January 22, Colombo (LNW): The Police inaugurated a specialised programme today (22), utilising the CCTV system in Colombo to identify motorists breaching traffic regulations.

Public Security Minister Tiran Alles and Acting Inspector General of Police Deshabandu Thennakoon officially launched the initiative at the CCTV division in Colombo, marking the first traffic violation identification through the CCTV system.

The Colombo city boasts at least 108 CCTV cameras strategically placed in key locations and flyovers. Despite the programme’s initiation, there will be a week-long awareness campaign for motorists to familiarise them with the new initiative.

Starting from February 01, the law against traffic violators will be actively enforced, as communicated by the IGP.

Thennakoon highlighted the efficacy of the CCTV traffic violation identification system, emphasising its role in enabling traffic duty officers to deliver efficient services, ultimately reducing traffic congestions.

Video evidence of offenses captured by the Traffic Division’s CCTV system will be transmitted to respective police stations, and fines will be issued to offending drivers.

Minister Alles expressed plans to expand the programme nationwide, incorporating the latest technology. He further underscored the importance of enhancing each division of the Sri Lanka Police with modern technology to bolster overall effectiveness.

January 22, Colombo (LNW): The comprehensive report on the investigation into the human immunoglobulin transaction has been submitted to the Attorney General for legal guidance, marking a crucial step in the investigative process.

In alignment with established legal protocols, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will adhere to the directives provided by the Attorney General for the subsequent phases of the investigation.

As part of the ongoing investigative efforts, the CID plans to re-record the statement of ex Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella concerning the drug transaction.

The decision comes after a thorough review of documents obtained from various sources, including an additional Health Ministry secretary.

It is essential to note that these investigative activities are conducted collaboratively with the Attorney General’s Department, ensuring a comprehensive and legally sound approach to the proceedings.

The status of former Health Secretary Janaka Sri Chandragupta and other individuals implicated in the drug transaction remains unchanged, with their arrest and subsequent remand reflecting the seriousness of the allegations under investigation.

January 22, Colombo (LNW): Leader of the political party ‘Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya’ Saman Perera is reportedly among the five persons killed in the shooting incident in Beliatta, Tangalla area earlier this (22) morning.

The ‘Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya’ gained a parliamentary seat in the last General Election and Ven. Athuraliya Ratana Thera entered Parliament representing the party.

It was noteworthy that Secretary of the Bodu Bala Sena Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera also contested the polls through the ‘Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya.’

Previous report:

January 22, Colombo (LNW): Three deaths attributed to dengue fever have been reported within the first 20 days of the year, the National Dengue Control Unit noted.

Official reports from the unit indicate a significant increase in the daily number of reported dengue cases, reaching 347 cases.

Since the beginning of the year, a total of 7,299 individuals have been identified as dengue patients, signaling a cause for heightened vigilance and preventive measures.

The highest concentration of dengue cases is reported in the Western Province, with a total of 2,401 cases.

The spike in dengue cases is indicative of the continued threat posed by the dengue virus, necessitating sustained efforts in mosquito control, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement.

Health authorities are likely to intensify measures to curb the spread of dengue, especially in areas with high reported cases.

Citizens are advised to take precautions such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito repellents, and seeking medical attention promptly in case of suspected symptoms.

January 22, Colombo (LNW): An organised gang is operating across the country, engaging in fraudulent activities through telephone calls where they pose as police officers to extort money, Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa disclosed.

Numerous complaints have been lodged at various police stations, particularly targeting landlines in the Mulleriya and Nawagamuwa areas, he noted.

The impostors, claiming to be police officials, inform residents about their alleged involvement in crimes and ongoing police investigations.

They further assert that residents will face arrest in connection to investigations related to the Easter attack suspect Zahran.

The fraudsters attempt to extort money from victims, falsely asserting that it will prevent legal action against them.

Some residents have reportedly deposited money through ez cash in response to such calls.

The incident has been brought to the attention of the court, and investigations are in progress to identify the suspects, the Police Spokesman went on, urging the public to exercise caution and not succumb to such fraudulent attempts.

Thalduwa further asserted that the Police do not make such calls.

January 22, Colombo (LNW): A fatal shooting occurred near the Beliatta entrance on the Southern Expressway, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals.

Four individuals lost their lives at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries upon admission to the hospital, according to correspondents.

The incident occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. when a group of individuals in a Prado-type vehicle targeted another group in a Defender jeep.

Law enforcement authorities suspect the involvement of the underworld criminal gang led by ‘Kosgoda Sujee’ in the shooting incident.

January 22, Colombo (LNW): 910 more suspects have been apprehended within 24 hours ending 12.30 am today (22) by the ‘Yukthiya’ (Justice) operation.

65 kilograms of heroin, 136 grams of crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’) and 254 narcotic pills were taken into custody during the raid, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

Operation ‘Yukthiya’ was launched in last year’s December to crackdown the drug menace and illicit activities in the island.