February 15, Colombo (LNW): A new directive has been circulated requiring courts to submit detailed yearly reports on the destruction of narcotics and other hazardous substances carried out under judicial orders.

The circular, issued under the authority of Prasanna Alwis, Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission, instructs relevant judicial officers to forward comprehensive accounts of all such disposals to the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board no later than December 31 each year.

According to the new guidelines, courts must compile and formally transmit annual summaries covering the destruction of poisons, opium and all other categories classified as dangerous drugs. The reports are expected to include quantities destroyed, dates of disposal and confirmation that procedures were conducted in accordance with legal and safety standards.

Officials say the measure is intended to enhance transparency, strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure accurate national record-keeping relating to controlled substances seized through criminal proceedings. It is also seen as a move to reinforce public confidence in the judicial handling of narcotics-related cases.

Legal observers note that systematic documentation of court-ordered destruction will enable the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board to maintain an updated central database, support policy planning and assist in monitoring trends in drug-related offences.

Court registrars and administrative staff have reportedly been advised to ensure meticulous record maintenance throughout the year in order to comply fully with the new reporting requirement.

February 15, Colombo (LNW): In an extraordinary show of unity, the entire membership of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka assembled in Colombo today (15) to deliberate on a collective response to the recent killing of a fellow lawyer and his wife in Akuregoda.

The meeting, held at the Association’s headquarters in Hulftsdorp — the historic heart of the country’s legal district — drew an unusually large turnout of attorneys from across the island. Senior and junior members alike gathered to reflect on the implications of the double murder for the independence and security of the legal profession.

This marks the first occasion in fourteen years that the BASL has summoned its full membership for a single assembly in the capital. The previous instance occurred in 2012 amid the constitutional crisis triggered by the parliamentary impeachment of former Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake, a moment widely regarded as a watershed for judicial independence in Sri Lanka.

Today’s session is being chaired by BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya, who is expected to outline a series of proposals ranging from coordinated legal action to public advocacy initiatives aimed at reinforcing the safety of legal practitioners.

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By: Isuru Parakrama

February 15, Colombo (LNW): The legal professionals affiliated with the National People’s Power (NPP) have strongly denounced the fatal shooting of attorney-at-law Buddhika Mallawarachchi and his wife in Akuregoda, Thalangama, describing the attack as a grave assault on the rule of law.

In a sharply worded statement released following the killings on February 13, 2026, the group expressed profound sorrow over the loss of their colleague and condemned what they characterised as a climate of violence fuelled by entrenched criminal networks.

They alleged that elements within the underworld had, in previous years, been emboldened by political patronage and allowed to flourish unchecked.

The lawyers said the murder was not merely an attack on an individual practitioner and his spouse, but a chilling message aimed at all those who work to uphold justice and protect civil liberties. They argued that when members of the legal fraternity are targeted, the implications extend far beyond the courtroom, striking at the very foundation of democratic governance.

Calling for decisive action, the group stressed that the present administration carries a clear mandate to dismantle the culture of impunity that once enabled armed gangs to operate without fear of consequence. They warned that unchecked criminality poses a threat to a wide spectrum of society — from journalists and law enforcement officers to members of the judiciary and the Bar.

The statement further asserted that the State must not shirk its responsibility to ensure public safety. According to the lawyers, investigative bodies and preventive institutions must respond with greater urgency and coordination, demonstrating that justice will neither be delayed nor denied.

They urged the Government to reaffirm its commitment to safeguarding citizens’ rights and appealed to the police to expedite inquiries, identify all those responsible and ensure that prosecutions proceed without interference.

The killing has reignited debate within legal and civic circles about personal security, the resilience of institutions and the broader challenge of confronting organised crime in Sri Lanka.

Full Statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the death of our comrade Buddhika Mallawarachchi and his wife. This cruel and inhuman attack targets not only a lawyer and his spouse but also the citizens of this country at large.

