April 05, Colombo (LNW): Six Sri Lankan fishermen who had been held in Bangladesh for several months have now returned home, following sustained diplomatic efforts between the two countries.
The group, who had been in custody since July last year after their vessel reportedly strayed into foreign waters, arrived in Sri Lanka in the early hours of 2 April. They landed at Bandaranaike International Airport aboard a flight operated by FitsAir.
Officials stated that their release was secured through continuous engagement by Sri Lanka’s diplomatic mission in Dhaka, working closely with Bangladeshi authorities. The move has been described as a reflection of the cordial ties and mutual understanding shared between the two nations.
The fishermen had been travelling on a multi-day fishing expedition when they were intercepted. Their prolonged detention had raised concerns among families and local fishing communities back home, prompting appeals for government intervention.
Authorities confirmed that the repatriation process involved coordination between several state institutions, including consular officials, fisheries authorities, and diplomatic representatives stationed in Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka has since conveyed its gratitude to the Bangladeshi government for facilitating the release, noting that such cooperation underscores the importance of regional goodwill, particularly in resolving issues affecting livelihoods at sea.
Detained Sri Lankan Fishermen Return Home After Months in Bangladesh Custody
Diplomatic Row Erupts Over Sri Lankan Official’s Visit to Puducherry
April 05, Colombo (LNW): Tensions have surfaced following allegations that Sri Lanka’s Deputy Consul General in South India, Ganesanathan Ketheeswaran, overstepped diplomatic boundaries during a recent visit to Puducherry.
The criticism was voiced by Pawan Khera, a senior figure within the All India Congress Committee, who accused the diplomat of engaging in activities that could be construed as interference in domestic matters.
According to reports, Ketheeswaran attended a gathering in the coastal locality of Vaithikuppam at the invitation of Jose Charles Martin, head of a regional political outfit. The meeting focused on hearing concerns raised by local fishing communities. Also present was V. P. Ramalingam, a prominent political figure in the region.
Khera argued that the diplomat’s participation in such an event may contravene the principles outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which obliges foreign envoys to refrain from involvement in the host country’s internal affairs. Both India and Sri Lanka are signatories to the convention.
Raising the issue publicly, Khera called on the Election Commission of India to examine the circumstances surrounding the meeting. He also urged Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to clarify New Delhi’s diplomatic stance on the matter.
The incident has sparked debate over the limits of diplomatic engagement, particularly in politically sensitive settings, with observers noting that even informal interactions can carry wider implications.
The Deputy Consul General of Sri Lanka for South India, Mr. Ganesanathan Ketheeswaran, was invited by Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK) chief Jose Charles Martin to meet fishermen in the Vaithikuppam area of Puducherry and hear their grievances.
— Pawan Khera 🇮🇳 (@Pawankhera) April 4, 2026
The BJP’s Puducherry President and… https://t.co/DX68amOxVo
Beijing Event Marks Milestone in Sri Lanka–China Ties with New Publication
April 05, Colombo (LNW): A commemorative coffee table book celebrating decades of friendship between Sri Lanka and China has been launched in Beijing, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Titled “Sri Lanka – China Relations: Community with a Shared Future”, the volume was introduced by the Sri Lankan Embassy at a formal gathering attended by senior Chinese officials, members of the diplomatic community, and representatives from international friendship organisations.
Penned by seasoned diplomat Ananda Kumarasiri, the book offers a sweeping account of Sri Lanka’s historical journey, cultural depth, and enduring identity on the global stage. It also reflects on the evolution of ties with China, portraying a partnership shaped by mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Addressing the audience, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to China, Majintha Jayesinghe, reflected on the establishment of bilateral relations in 1957, noting that the connection between the two ქვეყნies stretches back centuries through trade and cultural exchange. He commended the author’s work in capturing the spirit of the island nation and its longstanding engagement with the world.
The ambassador further expressed optimism that the publication would serve not only as a tribute to past achievements but also as an प्रेरation for deepening cooperation in the years ahead.
In his remarks, Dr Kumarasiri pointed to emerging opportunities for collaboration, particularly in fields such as innovation, green energy, industrial advancement, and sustainable resource management. He suggested that both countries are well positioned to expand their partnership in ways that deliver tangible benefits to their peoples.
The event concluded with renewed expressions of goodwill, underscoring a shared commitment to strengthening ties in an increasingly interconnected world.
Islandwide Crackdown Nets Hundreds as Anti-Drug Drive Intensifies
April 05, Colombo (LNW): A sweeping security operation conducted across Sri Lanka has led to the arrest of more than 900 individuals, as authorities ramp up efforts to combat narcotics and related criminal activity.
Police confirmed that 906 people were taken into custody during Friday’s raid under the ongoing “Nation United – National Drive” initiative, which has been expanded in recent weeks amid growing concern over organised drug networks.
In addition to the arrests, financial investigations have been launched into a dozen individuals suspected of accumulating wealth through unlawful means. Officers have also secured detention orders for 15 suspects believed to have deeper links to illicit operations.
Parallel operations targeting crime and drug-related offences resulted in the apprehension of a further 592 individuals on suspicion, signalling a broad and coordinated enforcement push.
During the crackdown, authorities identified four individuals with direct connections to organised criminal groups. Meanwhile, efforts to track down fugitives proved fruitful, with 229 wanted persons and 121 individuals with outstanding warrants taken into custody.
Traffic enforcement also formed part of the operation, with 142 motorists arrested for driving under the influence and 77 others booked for dangerous driving. In total, legal proceedings have been initiated against 4,486 individuals for a range of traffic violations.
