Colombo (LNW):An Air India passenger plane carrying 242 people crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, a major city in western India, early Thursday morning.
Images from the crash site show thick plumes of black smoke rising into the sky. The full extent of casualties is still unclear.
The flight, AI171, was en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, where it was scheduled to arrive at 6:25 p.m. local time (1:25 p.m. ET).
In a statement, Air India confirmed that the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the incident had taken off from Ahmedabad International Airport and suffered an accident shortly after departure.
The airline said there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian aboard the aircraft, including both passengers and crew. Injured individuals are being transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Air India Plane Carrying 242 Passengers Crashes in Ahmedabad.
Prisons Dept receives new spokesperson
June 12, Colombo (LNW): Commissioner Jagath Weerasinghe has reportedly been appointed as the new spokesperson for the Department of Prisons.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed the appointment amid rising scrutiny following a controversial prisoner release that has sparked widespread public concern.
The change in spokesperson comes shortly after the resignation of Commissioner Gamini B. Dissanayake, who stepped down from his media duties earlier in the day.
His departure is believed to be linked to recent revelations regarding the questionable release of an inmate from Anuradhapura Prison, allegedly under the guise of a presidential pardon issued for Vesak Poya.
In the wake of the incident, senior officials at the Ministry of Justice have begun reviewing the current structure of the Department of Prisons. Plans are now underway to implement a series of administrative reforms, including a reassignment of key supervisory positions across the country. These changes are expected to address longstanding concerns about internal accountability and systemic inefficiencies.
The leadership of the department has already undergone a shake-up, with the former Commissioner General of Prisons, Thushara Upuldeniya, being placed on suspension. In his absence, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Justice, Nishan Dhanasinghe, has taken over in an acting capacity. Dhanasinghe, who is known for his administrative acumen, is now tasked with overseeing the reforms and restoring public trust in the system.
Health authorities warn of sharp rise in rat fever cases as monsoon season sparks concern
June 12, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s health officials have raised alarms over a growing number of leptospirosis infections, commonly referred to as “rat fever”, which have been steadily increasing with the onset of the monsoon rains.
The bacterial illness, which thrives in waterlogged environments and flood-prone zones, is drawing renewed concern from both the medical community and public health authorities.
Speaking at a recent media briefing hosted by the Health Promotion Bureau, senior epidemiologist Dr Thushani Dabarera explained that the majority of reported infections are concentrated in the districts of Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Kegalle, Gampaha, and Kalutara—areas that have experienced a combination of heavy rainfall and high levels of agricultural activity.
According to Dr Dabarera, the disease is spread through a bacterium that is most commonly found in the urine of rodents, especially rats, and is transmitted when contaminated water or soil comes into contact with human skin, often through cuts or abrasions.
She noted that populations most at risk include paddy field workers, individuals involved in gem mining in certain districts, and agricultural labourers in flood-affected or swampy areas. The cultivation of ‘Keerakotu’, a common leafy vegetable grown in wet fields, has also been identified as a possible source of exposure. Dr Dabarera urged these communities to take preventative measures, including the use of protective footwear and gloves, and to avoid wading through stagnant water whenever possible.
Health professionals also issued a broader warning about the seasonal spike in viral fevers among children. Consultant paediatrician Dr Kosala Karunaratne of Lady Ridgeway Hospital in Colombo explained that the monsoon period often sees a proliferation of so-called “sour fevers”—a colloquial term used to describe a cluster of illnesses that tend to peak during this time of year. Among these are dengue, influenza, Chikungunya, and diarrhoea-related fevers, in addition to leptospirosis.
Dr Karunaratne advised parents to be especially vigilant if their children exhibit symptoms such as persistent high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, or difficulty urinating. He stressed the importance of seeking prompt medical attention rather than waiting for symptoms to subside on their own, as delays in treatment could lead to serious complications, particularly with illnesses like dengue or rat fever which can escalate quickly.
Prisons Spokesman steps down amidst growing scrutiny over controversial inmate release
June 12, Colombo (LNW): A senior figure within Sri Lanka’s prison administration has stepped down, intensifying the fallout from a recent controversy surrounding the premature release of an inmate under questionable circumstances.
Commissioner Gamini B. Dissanayake, who served as the official media spokesperson for the Department of Prisons, is understood to have submitted his resignation to the Acting Commissioner General, citing concerns linked to the widely criticised release of a detainee from Anuradhapura Prison during the Vesak Poya period.
