August 17, Colombo (LNW): A more comprehensive and intelligence-driven strategy is now being deployed to tackle organised criminal activity across the country, according to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya.
Speaking to the media during a visit to Kandy—following formal meetings with the senior Buddhist clergy of the Asgiri and Malwathu chapters—the IGP outlined a renewed national plan designed to confront the growing menace of underworld gangs, contract killings, and illicit narcotics operations.
He emphasised that this new approach marks a clear shift away from previously used methods, describing the current plan as more methodical, data-led, and collaborative in nature. According to the police chief, close coordination is now underway with the armed forces and other government agencies, whilst ordinary citizens are being encouraged to come forward with information that could assist investigations.
IGP Weerasooriya acknowledged the complexity of the problem, noting that some of these criminal networks have, over time, been shielded by political interference and aided by the complicity of a few within the police and military ranks.
However, he was quick to point out that, at present, law enforcement efforts are proceeding without obstruction from political quarters, and that the government has offered its full backing to the crackdown.
“Violent crime and the drug trade did not emerge overnight,” he said, addressing reporters. “These operations have often been propped up by individuals in positions of influence, and in some cases, the very systems meant to stop them have been exploited. But we now have a clear framework in place and are acting decisively.”
He further revealed that many of the most serious crimes, including recent shootings, have links to individuals residing overseas. International cooperation has therefore become a central pillar of the strategy, with Sri Lankan authorities now working with foreign counterparts to monitor, trace, and apprehend suspects beyond national borders.
The IGP added that several suspects linked to recent violent incidents have already been apprehended, and that the ongoing campaign will involve heightened surveillance, rapid-response measures, and enhanced border monitoring to disrupt the flow of drugs and weapons into the country.
New Police Chief outlines new tactics to dismantle organised crime networks
Sri Lanka sees continued growth in tourist arrivals as August figures top 99,000
August 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka continues to witness a steady rise in international tourist arrivals, with nearly 100,000 visitors entering the country during the first half of August alone.
Fresh figures from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) reveal that 99,406 travellers touched down in the country so far this month, reflecting growing momentum in the island’s tourism revival.
India remains the leading source market, contributing 19,572 visitors—representing just under 20 per cent of August’s total arrivals. The United Kingdom followed closely with 10,970 visitors, while notable numbers also came from Italy (7,641), France (6,870), and China (6,762).
Industry observers note that European travel to Sri Lanka remains resilient, with the island maintaining its appeal as a winter escape and cultural destination.
Cumulatively, arrivals for the year 2025 have now reached 1,467,694, signalling strong performance despite global economic uncertainties and regional travel fluctuations. Indian travellers continue to dominate the charts with 268,694 arrivals recorded so far this year, followed by 142,347 from the UK and 117,322 from Russia—a country that has emerged as a key market in recent years due to improved air connectivity and targeted promotional campaigns.
Tourism officials are optimistic that the current pace could push annual figures past the anticipated targets, especially with upcoming seasonal events, religious festivals, and the continued rollout of destination marketing efforts.
There is also renewed interest from East Asian markets, which saw a temporary lull in previous years due to travel restrictions and geopolitical concerns.
Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities are now focusing on enhancing visitor experiences, expanding accommodation options, and improving infrastructure in less-explored regions to ensure the country maintains its upward trajectory as a competitive travel destination.
Sri Lanka Customs Rolls Out Web-Based Notification System
By: Staff Writer
August 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Customs has officially launched its new web-based Customs Document Notification System (CDNS), a digital platform aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in cargo clearance. The CDNS allows consignees and declarants to monitor the real-time status of customs declarations and cargo movements, providing vital visibility and timely feedback for improved compliance, the agency said in a statement.
This digital leap marks the conclusion of Phase 1 of the Automated Risk Management System Project, which signals a major modernization milestone for customs operations. The software, developed by Creative Web Technologies through a competitive bid among eight local firms, reflects the agency’s ambition to streamline trade facilitation and bolster stakeholder trust.
The CDNS addresses long-standing criticisms of Sri Lanka’s manual customs processes, which have been plagued by inefficiencies, paperwork delays, opaque procedures, and opportunities for corruption. Reports from the World Bank and local trade associations have emphasized the need for a digitized, accountable system to reduce transaction costs, combat undervaluation and tax evasion, and encourage foreign investment.
