stated that the clash erupted after a cab and a car collided last night.According to the police, an individual in the cab involved in the accident had fired his legally owned pistol into the air.The police further stated that the opposing party then snatched the pistol and fired nine shots into the air.They subsequently fled the scene with the firearm.The police noted that the individual from the Horana area, who was assaulted during the incident, is currently receiving treatment at the Ratnapura Hospital.Following a subsequent investigation, the police discovered the pistol hidden inside a house in the Kiriella area.

The National Water Resources Board states that new laws will be introduced to regulate the extraction of groundwater for commercial purposes.Its Chairman, R.M.S. Bandara, noted that steps will be taken to amend the Water Resources Board Act for this purpose.Coinciding with this year's National Environment Week, today has been designated as the Water and Water Sources Conservation Day.The Chairman further stated that a number of programs have been organized today in parallel with this.

The funds amounting to $695 million, corresponding to the sixth and seventh tranches approved for the country by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), have been received.Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Anil Jayantha, stated that the amount has been credited to the country's foreign reserves.He further expressed that this would be a significant support to the financial stability of the country.The Deputy Minister of Finance also stated that the crediting of these funds is an important factor in maintaining the Rupee as a strong currency against the US Dollar.

The Department of Agrarian Development states that the fertilizer subsidy cash grants have already been provided for 75% of the land area cultivated with paddy in the Yala season.Its Commissioner General, Dhammika Ranatunga, noted that Rs. 8,990 million has been spent for this purpose.He further stated that another Rs. 2,000 million will be deposited into farmers' bank accounts within this week.Under the fertilizer subsidy, the amount entitled to a farmer is Rs. 30,000.It is estimated that paddy has been cultivated in 394,299 hectares during this Yala season.Agrarian Development Centers continue to issue a sack of Urea fertilizer to farmers at a price of Rs. 10,200.Meanwhile, the National Fertilizer Secretariat states that another ship containing Urea and a ship containing MOP fertilizer will arrive in the island this month.The vessel carrying 18,000 metric tons of Urea fertilizer is arriving in the country from Uzbekistan.The Fertilizer Secretariat mentioned that the ship carrying 17,000 metric tons of MOP fertilizer will reach the country from Oman.Its Director, Chandana Lokuhewage, said that the country possesses all the fertilizer stocks required for the Yala season.Therefore, he requests farmers not to harbor undue fears regarding a fertilizer shortage.

The Ministry of Health states that around 250 patients suspected of having meningitis have been reported from several areas of the island so far.Community Medicine Specialist of the Epidemiology Unit, Dr. Harendra Dasanayake, noted that patients have been reported from Deniyaya, Rikillagaskada, Diyatalawa, Welimada, and Kandy areas.Currently, fewer than 50 of those patients are hospitalized and receiving treatment.Dr. Harendra Dassanayake, Consultant Community Physician, stated that the meningitis disease spreading these days has been identified as being caused by a virus belonging to the Enterovirus group.Accordingly, Dr. Harendra Dassanayake added that proper health habits should be followed to prevent contracting the disease.

In line with the order issued by the Supreme Court yesterday (1), the Attorney General's Department states that a new Trial-at-Bar will be appointed to recommence proceedings under the Public Property Act in relation to the 2016 Central Bank bond scam.It has been revealed that three new Trial-at-Bar panels are expected to be appointed, with this case scheduled to be heard before one of those courts.The case, which was previously being heard before a Trial-at-Bar, was halted in 2021 after the court considered preliminary objections raised by the defence.The objection argued that since Perpetual Treasuries is a company involved in the transactions, legal action could not be instituted against a company under the Public Property Act.However, following an appeal filed by the Attorney General, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled yesterday that a company can, in fact, be prosecuted and tried under the Public Property Act.

Sri Lanka Cricket has announced its list of nationally contracted players for the 2026-2027 season, with a total of 46 cricketers selected to receive contracts as part of a renewed push to strengthen the country's cricketing structure and performance pipeline.The contracts will run for a one-year period from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027, providing players with structured support and resources as they prepare for international competition.According to Sri Lanka Cricket, the players have been categorized into A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and Central Contract groups, based on a comprehensive evaluation of performance, consistency, fitness, potential, and the strategic needs of the national teams across formats.The governing body emphasized that the contracts are designed to ensure players receive the necessary backing to perform at the highest level while contributing to the long-term development of Sri Lankan cricket.Among the 46 selected players, several new faces have been included.Kamil Mishara, Lasith Croospulle, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Isitha Wijesundera, Wanuja Sahan, Dilum Sudeera, and Tharindu Rathnayake have all secured national contracts for the first time.

