This week in Sri Lanka
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa appeared before the Bribery Commission concerning the Airbus deal, an investigation that authorities confirmed will proceed despite a key figure's death. Amidst this, a parliamentary committee is set to question lawyer Nagananda Kodituwakku, and a finance committee report on a treasury heist drew criticism for allegedly shifting blame. The government, however, pledged to bring wealth to the people through economic democratization, while also dealing with flood warnings and ongoing railway line restoration.
About Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, a captivating island nation in South Asia, is renowned for its ancient Buddhist heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, alongside a growing tourism and tea-driven economy. While press is legally free, journalists face harassment, and ethnic and political tensions significantly influence news coverage across Sinhala and Tamil-language media.
Visiting Sri Lanka
Media landscape
Sri Lanka's media operates in a partly-free environment where legal press freedom exists, but journalists frequently encounter harassment, and coverage is often shaped by underlying ethnic and political divisions.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, consult a variety of news sources from across the Sinhala, Tamil, and English-language media to discern different perspectives.
Sources we track 1
25 towns to be developed under 'Mithuru Purawara' program
- The Sri Lankan cabinet approved a plan to develop 25 towns under the 'Mithuru Purawara' program. - The initiative aims to improve the convenience and well-being of the public and local communities b…
Kalutara gunman arrested
- Police arrested the main suspect and another individual in connection with the murder of a businessman in Kalutara. - The victim was shot and killed while riding his motorcycle, allegedly due to pro…
Cabinet Approves Tender for Lubricant Oil Supply to Sapugaskanda Power Plants
- The Sri Lankan cabinet approved a tender for supplying lubricant oil to the Sapugaskanda power plants for the 2026/27 period. - Lanka IOC PLC secured the contract for the A power plant, and Chevron …
Sri Lanka Approves National Plan to Protect Waters from Oil and Hazardous Spills
- Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved a national plan and digital platform to manage oil and hazardous substance spills in its waters. - The initiative addresses increased maritime traffic and the potent…
Sri Lanka approves regulations to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals
- Sri Lanka's cabinet approved new import and export regulations to phase out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). - The regulations align with the Montreal Protocol's goal to protect the ozone layer and…
Low-quality coal forces Sri Lanka fuel price hike, says MP Rajapaksa
- Sri Lanka's government has been forced to increase fuel prices primarily due to the use of low-quality coal for power generation, according to MP Namal Rajapaksa. - Rajapaksa stated that the previou…
Financial Scam Targets Drivers Using Fake Traffic Fines
- Sri Lankan authorities are warning of a financial scam targeting drivers through fake traffic violation fines. - Scammers use foreign phone numbers to send SMS or WhatsApp messages claiming CCTV foo…
Rainfall expected in several Sri Lankan provinces on June 2 evening
- The Department of Meteorology forecasts an increase in rainfall in the southwestern parts of Sri Lanka on the evening of June 2, 2026. - Showers are expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North …
Australian and European Investors Visit Sri Lanka for Energy Sector Talks
- Two foreign investors from Australia and Europe have arrived in Sri Lanka to discuss energy sector investments. - Their visit aims to establish Sri Lanka as a sustainable energy hub in South Asia. -…
Sri Lanka's UNP: Government Lacks Power to Establish Religious Court
- The United National Party (UNP) stated the government lacks the authority to establish a "Dharmadhikarana" (religious court). - The UNP argued that the constitution does not grant the executive, leg…
Fuel prices increased in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka has increased the prices of all fuel types, including diesel and petrol, effective from midnight on May 30, 2026. - The price hike includes increases of Rs. 15 for white diesel, Rs. 20 for…
Buddhist teachings should be promoted more widely
- Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated that promoting Buddhist teachings is crucial today. - He emphasized that true devotion during Vesak involves understanding and practicing the Dhamma. - Prem…
Religious revival essential to combat drug abuse, says Sri Lankan President
- Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stressed the need for religious revival among youth to combat drug abuse. - He stated that political patronage for drug trafficking has been broken for …
Sri Lanka extends state of emergency
- Sri Lanka has extended the state of public emergency for an indefinite period. - The decision was made by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake under the Public Security Ordinance. - The emergency meas…
Nearly $1.8 Million Worth of Ice Drugs Found Hidden in Sri Lankan Forest
- Police in Badulla discovered a cache of ice drugs valued at nearly 550 million Sri Lankan rupees hidden in a forest. - This is reportedly the largest drug seizure in the Kalutara district in recent …
