FindAllNews — Sri Lanka News

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

The Colombo Stock Exchange rose for a sixth consecutive session on 10 November 2026, with the All Share Price Index gaining 592.02 points, or 2.75%, to close at 22,123.39. This marked the first time the index surpassed 22,000 points since 6 July 2026. The S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index also gained 224.97 points, or 3.66%, to end at 6,368.12. Hiru News reported total market turnover at Rs. 7.9 billion, while the Daily Mirror reported LKR 7.96 billion. The banking sector led activity, and Dialog Axiata posted the highest individual turnover at LKR 1.42 billion. Foreign investors recorded a net outflow of approximately LKR 1.20 billion, though overall market breadth remained positive with 206 advancing stocks against 45 decliners.

Sri Lanka reaches 114 for 3 after Pakistan declares on 434 in Rawalpindi

November 10·8 sources

Sri Lanka reached 114 for three at stumps on the second day of the first Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, trailing by 320 runs. Pakistan declared their first innings at 434 for nine after being sent in to bat. Saud Shakeel top-scored with 93 runs, while Tayyab Arif made 57 and Arafat Minhas scored 52. Mohammad Taha scored 51 runs according to most reports, though Virakesari recorded 57. Sri Lanka's Asitha Fernando took three wickets for 107 runs, and Dilshan Madushanka claimed three for 108. In reply, Sri Lanka lost two early wickets before Lahiru Udara made 42. Kamindu Mendis remained unbeaten on 40 alongside Dhananjaya de Silva on 22, while debutant Saqib Khan took two wickets for 54 runs.

Sportsසිංහලதமிழ்

Court of Appeal delivers divided judgment on Hirunika Premachandra’s appeal against conviction

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

A two-judge bench of the Court of Appeal delivered a divided judgment on 10 November 2026 on an appeal by former Parliamentarian Hirunika Premachandra against her conviction and three-year prison sentence. Justices P. Kumaran Ratnam and Pradeep Hettiarachchi referred the matter to the President of the Court of Appeal for appropriate action, ordering the petition to be called on 11 November 2026. Premachandra, who appeared in court while on bail, was convicted by the Colombo High Court on 18 counts over the December 2015 abduction and assault of shop worker Amila Priyankara in Dematagoda.

Former Water Board Chairman Nishantha Ranatunga arrested and granted bail on corruption charges

November 10·15 sources

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption arrested former National Water Supply and Drainage Board Chairman Nishantha Ranatunga on 10 November 2026 over corruption charges. Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama granted Ranatunga bail on two sureties of Rs. 1 million each and banned foreign travel. Hiru News and News 1st reported that the court also required Rs. 75,000 in cash bail. The Magistrate fixed the case to be called on 19 January. The Bribery Commission accused Ranatunga of using board and project funds to deploy security officers to his private residence and engage personal drivers. Hiru News reported a state loss exceeding Rs. 14 million, while News 1st cited losses of about Rs. 5.8 million for security and Rs. 9 million for drivers.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Cabinet approves MoU for 100 new Suwa Seriya ambulances funded by India

November 10·11 sources

The Cabinet of Ministers approved signing a Memorandum of Understanding with India to secure a financial grant to procure 100 fully equipped ambulances for the 1990 Suwa Seriya National Emergency Ambulance Service. Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa submitted the proposal following a request to India. He said the outright grant totals 1,725.7 million rupees and suppliers will be selected through competitive bidding. Officials sought the assistance because the existing fleet of 322 ambulances covers about nine million kilometres annually, resulting in wear and tear and frequent mechanical faults. Launched in 2016 with Indian aid and expanded nationwide in 2018, the free 24-hour service handles 1,000 to 1,200 patient transports daily. The Health Ministry will recruit personnel and handle maintenance.

HealthEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Central Bank bars EY partners from bank audits following Rs. 13.6 billion NDB fraud

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has barred the Ernst & Young partners who audited National Development Bank from conducting bank audits, following a Rs. 13.6 billion fraud. Director of Bank Supervision R. R. de Silva Jayatillake told the Committee on Public Finance that the bank was also required to reconstitute its Board audit committee. The fraud ran for three years before detection. The Central Bank clarified that Ernst & Young remains recognized to audit licensed banks, but the specific audit partner and quality assurance partner cannot be assigned bank audits. The regulator is monitoring the bank against a rectification timeline. Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Accounting and Auditing Standards Monitoring Board referred its inquiry into auditor conduct to the Attorney General on 15 October 2026.