The incident underscores that the current government, tasked with ending the era in which armed criminals could operate with impunity, must act with greater urgency. The threat posed by bloodthirsty criminals is not limited to any single profession, it could target journalists, police officers, judges, and now, as seen, lawyers.

The state cannot evade its responsibility. All components of the justice system, including preventive mechanisms and ongoing investigations, must operate faster than ever.

We urge the National People’s Power government to uphold its duty to ensure the safety and dignity of all citizens and call on the Sri Lanka Police to promptly complete the investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

February 15, Colombo (LNW): Police have uncovered a charred vehicle in the southern district of Galle which is believed to have been used in the fatal shooting of a lawyer and his wife earlier this week in Akuregoda, Thalangama.

Officers attached to the Nugegoda Divisional Crimes Investigation Bureau said the car was located along a narrow access road in the Kuttiyawatta area of Agaliya. By the time authorities reached the scene, the vehicle had already been set ablaze and was burning fiercely, suggesting an attempt to destroy crucial evidence.

Investigators had received a tip-off that the car connected to the killing of attorney-at-law Buddhika Mallawarachchi and his spouse had been abandoned in the area. Acting swiftly on the information, police cordoned off the surroundings while firefighters battled the flames. Forensic teams later sifted through the wreckage in search of material that could assist the inquiry.

The double homicide, which occurred in broad daylight in a residential neighbourhood, has sent shockwaves through the legal community and heightened concerns over organised criminal activity. Authorities now suspect the attack may have been orchestrated by an alleged underworld figure operating from overseas, identified as Jayalath Silva alias ‘Karandeniya Sudda.’

Sources indicate that the slain lawyer had previously represented Silva in court. More recently, however, he is understood to have appeared on behalf of a rival criminal leader known as Loku Pati. Detectives are exploring the possibility that the killings were motivated by suspicions that sensitive information had been passed between opposing factions.

Senior officers have neither confirmed arrests nor ruled out further suspects, but they maintain that several leads are being actively pursued. Security has also been tightened in parts of Colombo and its suburbs as a precautionary measure.

The Nugegoda Divisional Crimes Investigation Bureau continues to lead the probe, with assistance from forensic specialists and intelligence units. Police have appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed suspicious movements in the Agaliya area to come forward with information, assuring that all tips will be treated in strict confidence.

February 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have unveiled an extensive security and traffic operation ahead of this evening’s much-anticipated 2026 T20 World Cup encounter between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.

The match is set to begin at 7.00 p.m., with gates opening to spectators from 3.00 p.m.

Police officials confirmed that a coordinated plan has been activated to manage large crowds, ease congestion and safeguard public order around the stadium and adjoining neighbourhoods. Measures include carefully structured traffic diversions, clearly marked parking zones and reinforced security checks at all entry points.

A joint effort involving the Sri Lanka Police, the Police Special Task Force, the Tri-Forces and intelligence units will oversee operations throughout the day. Nearly 2,000 police officers, supported by around 600 traffic personnel, have been assigned to maintain order and regulate the expected influx of supporters from across the island and overseas.

With tickets for the fixture completely sold out, organisers have assured that all legitimate ticket holders will be accommodated in their allocated seats. Authorities have urged members of the public who were unable to secure tickets to follow the match from home via live television coverage, rather than gathering near the venue.

In a bid to ensure a family-friendly atmosphere, fans have been reminded to act responsibly and respect fellow spectators, regardless of national allegiance. Both local supporters and visiting fans are encouraged to enjoy the contest in a spirit of sportsmanship and goodwill.

Security screening will be rigorous. Attendees are prohibited from bringing plastic or glass bottles, large bags, helmets, jackets, alcoholic drinks, musical instruments or any sharp implements into the ground. The possession or operation of drones and unauthorised electronic devices is strictly banned. Officers have made clear that anyone found intoxicated, disruptive or behaving inappropriately will face immediate legal action.