The system launch comes amid robust financial results in the first half of 2025. Customs has collected over Rs. 1 trillion in revenue by June, marking nearly half of its Rs. 2.115 trillion annual target—of which vehicle imports alone contributed approximately Rs. 165 billion through mid-June. Overall collections indicate a strong start to the year, with customs on track to exceed government revenue expectations
However, the department’s performance has not been free of controversy. Media scrutiny intensified following reports that over 300 containers were released without physical inspection. Sri Lanka Customs clarified that in January 2025, under acute port congestion, a new Screening Unit was deployed to expedite low-risk cargo. Based on risk criteria, roughly 60% of containers were released document-based only. An estimated 1,500 to 3,000 containers arrive daily, while inspection facilities can handle only a fraction. Thus, the selected “auto-release” policy was part of a broader congestion-relief effort aligned with international customs norms
At a press briefing, Additional Director General Seevali Arukgoda reassured the public that the 323 containers in question held only declared industrial raw materials—plastics, textiles, chemicals, cement, pesticides, machine parts, fertilizers, and wood—from countries including India and China. No arms, narcotics, or undeclared valuables were involved, he affirmed. A post-clearance audit and investigation by a Ministry of Finance panel and the CID are ongoing to ensure full transparency
Overall, the CDNS represents a progressive shift in Sri Lanka Customs’ digitization journey. Coupled with solid revenue inflows, it underscores the department’s modernization drive. Yet, the container-clearance controversy underscores the delicate balance between operational efficiency and public accountability—a challenge that underscores the ongoing need for oversight and reform.
Plans underway for overhaul of public transport system with focus on safety and technology
August 17, Colombo (LNW): A comprehensive initiative aimed at transforming the nation’s public transport system is on the horizon, with the Ministry of Transport preparing to roll out a unified strategy to modernise and streamline services across the board.
The move, spearheaded by Minister Bimal Rathnayake, seeks to create a more reliable, secure, and technologically advanced transport network for the public. Speaking during a high-level review meeting attended by senior officials from various state-run transport services, the Minister underscored the need for a coordinated institutional approach.
He emphasised that the time had come to shift from fragmented management to a cohesive system capable of delivering consistent service across all modes of public transport.
Central to the proposed reforms is the integration of cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence and GPS tracking, which will play a vital role in service monitoring and route optimisation. The digitalisation of ticketing systems and payment methods also featured prominently in the discussions, with an eye on introducing contactless transactions and mobile-based platforms to ease commuter experience.
A key component of the plan involves the establishment of regional bus companies to enhance accountability and improve operational efficiency. Alongside this, the Ministry aims to improve the procurement process for new vehicles, ensuring that buses introduced to the fleet meet modern standards of safety, comfort, and environmental sustainability.
Another priority area under consideration is the creation of a rapid response mechanism to address public grievances. Officials indicated that a centralised complaints platform, accessible through digital channels, could be developed to improve communication between passengers and service providers.
The overarching vision aligns closely with the government’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to modernise state services and improve citizen access through technology-driven solutions. A defined timeline for these reforms is expected to be announced soon, with implementation to proceed in phases.
Transport authorities are now tasked with drafting the framework for this new mechanism, and further consultations are expected to refine the operational details in the coming weeks.
Nationwide postal disruption looms as workers begin strike action
August 17, Colombo (LNW): Postal services across the country are expected to face significant disruption as employees prepare to commence an island-wide strike starting at midnight (18).
The industrial action, spearheaded by the Joint Postal Trade Union Front (JPTU), marks a sharp escalation in an ongoing dispute between workers and postal authorities.
As part of the lead-up to the nationwide walkout, staff at the Central Mail Exchange initiated their protest earlier this afternoon, ceasing operations from 4 p.m. onwards.
At the centre of the dispute are a series of long-standing grievances—19 in total—raised by union representatives. Chief amongst them are concerns over inadequate overtime compensation and the controversial implementation of fingerprint scanning systems used for recording staff attendance.
Workers argue that the new measures are intrusive and have been introduced without proper consultation.
In a show of coordinated resistance, postal employees have also withdrawn from all overtime duties since yesterday morning, further slowing down mail processing and delivery across the country.
Energy Minister first in NPP govt to face legal action over alleged financial misconduct linked to past role
August 17, Colombo (LNW): Legal proceedings are reportedly set to be initiated against Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody in connection with alleged financial irregularities dating back to his time at the Fertiliser Corporation in 2015, a report by Sunday Times disclosed.
The Commission tasked with probing bribery and corruption is preparing to bring the matter before the High Court, sources familiar with the development have disclosed.
At the heart of the case is a sum amounting to Rs. 8 million, which is believed to have been misappropriated during Mr Jayakody’s tenure. He had then chaired the tender committee responsible for awarding a procurement contract that subsequently became the focus of official scrutiny.
Two other individuals are also expected to be named in the case, suggesting a broader web of accountability within the institution at the time.
Whilst the identities of the additional suspects have yet to be formally confirmed, investigators are said to be in possession of documentation and testimonies that point to coordinated wrongdoing.
US Envoy urges Sri Lanka to remove trade hurdles and embrace economic reform
August 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has a valuable opportunity to strengthen its position in global trade by streamlining regulatory processes and removing unnecessary trade barriers, according to US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung.
During a recent meeting with senior representatives of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, the Ambassador encouraged Sri Lanka to take decisive steps toward fostering a more business-friendly environment. She emphasised the importance of reducing non-tariff barriers, promoting greater openness, and enhancing overall competitiveness to attract higher levels of trade and investment.