Three Remanded in Sri Lanka for Allegedly Soliciting Bribes for Cyclone Compensation
- Three individuals, including a disaster relief officer and a village official, were remanded in custody in Colombo for allegedly soliciting bribes. - The bribes were reportedly demanded in exchange …
Strong Winds Damage Nearly 200 Homes in Puttalam
- A strong wind accompanied by heavy rain caused partial damage to nearly 200 houses in the Medawatta and Vella areas of Chilaw, Puttalam district. - Roofs were damaged, leading to harm to household i…
Doctor Granted Police Bail After Allegedly Setting Fire to Panadura Home
- A doctor serving at a children's and maternity hospital in Panadura, Sri Lanka, has been arrested and released on police bail in connection with setting a house on fire. - The incident occurred on M…
Catholic Church and Government Representatives Meet After Nine Years
- A meeting was held at the Presidential Secretariat between representatives of the Catholic Church and the government to discuss administrative issues concerning Catholic schools taken over by the st…
Condolence Debate for Six Former MPs in Parliament Today
- A debate on condolence motions for six deceased former Members of Parliament will be held in Parliament today. - The motions will be presented for former MPs including Professor Tissa Vitarana and J…
Sri Lanka to Grant Permanent Nursing Appointments by June 10
- Sri Lanka will provide permanent appointments to graduate nurses by June 10. - The appointments are for 517 graduate nurses who completed a six-month training course. - These nurses will be assigned…
Public Sector Salary Hike in January, Says President
- Sri Lankan public sector employees will receive a salary increase in January. - The President stated that salary increments have been implemented in three phases. - He also emphasized the need for a…
Sri Lanka Approves Council to Strengthen SME Regulation
- The Sri Lankan cabinet has approved the establishment of a National Regulatory Reform Council to strengthen regulatory oversight of small and medium-sized enterprises. - The council aims to improve …
US Military Seizes Iranian Oil Tanker in Indian Ocean
- The US military has reportedly seized an Iranian oil tanker, the Sky Wave, in the Indian Ocean. - The seizure is reportedly due to the tanker violating US sanctions against Iran. - This is at least …
Sri Lanka Launches Unified Digital Platform for Diplomatic Missions
- Sri Lanka has launched a new common website platform for seven of its diplomatic missions abroad. - The initiative aims to enhance efficiency, accessibility, transparency, and accountability in publ…
Vehicle Import Liberalization Widens Sri Lanka's Trade Deficit, Central Bank Reports
- Sri Lanka's trade deficit has widened due to increased import expenses following the lifting of vehicle import restrictions, according to the Central Bank. - The economy grew by 5% in 2025, with the…
Parliament to Debate Central Bank's 2025 Economic Review Report
- Sri Lanka's Parliament will debate the Central Bank's 2025 economic review report on May 20. - The debate is initiated by a government proposal, with other legislative matters also scheduled. - The …
Sri Lanka Proposes Fines, Jail Time for TIN Non-Compliance
- Sri Lanka's Inland Revenue Department is proposing amendments to the Inland Revenue Act to make it a criminal offense for citizens over 18 to not obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). - The amen…
US and Israel Reportedly Preparing to Strike Iran Again
- The United States and Israel are reportedly preparing for a potential series of attacks against Iran, possibly beginning this week, according to The New York Times. - This comes after a ceasefire wa…
Young Man and Businessman Remanded in Custody for Railway Track Theft and Train Derailment
- A young man and a businessman have been remanded in custody until May 29 in connection with a railway sabotage incident. - The incident involved the theft of railway tracks, causing a train derailme…
Major Collaboration Launched Against Tobacco Use in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan universities and global health organizations are collaborating to advance tobacco use and smoking cessation strategies. - A recent discussion, organized by the Respire project and involvi…
Two arrested over alleged forceful entry into property linked to Basil Rajapaksa
- Two individuals have been arrested following a complaint filed by the New Jathika Peramuna regarding an incident at a property in Malwana, Dompe. - The complaint alleges forceful entry into a 16-acr…
Namal Rajapaksa at Hong Kong Forum: Development Must Integrate with Civilization for True Achievement
- Sri Lankan MP Namal Rajapaksa stated that significant achievements are realized when development and civilization are integrated. - He addressed the 2026 Asian Cultural Public Welfare Forum in Hong …
Train Derails on Main Line, One Passenger Seriously Injured
- A slow train traveling from Polgahawela to South Kalutara derailed between Wanawasala and Kelaniya early this morning. - One passenger sustained serious injuries in the incident. - The derailment ha…
Two Drown in Kosgama Irrigation Canal
- Two individuals drowned while swimming in an irrigation canal in Kosgama, Sri Lanka. - The bodies of the deceased have been placed at the Kosgama Salawa Provincial Hospital. - Post-mortem examinatio…
Basnagoda Reservoir Spill Gates Opened Amid Heavy Rains