Beruwala Urban Council members defeat budget by one vote on 10 November

November 10·4 sources

The Beruwala Urban Council's budget was defeated by eight votes to seven, with one abstention, on 10 November 2026. Council Chairman Mohamed Mabazim presided over the meeting, which Aruna and Ada Derana reported covered the 2027 budget. Media coverage was barred during the voting. Mabazim explained to journalists afterward that coverage was prohibited because a private matter had to be discussed during the process. Reports differed regarding council factions. Aruna and Ada Derana stated two Samagi Jana Balawegaya members voted against the budget and one abstained, after their six members initially helped the three-member National People's Power take control. In contrast, Hiru News reported the ruling coalition involved six United People's Freedom Alliance members, with one voting against and one abstaining. Hiru News also counted eight opposition independent seats, whereas Aruna and Ada Derana reported seven.

Politicsසිංහල

Couple dies from electrocution while switching off street light in Wariyapola

November 10·4 sources

A couple died after being electrocuted while switching off a street light in Karandawetiya, Aulegama, in Wariyapola on the morning of 10 November. The deceased were identified as E.M. Karunawathi, 60, and her husband S.M. Devasiri. Lankadeepa, Hiru News, and Divaina reported his age as 61, while Ada Derana stated he was 57. Accounts differed on how the incident unfolded. Hiru News and Divaina reported that the husband was shocked first and his wife died attempting to rescue him. Ada Derana reported the wife was shocked first, followed by her husband, while their daughter survived an electric shock. Hiru News and Divaina reported that both victims died after being admitted to Nikaweratiya Hospital. Residents and relatives accused the Ceylon Electricity Board over a wire left wrapped around the pole. Wariyapola Police are investigating.

Otherසිංහල

Supreme Court concludes review of Organized Crime Prevention Bill as state pledges amendments

November 10·4 sources

On 9 November 2026, a three-judge Supreme Court bench concluded oral hearings on petitions challenging the government's Organized Crime Prevention Bill. The bench comprised Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena—named Priyasad by Divaina—Achala Wengappuli, and Sampath Abeykoon. The court announced that its confidential determination will be sent to the President and the Speaker of Parliament. Petitioners were directed to file written submissions regarding proposed amendments before 11 November. Appearing for the Attorney General, Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne announced that the government will present committee-stage amendments. These include reducing the suspect detention period from 72 to 48 hours and withdrawing provisions concerning tattoos and markings. The state also agreed to remove clauses requiring court permission to publish information on serious crime cases, all Excise Ordinance offenses, and copyright-related intellectual property offenses.

Crime & Courtsසිංහලதமிழ்

Prison authorities suspend physical court appearances for Colombo inmates following measles outbreak

November 10·6 sources

On 9 November, Sri Lankan prison authorities suspended physical court appearances for detainees from Welikada, Magazine, and Colombo Remand prisons after four inmates contracted measles. Inmates instead attended proceedings virtually via video links. Prisons Department spokesman Senaka Pallethenna confirmed courts were notified in writing, leaving Colombo court cells empty. Authorities also barred outside visitors from affected facilities and sent blood samples from 20 individuals to the Medical Research Institute for testing. Around 900 people were vaccinated, which Divaina stated included officers and inmates, while News 1st and Daily News specified inmates. Divaina also reported infections across all three prisons, whereas News 1st and Daily News cited two.

HealthEnglishසිංහල

Conch shell blower remanded after assaulting police at Anuradhapura sacred area protest

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහල

A 42-year-old conch shell blower, Baladura Rangirilalage Prasad Susantha of Ratnapura, was remanded until November 16 after allegedly assaulting two police officers during an Anuradhapura satyagraha. A medical test confirmed he had consumed heroin and cannabis. Sub-Inspector P.W.N. Withana, 48, and Police Constable Seneviratne, 23, were hospitalised with injuries. Daily News and Dinamina reported the suspect attacked officers attempting to arrest another supporter, while Divaina stated the suspect had argued with an outsider himself. Police are searching for another suspect. Organised by Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thera to oppose the proposed Anuradhapura Sacred Area Plan, the protest continued on November 9 for a third day despite a court order to clear the site.