Former Minister Johnston Fernando appeared before the Illegal Assets Investigation Division today and subsequently left the premises at around 12:30 p.m. after providing a statement to investigators.Fernando had been summoned in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged provision of a vehicle on a rental basis to an individual identified as Sampath Manamperi.Authorities are probing the transaction as part of a broader inquiry into possible irregularities involving assets and financial dealings.He had initially been called to appear before the division on the 26th of last month but had requested a different date at the time. Police confirmed that the former minister complied with the rescheduled summons and presented himself for questioning today.Meanwhile, in a separate development, Chanuka Ratwatte failed to appear before the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), despite being summoned today.He had been called to provide a statement in relation to an investigation involving the alleged operation of a financial company without obtaining approval from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and for reportedly accepting deposits from customers without proper authorization.

The Supreme Court has concluded hearings today (2) in the fundamental rights petition filed by former Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, widely known as Pillayan.The petition was filed challenging his arrest and detention under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), with the former provincial leader alleging that his fundamental rights had been violated through the legal process.After hearing submissions in the case, the Supreme Court bench announced that proceedings in the matter have now been completed. However, the Court decided to reserve its judgment, postponing the announcement of the final ruling to a later date.

Sri Lanka has launched what is being described as one of the most ambitious rural development initiatives in its history, with plans to implement at least one development project in each of the country's more than 14,000 villages this year under the "Praja Shakthi" programme.Although originally introduced as "1,000 Villages, 1,000 Projects," authorities made it clear at the launch that the initiative will expand into a far larger national movement, targeting every village across the island as part of a long-term strategy to tackle poverty and strengthen grassroots economic development.The programme was officially launched today, with the main inaugural ceremony held in Pinawala, where the rehabilitation of the Ambagaspitiya-Pinnawala irrigation canal in Mahara was commenced under the patronage of Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Dr. Upali Pannilage.Simultaneously, projects were launched across 1,000 Grama Niladhari divisions, covering all 341 Divisional Secretariat divisions, marking the first phase of a programme that is already being scaled up nationwide. Public representatives and government officials joined communities in multiple locations to kick-start projects tailored to local needs.Minister Pannilage emphasized that the initiative is designed to go far beyond its initial scope."Through this programme, at least one development project will be implemented this year in each of the more than 14,000 villages in our country. Therefore, this is not just 1,000 projects in 1,000 villages, but a national movement that will deliver a minimum of 14,000 projects across 14,000 villages. Through the Provincial Councils, more than Rs. 70,000 million has been allocated in this year's budget with the aim of accelerating rural development," he said.The initiative places strong emphasis on community-led development, with project proposals first identified by Community Development Councils and then submitted to Divisional Development Committees for selection and implementation.This process is intended to ensure that development priorities reflect the real needs of local communities.In the Colombo District, the programme was launched in Piliyandala, Nanpamunuwa Hamuge Yaya, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who inaugurated a project to revive abandoned paddy lands."We have begun a transformative journey in 2024. To make that transformation successful, we need the government, public officials, and the people. We cannot move forward on separate paths; we must move as one, on a common journey with a shared goal. By listening to each other, engaging in discussions, and sharing ideas, we are bringing everyone together to move forward. Projects such as this help build that unity and shared hope. This is not just a simple project, it carries a big vision, a big expectation, and a big dream," the Prime Minister said.Projects under the Praja Shakthi programme were also launched today in several key areas including Galigamuwa, Kandy, and Badulla, as well as across the Northern and Eastern Provinces.In Kilinochchi's Ganeshpuram, construction began on a drying facility, while a similar initiative was launched in Marapalam village in Batticaloa.The programme integrates a wide range of development priorities, including boosting the production economy, enhancing livelihoods, and strengthening food security at the village level, areas that have become increasingly critical in the wake of Sri Lanka's recent economic challenges.

The Homagama Magistrate's Court today (2) imposed an overseas travel ban on the owner of the cab involved in the fatal Meegoda accident that claimed six lives.The order was issued after Meegoda Police presented facts before the court regarding the ongoing investigation into the tragedy, which occurred at a roadside dansala.Police further informed court that three investigative teams have now been deployed to track down and arrest two individuals, including the vehicle owner, who fled the scene at the time of the accident.According to authorities, the incident took place on Sunday night when the cab was driven into a group of people standing in a queue at a dansala in Meegoda, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and leaving seven others injured.