- Three spill gates of the Basnagoda Reservoir in the Gampaha District have been opened by 15 millimeters. - This action was taken due to rising water levels caused by prevailing rainy conditions. - R…
'We will inform the embassies about interference in the judiciary'
- Udaya Gammanpila, leader of Pivithuru Hela Urumaya, stated that the organization will inform international bodies and embassies about the alleged undermining of the rule of law in Sri Lanka. - Gamma…
Sri Lanka's Justice Minister Addresses Judicial System Challenges
- Sri Lankan Minister of Justice, Human Rights, and Legal Reforms, Harkan Nanayakkara, addressed issues within the judicial system. - He stated that problems in the judiciary have persisted for about …
Abu Dhabi Ports Keen on Colombo Port Investment as UAE-Sri Lanka Ties Strengthen
- Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates are strengthening trade and economic ties, with the UAE being a major partner for Sri Lanka's exports and imports. - Abu Dhabi Ports Company has expressed inte…
UNP Questions President's Personal Congratulations to Tamil Nadu CM
- The United National Party (UNP) expressed surprise that Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake personally congratulated C. Joseph Vijay on becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. - The UNP…
Complaint filed over alleged bribe for Vesak zone
- A complaint has been filed alleging a bribe was solicited to allow a Vesak zone on Bauddhaloka Mawatha. - The former chairman of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress was reportedly offered 30 lakh rupee…
Sri Lanka Seeks Solutions to US Visa Issues for Seafarers
- Sri Lankan seafarers face significant challenges with US visa rejections, hindering their access to international maritime employment and training opportunities. - A series of discussions have been …
Sri Lanka's Police Stations May Be Reduced, Says Minister
- Sri Lanka's Minister of Public Security, Tiran Alles, stated that the number of police stations in the country exceeds the required amount. - He indicated that some police stations might be consider…
Three Colombo Municipal Councilors Go Independent, Leave United Opposition
- Three councilors from the Colombo Municipal Council have declared themselves independent, leaving the United Opposition. - The councilors, who previously worked with the United Opposition, announced…
Former President Rajapaksa Appears Before Bribery Commission Over Airbus Deal
- Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa appeared before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. - Rajapaksa provided a statement for about two hours regarding an in…
Sri Lanka Government Pledges to Bring Wealth to the People Through Economic Democratization
- Sri Lanka's Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation, K.D. Lallkantha, stated that the government will continue to implement measures to bring wealth to the people. - He emphasized …
Kapila Chandrasena's Death No Obstacle to Air Bus Investigation
- The investigation into the Air Bus deal will proceed despite the recent death of former SriLankan Airlines CEO Kapila Chandrasena. - Authorities can pursue other suspects, including Chandrasena's wi…
Finance Committee's Treasury Heist Report Criticized for Shifting Blame
- A parliamentary finance committee report on the treasury heist has been criticized by the Organization of Free Lawyers for attempting to shift blame onto 'soulless computer systems'. - The organizat…
Former President Rajapaksa to Appear Before Bribery Commission Tuesday
- Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated he will appear before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption on Tuesday. - Rajapaksa made the statement after paying his respect…
Sri Lankan Official Appointed Chairperson of WTO Balance of Payments Committee
- Samantha Wijesekera has been appointed as the new chairperson of the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Balance of Payments Committee. - Wijesekera brings nearly 25 years of experience from Sri Lanka'…
Need for Teacher Training Suited for Digital Education, Says PM Amarasuriya
- Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stressed the need for proper teacher training alongside digital infrastructure development for Sri Lanka's education system. - She emphasized creating quality digit…
Sri Lankan twins win best dance award at China festival
- A Sri Lankan team of twins won the award for the best dance performance at the 20th World Largest Twins Festival in Mojiang, China. - The winning dance, inspired by the traditional 'Angampaliya' dan…
MasterChef Sri Lanka: Grand finale tonight
- The grand finale of 'MasterChef Sri Lanka' airs tonight, concluding the show's inaugural season. - The competition has captivated culinary enthusiasts and the general public for several months. - Th…
Vehicles Failing Emission Standards to Be Blacklisted in Sri Lanka
- Vehicles failing to comply with 'maintenance orders' for excessive smoke emissions will be blacklisted by the Department of Motor Vehicles. - Owners of blacklisted vehicles will face significant obs…
Two Foreign Nationals Arrested with Counterfeit Dollars in Galle
- Police in Galle, Sri Lanka, arrested two Tajikistani nationals with over 1.5 million rupees worth of counterfeit US dollars. - The suspects attempted to exchange the fake currency for motorcycles, a…
What Happened to Online Vehicle Registration?