The pardon, which was issued under a special Presidential amnesty scheme, has come under increasing public and political scrutiny due to allegations that due process was not followed.
Though full details of the inmate’s identity and case remain undisclosed, civil society watchdogs and legal analysts have raised concerns about transparency and the potential misuse of executive clemency.
In the wake of the suspension of Commissioner General Thushara Upuldeniya, who had previously been at the helm of the Department, the Ministry of Justice appointed Additional Secretary Nishan Dhanasinghe to serve as Acting Commissioner General.
Sri Lanka Boosts Export Footprint with Organic Growth and Ethical Manufacturing.
By: Staff Writer
June 12, Colombo (LNW):Sri Lanka is making significant strides in expanding its export portfolio, particularly in organic produce and ethical manufacturing, with 2025 shaping up to be a promising year for the nation’s export sector.
The Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe announced that the country has secured quarantine clearance for the export of bananas and pineapples—opening new avenues in the fresh fruit market globally.
In an address highlighting the nation’s export potential, Wijesinghe underscored Sri Lanka’s growing reputation as a flagship green destination. “We are home to the world’s first ozone-friendly tea grower, and our commitment to ethical and sustainable practices is what makes Sri Lanka a trusted sourcing destination,” he said.
Tea remains a cornerstone of the country’s export economy, with all tea produced using 100% ozone-friendly methods. Sri Lanka continues to lead the global market in value-added tea products, setting benchmarks for environmental and quality standards.
The EDB Chairman also noted the country’s impressive performance in fisheries. Currently, 34 EU-approved fish processing establishments operate in Sri Lanka, all using sustainable fishing techniques.
Every vessel in the industry is licensed under the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), ensuring full compliance with international laws such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing regulations.
Coconut-based exports are another area of strength, with production facilities certified under ISO and HACCP standards. These include desiccated coconut, coconut milk, and coconut milk powder, all produced in eco-conscious environments, free from animal cruelty and using organically certified coconut farms.
In niche markets, Sri Lanka holds unique leadership positions. The country is the world’s largest supplier of tawashi brushes and the top global exporter of brown fibre.
Moreover, it has achieved Geographical Indication (GI) recognition for Ceylon Cinnamon in the European Union, enhancing its global brand identity. The ‘Pure Ceylon Cinnamon’ trademark is now registered in key international markets including the USA, Peru, Colombia, and the EU.
Looking at the broader export outlook for 2025, Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports are projected to grow steadily, driven by rising global demand for ethical, organic, and sustainable products. Key export sectors such as apparel, rubber, spices, ICT services, and food and beverage are also showing positive momentum.
Crucially, Sri Lanka maintains a strong commitment to labour rights and sustainability. “Our industries do not rely on child labour, forced labour, or sweatshop practices,” Wijesinghe reaffirmed.
More than 80% of Sri Lanka’s manufacturing facilities meet international environmental and labour standards, strengthening the country’s appeal as a responsible trade partner on the world stage.
DFCC Bank Secures $12M Boost to Power SMEs and Clean Energy in Sri Lanka
By: Staff Writer
June 12, Colombo (LNW):In a timely financial development for Sri Lanka’s small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, DFCC Bank has secured a $12 million funding facility from European impact investment platform Symbiotics, with a strong focus on renewable energy and solar adoption. The funding, consisting of a $6.25 million tranche in U.S. dollars and an LKR-equivalent of $5.75 million, will support clean energy projects and empower SMEs adopting sustainable business practices.
The facility was structured by Symbiotics through the issuance of bonds specifically for DFCC Bank, which are now listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange under an International Securities Identification Number (ISIN). TSW Capital Services Ltd., based in India, served as the transaction advisor to DFCC Bank.
DFCC Bank has long supported sustainable and inclusive finance. This latest initiative not only underscores the institution’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also provides critical access to affordable finance for local enterprises. “This funding enables us to direct international capital into local projects that matter – clean energy, small businesses, long-term growth,” said Prins Perera, DFCC Bank’s Senior Vice President – Head of Treasury, Investment and Wholesale Banking.
He highlighted the importance of the facility, especially given the current challenges Sri Lanka faces in accessing foreign funding. Notably, a portion of the funding was disbursed in Sri Lankan Rupees, allowing DFCC Bank to minimize foreign exchange risk and pass on the benefit of stable, lower-cost financing to local borrowers. This approach sets a rare precedent in international borrowing for Sri Lankan institutions and could serve as a model for similar deals in the future.