Sri Lanka's Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe has issued a strong and urgent warning over the growing threat of financial fraud, calling on the public to remain vigilant as rapid digital transformation reshapes the financial landscape.On Tuesday (2), the Central Bank of Sri Lanka launched a nationwide movement aimed at protecting financial consumers from fraud and theft, marking the commencement of Financial Consumer Protection Month 2026 under the theme "Be Scam Proof."Speaking on the evolving risks facing consumers, the Governor highlighted how modern technology has fundamentally changed the way people interact with financial services, placing unprecedented power, and vulnerability, in the hands of individuals."We live in extraordinary times for financial services. Digital banking, thus expanding rapidly, has placed the power of an entire branch into the palm of every citizen's hand," he said, noting that social media and digital platforms now expose users to a vast range of financial products, both legitimate and fraudulent.However, he emphasized that financial fraud in Sri Lanka is driven by more than just technological advancement. According to the Governor, deeper systemic challenges continue to create conditions for scams to thrive."Financial fraud today is the result of deeper, more persistent challenges, such as the uneven flow of reliable financial information, limited awareness beyond urban centres, and the fact that many people remain unaware of what is legal, regulated, or outright fraudulent," he explained.Dr. Weerasinghe warned that this gap between regulatory frameworks and public awareness has become a breeding ground for fraudsters, who actively exploit both access to technology and the lack of financial literacy."It is in this void between legal boundaries set by regulators and the lack of public awareness that fraudsters continue to operate. They use this gap in knowledge to their advantage," he said.He pointed out that Sri Lanka is witnessing two concerning extremes, those who lack basic financial awareness and those who are digitally savvy but still fall victim to scams."We see populations who cannot distinguish licensed finance companies from illegal schemes, while at the same time highly internet-savvy individuals are clicking on fraudulent links and sharing sensitive information such as OTPs," he noted.The Governor stressed that these risks are not unique to Sri Lanka, but part of a broader global challenge confronting regulators worldwide.According to Dr. Weerasinghe, financial fraud not only causes individual hardship but also undermines economic stability and public trust."Financial fraud and consumer abuse erode household wealth, weaken trust in the financial system, and undermine economic recovery and resilience," he said.He further warned that the impact is especially severe in developing economies, where those with limited financial resilience are the hardest hit."In developing economies, the damage is asymmetric. It falls disproportionately on those with fewer resources to absorb it," he added.Highlighting the broader social consequences, the Governor noted that fraudulent schemes such as pyramid scams, deceptive investment offers, and illegal deposit-taking operations can devastate entire communities."These schemes do not merely cause individual loss. They destroy the accumulated strength of communities and set back poverty reduction by years. People who fall into these scams take a long time to recover," he said.In light of these growing risks, Dr. Weerasinghe issued a clear call to action for the public to take greater responsibility in safeguarding their finances."Question suspicious promises. Verify before you trust and act responsibly. This is essential to strengthening both individual security and public confidence in the system as a whole," he urged.He emphasized that tackling financial fraud requires not only regulatory action but also sustained public awareness and participation."The way forward is to sustain commitment and collective action," he said.Note: News 1st's Viyara Weerakoon contributed to this report.

Sri Lanka today (2) launched the ambitious "Praja Shakthi - 1,000 Villages, 1,000 Projects" programme, marking a major nationwide initiative aimed at uplifting rural communities and strengthening the country's grassroots economy.The main launch event was held in Nanpamunuwa Hamuge Yaya, Piliyandala, under the patronage of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, bringing together Members of Parliament, government officials, and local representatives.As part of the programme, a key project to revive abandoned paddy lands in the Hamuge Yaya area of Nanpamunuwa was officially commenced.Under the "Praja Shakthi" programme, development activities are being simultaneously implemented across 1,000 Grama Niladhari divisions, covering all 341 Divisional Secretariat divisions in the country. Events related to the programme were carried out in multiple locations islandwide today, with the participation of public representatives and state officials.The initiative is primarily aimed at alleviating rural poverty while promoting sustainable livelihoods and inclusive development.Authorities emphasized that the programme also incorporates efforts to boost the production economy, enhance income-generating opportunities for communities, and strengthen national food security.In total, 25,932 projects are scheduled to be implemented under the programme. The government has allocated an investment of Rs. 23 billion for the initiative.

The Jaffna Magistrate's Court has granted permission for former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to provide evidence via an online platform in connection with the Lalith-Kugan disappearance case.The order relates to a case filed by the relatives of two missing individuals, Lalith Weeraraj and Kugan Muruganandan, who were reported disappeared under suspicious circumstances.The case was taken up today before the Jaffna Magistrate's Court, where the request for remote testimony by the former President was considered and approved.In 2019, the Jaffna Magistrate's Court had issued notices to Gotabaya Rajapaksa during his tenure as former Defence Secretary, in connection with the same case.Human rights activists Lalith Weeraraj and Kugan Muruganandan went missing on December 9, 2011, in Jaffna, in an incident that has since remained a matter of significant public and legal concern.