Dr. B. A. Ratnapala files petition to produce Ven. Gnanasara Thera in robes

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහල

Dr. B. A. Ratnapala has filed a fundamental rights petition in the Supreme Court to direct prison authorities to produce imprisoned Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Ven. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera in court dressed in monastic robes. Filed through Attorney-at-Law Darshana Weraduwage, the petition requests an interim order preventing authorities from presenting him to the public or media handcuffed, or in civilian or prison clothing, until a final determination is made. It also seeks to prohibit photographing, recording, or distributing his image beyond limits permitted under Section 156(2) of Prison Rules. The Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, Attorney General, and prison officials were named as respondents. Separately, Kotte Chapter Chief Prelate Ven. Dr Ittepane Dhammalankara Thera requested prison authorities arrange a date and facilities for a 10-monk delegation to re-robe Gnanasara Thera according to Buddhist teachings and monastic discipline.

Around four million Sri Lankans over 18 have not registered for TINs, IRD says

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

Around four million Sri Lankans aged 18 and above have yet to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), Inland Revenue Department Commissioner Nandana Kumara said on 9 November. Speaking on Ada Derana’s BIG FOCUS programme, Kumara stated that approximately 13 million individuals have registered so far, out of an adult population of about 17 million. He explained that while registration was previously required only for specific matters, the law now mandates a TIN for everyone aged 18 and above to streamline and formalise the tax system. Kumara also addressed public concerns, stating that there is unnecessary fear regarding the requirement, as registering with the department does not mean that every individual must pay taxes.

Sharmila Rajapaksa calls for investigation into unauthorized bikini modeling in national parks

Environment & Weatherසිංහල

Former Director General of the Department of National Zoological Gardens Sharmila Rajapaksa has called for an investigation into allegations that foreign models in bikinis are being used for unauthorized commercial photography in Lunugamvehera, Yala, and Kumana National Parks. In a Facebook post, Rajapaksa stated that a private company is promoting commercial photography packages using open safari jeeps. She questioned whether these activities violate national park regulations, commercial photography licensing, tourism rules, and immigration laws. Rajapaksa urged the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, and the police to investigate organizers, park officials, and jeep drivers. The allegations have not been independently confirmed, and authorities have not yet issued an official response.

Central Bank official reserve assets rose to USD 7,086 million in October 2026

According to Central Bank of Sri Lanka statistics, the country's official reserve assets increased by 3.2 percent, or USD 219 million, to reach USD 7,086 million by the end of October 2026. This marks a rise from the USD 6,867 million recorded at the end of September 2026, surpassing the USD 7 billion mark once again. Reserves previously crossed USD 7 billion in February 2026, reaching USD 7,284 million for the first time since August 2020, before declining to USD 7,026 million in March and USD 6,759 million in April 2026.

Central Bank forecasts inflation to drop below 5 percent from late 2027

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka expects inflation to remain below 5 percent from the second half of 2027, according to its latest forecasts. Inflation recently exceeded the Central Bank's 5 percent target, rising from 8.0 percent in September 2026 to 8.3 percent in October 2026. The bank noted that inflation, measured by the annual point-to-point change in the Colombo Consumer Price Index, has maintained an upward trend driven by rising fuel prices.

Meteorology department warns mariners as heavy rain triggers landslides across ten districts

Environment & Weatherසිංහල

Department of Meteorology Director Meril Mendis urged naval and fishing communities in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea to monitor bulletins. A disturbed condition could develop around 11 November, potentially intensifying into a depression by 15 November. Watch and risk landslide warnings were issued for ten districts: Badulla, Colombo, Galle, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Matara, Monaragala, Nuwara Eliya, and Ratnapura. In the 12 hours ending 6:00 a.m. on 9 November, Welioya in Mullaitivu recorded 142 mm of rain, while Ingiriya and Bulathsinhala in Kalutara received 120.4 mm and 111.6 mm, respectively. On 9 November, a landslide at Kudagama buried a three-wheeler without causing injuries, halting traffic on the Hatton–Nuwara Eliya main road. An overflowing Hatton Oya also inundated several houses in Hatton Rothas.