Police officials have indicated that similar large-scale operations will continue in the coming weeks as part of a sustained campaign to restore public safety and curb the spread of narcotics.
Amber Alert Issued as Severe Lightning Threat Looms Across Several Provinces
April 05, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Meteorology has sounded an amber-level warning over the likelihood of intense lightning activity affecting multiple parts of the country later today (05).
The advisory, released around midday on 5 April, is set to remain in force until 11.00 p.m., covering the Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, Southern and North Central provinces, along with the Ampara District.
Forecasters indicate that thundery showers are expected to develop after 2.00 p.m., with some areas likely to experience frequent and potentially dangerous lightning strikes. These conditions may be accompanied by short bursts of gusty winds, raising the risk of minor structural damage and falling debris.
Residents in the affected regions are being urged to remain vigilant, particularly during the late afternoon and evening hours when storm activity is expected to intensify. Authorities have also advised the public to avoid open spaces, unplug electrical appliances where possible, and seek proper shelter during periods of heightened lightning activity.
Officials note that while such weather patterns are not unusual for this time of year, the intensity of the anticipated storms warrants extra caution.
Sun Positioned Directly Above Sri Lanka in Rare Seasonal Phenomenon
By: Puli
April 05, LNW (Colombo): The Meteorological Department of Sri Lanka has announced that the sun will be directly overhead across various parts of the country from April 5 to April 15, due to its apparent northward movement.
According to the department, several locations will experience the overhead sun phenomenon today (April 5). Areas closest to where the sun will be directly above include Dodanduwa, Rathgama, Yakkalamulla, Akuressa, Mulgirigala, Ranna, Kalamatiya, and Ussangoda. The event is expected to occur at approximately 12:13 p.m.
This natural occurrence happens when the sun crosses directly over a specific latitude, causing objects to cast little to no shadow at midday. It is a seasonal phenomenon typically observed in countries located near the equator, including Sri Lanka.
The department further noted that different parts of the island will experience the overhead sun on different dates during the April 5–15 period, as the sun continues its apparent movement northward.
Authorities advise the public to take precautions during midday hours, as temperatures can feel significantly higher when the sun is directly overhead. Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight are recommended during this period.
A Day of Renewal: Easter Sunday Brings Hope and Happiness
By: Puli
April 05, LNW (Colombo): Today marks Easter Sunday, one of the most joyful and meaningful days in the Christian calendar. Across the world, millions of people are coming together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ – a powerful symbol of hope, renewal, and victory over darkness.
From early morning church services filled with hymns and prayer to homes buzzing with laughter and togetherness, Easter brings a unique sense of warmth and unity. The day is not only about religious devotion but also about reconnecting with family, sharing meals, and embracing the spirit of love and forgiveness.
Colorful Easter eggs, blooming flowers, and bright decorations reflect the essence of the season – new life and fresh beginnings. Just as spring brings renewal to nature, Easter inspires people to start anew, leaving behind past struggles and looking forward with faith and positivity.
In a fast-paced world, Easter Sunday offers a moment to pause and reflect. It reminds us that no matter the challenges we face, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. Today is more than a celebration-it is a message to believe, to heal, and to rise again.
Fuel Station Owners Plan Silent Protest Outside CPC Over Unresolved Issues
April 05, LNW(Colombo): The Petroleum Distributors Association (PDA) has announced that fuel station owners across the country will hold a silent protest outside the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) tomorrow (06) at 9:30 a.m., in response to several unresolved concerns affecting their operations.
Executive Committee Member D.V. Shantha Silva stated that one of the main issues prompting the protest is the difficulties faced by fuel station employees under the current odd-even fuel distribution system. He explained that this arrangement has created considerable inconvenience for workers in the sector.
Silva further noted that, under the existing fuel pricing structure, the CPC and other related corporations receive a 6% operating profit. In contrast, fuel stations were previously allocated a 3% dividend, which he claims has now been removed by the CPC’s new administration.
He also pointed out that fuel stations are experiencing operational challenges due to delays and inconsistencies in the scheduled delivery of petrol and diesel. These disruptions, he said, are affecting the efficiency of fuel distribution across the country.
The association warned that if these issues remain unresolved, they could significantly impact the sustainability and smooth functioning of fuel station operations nationwide.
Tehran Reports Downing of US C-130 Amid Rising Conflict
April 05, LNW(Colombo): Iran has claimed that it shot down a US C-130 support aircraft over the southern region of Isfahan on Sunday, according to reports from the semi-official Tasnim News Agency.
Iranian authorities stated that the aircraft was brought down by heavy fire from a police special forces unit. However, there has been no official confirmation from the United States regarding the incident.
Unverified reports circulating on social media suggested the aircraft may have been involved in a rescue operation for a crew member of a downed F-15 fighter jet, and that US forces may have destroyed their own plane to prevent it from falling into Iranian hands. These claims remain unconfirmed.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region, following a joint military offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February. Iran has since responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and other countries hosting US military assets, while also tightening control over maritime movement in the Strait of Hormuz.
Digital Services VAT in Sri Lanka Deferred Again Until July
April 05, LNW(Colombo): The Sri Lankan government has once again postponed the implementation of an 18% Value Added Tax (VAT) on digital services provided by non-resident companies via online platforms, pushing the effective date to July 1.
According to a circular issued by the Inland Revenue Department, the delay will remain in place until the necessary amendments to the VAT Act are formally enacted.
The tax, which applies to selected digital services, was originally scheduled to come into effect on October 1 last year under the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act, as per Extraordinary Gazette No. 2443/30. It was later deferred to April 1 through a subsequent gazette notification.
With this latest decision, the rollout has been postponed for a second time, extending the timeline for implementation.