- A Sri Lankan MP highlighted the prolonged waiting times of two to three weeks for vehicle registration at the Department of Motor Traffic. - He questioned the status of the promised online registrat…
Missing Father Found Dead in Sri Lankan Salt Pan
- A man who had been missing for three days was found dead in a water-filled salt pan in Puliyankulam, Sri Lanka. - The deceased has been identified as 41-year-old Warnakulasuriya Namal Fernando, a fa…
Upcountry Railway Line Nears Full Restoration After Cyclone and Flood Damage
- 92 out of 97 damaged sections of the Upcountry railway line, affected by floods and a cyclone, have been restored. - The damage, reported between Maradana and Peradeniya, included landslides, soil e…
Iranian Foreign Minister Visits China Amid Regional Tensions
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is on an official visit to China to discuss regional and global issues. - The visit comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns over global…
Maldivian President Departs
- Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu concluded his four-day official visit to Sri Lanka. - He departed from Katunayake Airport early on May 6th, accompanied by his wife and a delegation of 20. - The M…
Vijay's Party Seeks Congress Support for Tamil Nadu Government
- The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party, led by actor Thalapathy Vijay, has requested support from the Tamil Nadu Congress party to form a government. - Despite winning the most seats in the state assemb…
Vijay's Victory: Poised to Form Government in Tamil Nadu
- Thalapathy Vijay's political party, Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has secured a significant victory in the Tamil Nadu state assembly elections, winning 108 out of 108 seats contested. - TVK emerg…
Import Vehicle Prices to Surge in Sri Lanka Amid Tax Hikes and Rupee Depreciation
- Import vehicle prices in Sri Lanka are expected to rise significantly starting May 1st due to a 2.5% increase in the Social Security Contribution Levy (SSCL) and the continued depreciation of the Sr…
Sri Lanka Seeks FBI Help in $2.5 Million Treasury Cyber Fraud Probe
- Sri Lankan investigators are seeking assistance from the FBI for a probe into a $2.5 million financial fraud targeting the national treasury. - The fraud involved unauthorized access to the email sy…
Teacher's body found on South Kalutara beach 5 days later
- The body of a female teacher was discovered on the southern coast of Kalutara after she left home following a severe disagreement. - The deceased has been identified as Nadishani Tharanganika Amaran…
Rain Expected in Several Provinces Today
- The Department of Meteorology forecasts rain and thunderstorms in several provinces and districts across Sri Lanka for the afternoon of May 3, 2026. - Specific areas include the Western, Sabaragamuw…
Sri Lanka Imports $613 Million in Vehicles in First 3 Months Amid Eased Restrictions
- Sri Lanka imported vehicles worth $613 million in the first quarter of this year, a significant increase from $61 million in the same period last year. - This surge follows the relaxation of vehicle…
Trump Threatens Troop Withdrawal from Italy, Spain Over Iran Campaign Criticism
- U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw troops from Italy and Spain. - Trump cited their criticism of the U.S. military campaign in Iran as the reason for the potential withdrawal. - …
Lightning strike kills two farmers in Sri Lanka
- Two farmers were killed by a strong lightning strike while working in their fields in the Wijithapura area. - The victims have been identified as Jemaldeen Badurdeen, 50, and Tennakoon Mudiyanselage…
Sri Lanka's Opposition Claims Government is Run by 'Pocket Thieves'
- Namal Rajapaksa, National Organizer of the Podujana Peramuna, claims the current government is controlled by "pocket thieves" and has effectively "robbed the Ministry of Finance." - He alleges the g…
Ehipassiko Peace Walk Reaches Yakkala Today
- A peace walk, "Ehipassiko," led by 13 monks including Vietnamese monk Ven. Pannakara Thero, began its fifth day today. - The walk started from Tholangamuwa National School and will proceed to Abeyse…
Over 6 Million Rupees Worth of Cigarettes Seized at Katunayake Airport
- Sri Lankan customs officials at Bandaranaike International Airport apprehended a passenger attempting to smuggle a significant quantity of foreign cigarettes and e-cigarettes. - The seized items, va…
Former Deputy Minister Arrested with Illegal Arms Cache
- Former Deputy Minister Chandana Kathriarachchi was arrested with a cache of illegal weapons and explosives. - Police searched his residence and seized firearms, magazines, ammunition, and a hand gre…
Committee to Implement Easter Commission Recommendations