The funding aligns with Sri Lanka’s national goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, reinforcing DFCC Bank’s role in supporting green transformation. It also directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by improving local access to sustainable energy financing.
More broadly, the initiative strengthens DFCC Bank’s growing green finance portfolio, which supports climate-friendly economic development, particularly in the underserved SME sector. The bank continues to act as a bridge between global impact capital and Sri Lankan enterprises, playing a pivotal role in the country’s transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy.
Russia and Sri Lanka Boost Military Ties with Joint Anti-Terrorism Exercise Planning.
By: Staff Writer
June 12, Colombo (LNW):In a move to strengthen bilateral military cooperation, Russia and Sri Lanka held the second planning conference for their upcoming joint military anti-terrorism exercises. The conference took place at the Eastern Military District headquarters in Russia, according to an official statement from the Russian Military District on Monday.
This series of joint exercises will focus on counter-terrorism operations, with both countries’ forces preparing to simulate the elimination of illegal armed groups in jungle and urban combat environments. The training will emphasize coordinated tactics, command structures, and operational communication to tackle evolving global threats.
From the Russian side, the Air Force delegation was led by acting Commander Lieutenant General Mikhail Nosulev. The Sri Lankan delegation was headed by Deputy Army Commander Major General Vedage Vimalarate.
Assistant Commander for International Military Cooperation Ivan Taraev noted that the exercises would “not only enrich mutual experience but also help develop common approaches to neutralizing global challenges, primarily terrorism.”
This follows an earlier conference held in Sri Lanka in May 2025, during which military representatives from both countries exchanged tactical insights and shared best practices in anti-terror operations. Although the exact dates and the hosting country for the final joint exercises have not been confirmed, officials have indicated that planning is progressing smoothly.
Russia and Sri Lanka share a longstanding history of military and technical cooperation dating back to the 1960s. Throughout Sri Lanka’s internal conflict period, the Soviet Union—and later the Russian Federation—provided critical military assistance, including weapons and training support. Notably, Sri Lanka acquired Russian MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, significantly enhancing its air interdiction capabilities.
Today, this cooperation extends beyond equipment supply. The Russian Defense Attaché in Colombo has highlighted continuing partnerships with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), emphasizing the importance of training programs and a shared vision for expanded collaboration. Educational opportunities for Sri Lankan youth in Russian military academies have also been proposed, with support from both the MoD and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education.
In addition to military ties, the two nations maintain a robust political relationship. High-level dialogues, interparliamentary exchanges, and foreign ministry consultations have been institutionalized, including through an inter-ministerial consultation mechanism established in 2000.
As both countries continue to navigate complex security challenges in the 21st century, these joint exercises underscore a deepening strategic partnership built on decades of trust, shared interests, and mutual defense cooperation.
Government officials engage in strategic dialogue with Tony Blair Institute representatives
June 12, Colombo (LNW): A high-level meeting took place at the Presidential Secretariat today, bringing together senior representatives of the Sri Lankan government and delegates from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.
The discussion, led by Presidential Secretary Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, aimed to establish a collaborative framework for aligning international expertise with the country’s new development agenda.
The visiting delegation from the Tony Blair Institute arrived in Colombo as part of an ongoing initiative to support nations undergoing economic and institutional transformation. The dialogue focused on gaining a clearer understanding of the strategic priorities of the newly elected administration and exploring avenues for targeted support across key sectors.
During the meeting, particular emphasis was placed on evaluating current initiatives spearheaded by pivotal government entities including the Ministry of Digital Economy, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Export Development Board, and the Board of Investment.
The discussions aimed not only to identify the most pressing policy objectives within these institutions but also to consider how international partners might contribute through financial backing, technical expertise, and institutional support.
As part of a broader programme of engagement, the visiting officials from the Institute expressed their intention to undertake field-level assessments of ongoing government projects. These site visits will enable the team to gather first-hand insights into operational challenges and institutional capacities, with a view to tailoring their assistance to practical needs.
The delegation was led by Jaleel Rashid, Managing Director for the Asia Pacific Advisory Division, accompanied by Anna Aden, who oversees governmental liaison efforts for the region. They were joined by a range of local senior officials, including Senior Additional Secretaries to the President Roshan Gamage and Russel Aponso, who helped facilitate the discussion and outline the broader reform trajectory envisaged by the administration.