Ambassador Chung described the present moment as a critical window for Sri Lanka to reposition itself in the evolving global economy. She pointed out that with many international firms reassessing their supply chains and regional strategies, Sri Lanka could emerge as a compelling destination for investment—provided that the right policy measures are put in place.
Her comments were made during discussions with Chamber Chairman Krishan Balendra, Vice Chairman Bingumal Thewarathanthri, Deputy Vice Chairman Vinod Hirdaramani, Secretary General and CEO Buwanekabahu Perera, and other private sector leaders. The talks focused on enhancing trade relations between the United States and Sri Lanka, expanding bilateral investment opportunities, and exploring areas for long-term economic collaboration.
Congratulating Mr. Balendra on his recent appointment as Chairman, Ambassador Chung reiterated the US Embassy’s commitment to working closely with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, which she acknowledged as the country’s most prominent private sector body. She also expressed appreciation for the Sri Lankan Government’s constructive approach to ongoing trade discussions, describing recent negotiations as fair, reciprocal, and grounded in mutual respect.
The meeting also touched on Sri Lanka’s strategic location within the Indian Ocean and its untapped potential as a regional trade hub. With global businesses increasingly turning their attention to South Asia, Ambassador Chung noted that Sri Lanka is well-positioned to benefit from shifting investment trends—particularly if the government continues to pursue meaningful economic reforms and regulatory modernisation.
Wave of disciplinary action sees ten judges interdicted amidst broader judicial scrutiny
August 17, Colombo (LNW): The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has suspended yet another District Court judge over allegations of misconduct, raising the number of judicial officers interdicted within the current month to ten — an unusually high figure that signals a significant disciplinary sweep within the judiciary.
In a separate development, a Civil Appellate High Court judge stationed in Gampaha has been instructed to proceed with retirement, following an internal investigation into what has been described as sustained underperformance.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that formal retirement documentation has already been issued by the JSC, effectively concluding the judge’s judicial tenure.
The JSC has also intensified its focus on judicial conduct in Minuwangoda, where both the sitting District Judge and the Additional District Judge have been called before the Judges’ Institute.
The summons relates to ongoing inquiries into alleged breaches of professional standards, though officials have yet to disclose the precise nature of the accusations.
These developments come amid growing calls for increased accountability and transparency within the judicial system.
Government to repay only refundable portion of Adani’s Mannar Wind Project deposits
August 17, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government has confirmed it will only return the refundable portion of the financial deposits submitted by the Adani Group for the proposed Mannar Wind Power project, according to Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody.
Speaking at a briefing held at the Government Information Department two days ago (15), Minister Jayakody clarified the state’s position following speculation around potential compensation claims by the Indian conglomerate.
He noted that whilst deposits had indeed been placed by Adani with the Sustainable Energy Authority in relation to the renewable energy initiative, only those deemed refundable under existing guidelines would be repaid.
In response to a query regarding whether the Adani Group had requested reimbursement for broader preliminary expenses or initial investments, the Minister firmly stated that the government’s obligation extended solely to refundable sums.
He further explained that major infrastructure projects typically involve both refundable and non-refundable financial commitments — a standard practice within the energy sector and public-private project frameworks.
The Sustainable Energy Authority, which has overseen administrative aspects of the project to date, has been instructed to carry out a detailed review to assess and confirm the specific amounts that qualify for reimbursement. The aim is to ensure transparency and adherence to legal and procedural norms in managing project finances.
The Mannar Wind Power project had previously drawn public and political attention, both due to its scale and the strategic involvement of a foreign entity.
Sri Lanka Customs hits record revenue milestone amid launch of new trade facilitation system
August 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Customs has reported its most substantial monthly revenue collection on record, bringing in an impressive Rs. 235 billion last month — a landmark achievement for the institution and a notable reflection of the country’s evolving trade and fiscal landscape.
This historic revenue milestone was revealed by the Director General of Customs, Sunil Nonis, during the official unveiling of the Customs Document Notification System (CDNS) on the 15th of this month.
The new system has been developed to streamline communications with importers and exporters, offering automated alerts and improved tracking for documentation, with the aim of reducing bottlenecks and enhancing operational transparency.
Addressing the gathering, Nonis underscored the significance of the revenue achievement, noting the remarkable progress made in just over a year. “We once marked Rs. 100 billion in monthly collections as a major breakthrough. To now surpass Rs. 235 billion in a single month is an extraordinary leap forward,” he remarked.
Officials attribute this surge in revenue to a combination of factors, including strengthened enforcement measures, the adoption of technology to minimise leakages, and a rise in international trade activity following macroeconomic stabilisation.
The Customs Department has been focusing on modernising its processes and increasing efficiency, while also tightening its grip on illicit trade and under-invoicing — efforts that appear to be yielding tangible financial results.