Adequate drinking water points have been established inside the stadium to minimise inconvenience. Routine CCTV surveillance, physical inspections and vehicle searches will be conducted before and during the match as part of standard security protocol.

Vehicle access to certain routes surrounding the stadium will be tightly controlled. Entry via the Keththarama Mawatha junction and from Wilson Perera Mawatha towards Babapulle Place will be restricted to vehicles displaying special permits issued by cricket authorities. Several public parking areas have been designated, including the stadium car park, Sathosa grounds, Sebastian Ela, Grandpass Mati Park, Kovila Road, Apple Watta and both sides of Adi 100 Para.

Temporary traffic limitations will also apply along key roads in the vicinity, including Vinson Perera Mawatha, Grandpass Road, Babapulle Road, Sebastian Ela Road, sections near the Melwatte Bridge entrance, Temple Road junction, Maligawatte Lane and adjoining access routes.

Police have appealed for the full cooperation of the public to ensure that the high-profile fixture proceeds smoothly and safely, underscoring that these arrangements are intended to facilitate an enjoyable evening of cricket for all in attendance.

February 15, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called on Sri Lankans to dispel the “darkness of ignorance” and kindle the “light of wisdom” as the sacred festival of Maha Shivaratri is observed today by Hindus across the globe.

In his Maha Shivaratri message issued on February 15, 2026, the President noted that the holy festival, devoutly observed by Hindu communities worldwide, marks an auspicious occasion of worship and reverence to Lord Shiva.

He recalled that Maha Shivaratri commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the celestial Tandava dance performed by Lord Shiva, symbolising the triumph over ignorance in both the world and human life.

The President emphasised that religious and cultural observances of this nature play a vital role in building a disciplined and compassionate society that honours all human bonds. He observed that the sacred rites associated with Maha Shivaratri help dispel ego and awaken spiritual consciousness within hearts and minds, encouraging people to embrace the noble virtues of sincerity, generosity and forgiveness.

Describing the spiritual message of Maha Shivaratri as an opportunity to strengthen solidarity, President Dissanayake reflected on the challenges recently faced by the nation, including one of the most severe natural disasters in recent times. He stated that Sri Lanka is now moving forward with firm resolve and careful planning towards a new era of renewal, marked by political, economic and social transformation.

“As the lamps of Maha Shivaratri illuminate our hearts, I invite everyone to come together to further clarify and advance along the path we have chosen,” he said.

The President extended his warm felicitations for a meaningful celebration of Maha Shivaratri to Hindu devotees in Sri Lanka and around the world, expressing his wish that their noble aspirations be fulfilled.

Full Message:

With the hope that the darkness of ignorance be dispelled and the light of wisdom be kindled, the sacred festival of Maha Shivaratri, devoutly observed by Hindus around the world, falls today.

Maha Shivaratri is regarded as the auspicious occasion on which Hindu devotees offer worship and reverence to Lord Shiva. It commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the moment when Lord Shiva performs his celestial dance, the Tandava. Thereby, it symbolises the triumph over “darkness of ignorance” in the world and in human life.

I firmly believe that such religious and cultural observances are of great importance in building a disciplined and compassionate society that respects all human bonds. The sacred rites of Maha Shivaratri, which dispel ego and awaken spiritual consciousness within hearts and minds, invite us to live according to the noble virtues of sincerity, generosity and forgiveness.

Furthermore, I view the spiritual message of Maha Shivaratri as an opportunity to further strengthen solidarity among one another.

Having recently faced one of the most severe natural disasters in recent times, we are now advancing, with firm resolve and careful planning, towards a new era of renewal marked by political, economic and social transformation. As the lamps of Maha Shivaratri illuminate our hearts, I invite everyone to come together to further clarify and advance along the path we have chosen.?

I extend my warm felicitations for a meaningful celebration of Maha Shivaratri to the Hindu devotees in Sri Lanka and to Hindus around the world who observe this sacred day and I wish that their noble aspirations be fulfilled.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
15th February, 2026