Also participating were sectoral heads from the Digital Economy, Agriculture, and Investment portfolios. Among them were B.M.V.S. Basnayake, who directs agricultural technology initiatives; Janaka Geekiyanage, representing the Ministry of Digital Economy; Renuka M. Weerakone, Director General of the Board of Investment; and Mangala Wijesinghe, Chair and CEO of the Export Development Board.
Ex-senior Police officer reveals orders behind Weligama Hotel shooting
June 12, Colombo (LNW): A former senior officer attached to Colombo’s criminal investigations unit has disclosed that a controversial police shooting incident in late 2023 was carried out under direct instructions from his superior, despite clear legal and ethical concerns.
Appearing before a parliamentary oversight committee on Wednesday, retired Chief Inspector Anselm de Silva recounted the events surrounding a covert police operation that took place at a beachfront hotel in Weligama on December 30, 2023. The inquiry forms part of a wider investigation into the conduct of suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP), Deshabandu Tennakoon.
De Silva, who formerly headed operations at the Colombo Crime Division, stated that he had received verbal instructions from then-Acting Director of the unit, Assistant Superintendent Neville de Silva, to lead a tactical mission against what was described as a suspected gathering of criminal figures at the W15 Hotel.
The operation escalated dramatically when, according to the former officer, police personnel opened fire on the hotel’s signboard and exterior wall. Moments later, the officers were met with return fire from unknown assailants, resulting in one of the team members sustaining a gunshot wound. The situation quickly descended into chaos, prompting an urgent withdrawal.
“I gave the order to retreat immediately,” De Silva told the committee. “There was a terrifying moment when the Special Task Force transport didn’t start—had it failed altogether, more lives could have been lost.”
Significantly, the officer admitted that the official statement submitted after the incident had been deliberately falsified. The fabricated account was allegedly crafted to mislead investigators into believing the team had been targeted by an unknown third party, thereby distancing the operation from police culpability.
This version, he said, was prepared on the advice of ASP Neville de Silva, who suggested that such a narrative would shield them from criminal or disciplinary consequences.
Only after realising that the matter was unlikely to be brushed aside did the former Chief Inspector approach the Criminal Investigation Department with the true sequence of events. Since then, he has been interdicted from service and no longer receives his pension, which he described as a heavy personal cost for following what he now views as a deeply flawed command decision.
“I acknowledge that we followed orders which were unlawful,” he testified. “In this institution, refusing an instruction from above often results in being marginalised or transferred without explanation.”
De Silva went on to reveal further troubling details, including the use of forged vehicle registration plates on the police vehicle used during the raid. At least one of the officers involved has reportedly fled the country.
BASL raises alarm over alleged irregular Presidential Pardon
By: Isuru Parakrama
June 12, Colombo (LNW): The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has issued a strongly worded letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, expressing serious concern over reports of an alleged irregular release of a convicted inmate from Anuradhapura Prison under the guise of a Presidential Pardon.
The incident has triggered widespread unease within legal circles over possible procedural violations and institutional malpractice.
In its letter dated June 11, 2025, the BASL urged the President to take immediate steps to address the issue, highlighting that Article 34 of the Constitution permits the Head of State to grant pardons.
However, the Association stressed that such powers must be exercised in a manner that is “transparent, procedurally sound, and consistent with judicial precedent.”
Referring to the Supreme Court judgement in Hirunika Premachandra v. Attorney General (SC/FR 221/2021), the BASL pointed out that the President’s clemency powers are subject to judicial review, especially when there are indications that due process may have been undermined.
The association noted that the alleged release has raised serious questions over the misuse of administrative authority, breaches in internal controls of the prison system, and a potential breakdown in procedural integrity.
According to the BASL, subsequent clarifications from the Presidential Media Division revealed that no such official pardon had been granted by President Dissanayake, suggesting that the release may have been unauthorised. The letter described these developments as indicative of “serious institutional failings” and warned of potential abuse of power.
“The Rule of Law must prevail without exception,” the BASL stated, urging that there should be no tolerance for arbitrary or unlawful releases that may disregard victims’ rights or judicial decisions.
To address the concerns, the BASL called on the President to launch a “full and impartial investigation” into the matter. It emphasised the need to identify and hold accountable all those involved, including disciplinary or legal action where necessary.
It also urged the strengthening of transparency and accountability within the Department of Prisons, particularly through institutional reforms.
