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.
Islandwide Crackdown Nets Hundreds as Anti-Drug Drive Intensifies
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.
Doctors’ Strike Continues for Second Day Across the Island
April 05, LNW(Colombo): The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has launched a nationwide token strike starting at 8:00 a.m. today (05), following a decision taken at its Executive Council meeting yesterday.
The 24-hour strike is set to continue until 8:00 a.m. on Monday, causing a complete disruption to routine and general medical services across the country. Patients seeking outpatient care and non-urgent treatments are expected to face significant inconvenience.
Despite the strike, the GMOA has assured that emergency medical services will continue without interruption, ensuring critical care remains available.
The association further stated that its Executive Council will closely monitor the situation and take additional decisions on a day-to-day basis, depending on how events unfold.
“The Rock” Reawakens? Trump Proposes $152M Plan to Revive Alcatraz Prison
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By: Puli
April 05, LNW (Colombo): US President Donald Trump has proposed allocating $152 million (£115 million) in the 2027 federal budget to bring the infamous Alcatraz Island back to life as a modern high-security prison.
The historic island, located near the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, once housed some of America’s most dangerous criminals before shutting down in 1963. Today, it operates as a popular tourist destination managed by the National Park Service.
According to the proposal, the requested funds would cover the initial phase of rebuilding Alcatraz into a state-of-the-art correctional facility. However, the plan has sparked skepticism among California politicians, who question both the long-term costs and the logistical challenges of operating a prison on the isolated island.
If approved, the project would mark a dramatic transformation for “The Rock,” shifting it from a historic landmark back into one of the nation’s most secure detention centers.
Afternoon Thunderstorms Expected Across Most Provinces Today
April 05, LNW (Colombo): Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, Uva, Eastern and Northcentral provinces after 2.00 p.m.
Fairly heavy falls about 50 mm are likely at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Polonnaruwa district.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and North-central provinces and in Jaffna and Kurunegala districts during the early hours of the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 05th to 15th of April in this year. The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (05th) are Dodanduwa, Rathgama, Yakkalamulla, Akuressa, Mulgirigala, Ranna, Kalamatiya and Ussangoda at about 12:13 noon.