- The Sri Lankan cabinet has approved the formation of a committee to implement recommendations from the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Easter Sunday attacks. - The committee will oversee…
Sri Lankan Police Donate One Day's Salary to National Rebuilding Fund
- Police officers in Sri Lanka donated their one-day salary to the 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' fund. - The donation amounted to LKR 9,687,462, aimed at aiding victims of the recent cyclone and rebuilding t…
Controller General of Immigration and Emigration Appointed in Sri Lanka
- The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved the appointment of Iresh Waraminda Pathiraja as the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration. - Pathiraja, a Special Grade officer in the Sri Lanka Admini…
Man arrested for impersonating PM's secretary to secure school admissions
- A man was arrested for impersonating the Prime Minister's private secretary to admit two students to a prominent school. - The suspect allegedly used forged documents and AI-generated images to gain…
50 Foreign Nationals Arrested for Overstaying Visas in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan immigration officials arrested 50 foreign nationals who overstayed their business visas. - The group included 47 Chinese nationals, two Malaysians, and one Indian. - They were apprehended…
Ragama Hair Cutting Case: More Suspects Remanded
- Two more suspects were arrested in connection with the assault and cutting of a woman's hair in Ragama. - The suspects, who are employees of the shop where the incident occurred, were remanded in cu…
8 Children Killed in US Shooting
- A mass shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana, resulted in the deaths of eight children. - The shooter, identified as Shamarr Elkins, was reportedly the father of seven of the deceased children. - Elkins…
Iranian Boats Fire on Indian Ships in Strait of Hormuz
- Iranian attack boats fired on two Indian-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. - No damage or injuries were reported, but the ships were forced to alter course. - India summoned the Iranian ambas…
Sri Lanka: Former Energy Minister Jayakody to Take Backbench Seat Post-Resignation
- Former Sri Lankan Energy Minister, Kumara Jayakody, will be allocated a backbench seat in Parliament following his resignation. - Jayakody resigned from his ministerial post on Friday, April 17, 202…
Sri Lanka Invites Applications for Presidential Environmental Awards 2026
- Sri Lanka's Central Environmental Authority is accepting applications for the Presidential Environmental Awards 2026. - Applications must be submitted by April 30, with awards presented in categorie…
Sri Lanka Appoints Commission to Probe Coal Imports and Power Generation
- A presidential commission has been appointed to investigate irregularities and illegal activities in Sri Lanka's coal importation and electricity generation processes. - The commission will examine …
Suspect Arrested with 3 Million Worth of Drugs
- Police in Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka, arrested a suspect linked to a drug ring, seizing narcotics valued at approximately 3 million rupees. - The arrested individual is reportedly a close associate of a…
1,298 Rounds of Ammunition Emerge Near Parakrama Samudra Reservoir
- Police discovered 1,298 T-56 ammunition rounds hidden near the Parakrama Samudra reservoir in Polonnaruwa. - The ammunition was found near the D.S. Senanayake statue, and a fertilizer sack suspected…
Suspected Drug Trafficker Drowns While Fleeing Police in Sri Lanka
- A person involved in a drug trafficking operation in Beruwala, Sri Lanka, jumped into the sea to evade police and drowned. - The individual's identity has not yet been confirmed. - Police launched a…
Ex-MPs Complain to Global Bodies Over Sri Lanka Parliament Scandals
- Former Sri Lankan MPs have lodged complaints with three international organizations regarding alleged illegal and unethical actions within the parliament. - The complaints, signed by the Forum of Ex…
Husband Allegedly Murders Wife in Her Sleep Amidst Infidelity Dispute
- A 27-year-old mother of one was allegedly murdered by her husband with a sharp weapon while she slept in her home in Walala, Sri Lanka. - The victim had recently returned from overseas and had a dis…
Israel-Lebanon Peace Talks Conclude Without Agreement in Washington
- Peace talks between Israel and Lebanon, mediated by the US, concluded in Washington without a clear agreement. - The talks, attended by ambassadors from both nations and led by a Trump administratio…
Pope Leo XIV Begins African Tour in Algeria, Emphasizes Peace
- Pope Leo XIV has begun an apostolic visit to Algeria, the first stage of his tour of Africa. - During his visit, he toured the historic Hippo archaeological site and planted an olive sapling as a sy…