Arsonists set fire to activist Ajith Dharmapala's Kundasale house on 9 November

Unidentified individuals set fire to the Kundasale home of overseas-based social media activist and former police officer Ajith Dharmapala on 9 November. The rented house was occupied, but no residents were harmed. Divaina reports attackers poured petrol around 1:00 AM, damaging the living room and a bedroom. Dinamina states petrol was poured through a window, damaging a sofa and window panes, with neighbors alerting occupants around 3:00 AM. Police suspect the arson was motivated by Dharmapala's YouTube broadcasts criticizing various parties. Two days earlier, a helmeted motorcyclist reportedly visited the house inquiring about renting it and asking about the owner. Divaina reports Balagolla Police are reviewing local security footage, while Dinamina states the Inspector General of Police directed the Criminal Investigation Department to take over the inquiry.

Opposition politicians criticise government economic policies, citing 30% poverty and tax increases

Speaking at a press conference on 9 November, Professor G. L. Peiris of the People’s United Opposition stated that poverty has reached 30% and six million people lack one nutritious daily meal. Peiris blamed indirect taxes like the 18% Value Added Tax and unplanned 2025 vehicle imports for depleting foreign reserves, noting that no major foreign investment entered over two years. He added that only 28% of the budget was spent by September, and only 8% of 500 billion rupees allocated for Ditwa disaster relief had been distributed due to institutional inefficiency. Former Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne warned that 12 tax increases shrank the middle class from 72% to 57%, while losing GSP+ concessions placed apparel exports at severe risk.

Two bank officials re-remanded over alleged Rs. 190 billion illegal transfer

Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama on 9 November re-remanded two bank officials until 19 November over the alleged illegal transfer of Rs. 190 billion abroad under the guise of importing goods. The suspects, arrested by the Financial Crimes Investigation Unit, are Kushan Pushpa Kumara Devadasa of BOC Bank and an insurance company, and Ragunathan Pradeepan of DFCC Bank. Prison officials explained to the court why the suspects were not produced on 9 November. Two other suspects, including Jiffry Mohamed, were previously remanded until 12 November. Additionally, heads from four banks accused of aiding and abetting were previously arrested and released on bail.

Human Rights Commission summons seven wildlife officers over raid on former chief priest

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka has summoned seven wildlife officers, including the Anuradhapura Assistant Director of Wildlife, to appear before its Anuradhapura office on 16 November 2026. They were summoned over a complaint by B. Jayawardena, former Chief Priest of Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, alleging wildlife officers violated his fundamental rights during an armed search of his home on 18 November 2025. Officers seized sambar, monitor lizard, wild boar, and turtle meat, alongside 14 turtle eggs, six star tortoises, an elephant tusk bracelet, and cash from a safe. Jayawardena claimed the meat was kept for a religious offering and the seized cash was personal savings. He stated the raid brought disrepute to his position and temple lands.

Development Officers reported sick on 9 November, disrupting services at state institutions

Development Officers reported sick on 9 November 2026, disrupting public services across several state bodies, including ministries, departments, provincial councils, and land offices. Anuradha Seneviratne, General Secretary of the All Ceylon Development Officers' Union, stated the action demanded proper salaries and allowances, warning of more severe union action if demands are ignored. Seneviratne noted that around 150,000 Development Officers and 1,800 others serve in state and semi-government sectors, adding that a Rs. 300 allowance given to some cannot buy a liter of fuel. However, MP Chandana Sooriyarachchi, Secretary of the Development Officers' Service Union, claimed only about 80,000 officers are currently serving, calling the strike unfair while a salary commission and discussions are underway. Sooriyarachchi added that the government has already acted to grant a 60% salary increase and restore pensions lost in 2016, accusing opposition elements of inconveniencing the government.

Otherසිංහල

Wildlife officers deactivate trap gun targeting elephant Agbo in Mihintale, arrest suspect

Environment & Weatherසිංහල

Officers from the Thirappane Wildlife Office deactivated a trap gun targeting the elephant Agbo near Nochchikulama Wewa in Mihintale on 7 November. A tripwire connected to the weapon brushed against an inspecting officer near a corn cultivation, prompting the team to safely defuse it. On 8 November, officers re-inspected the site, discovered trap gun equipment inside a nearby chena hut, and arrested a suspect. Wildlife officers said the suspect admitted setting the gun five feet high to target elephants. He was scheduled to appear before the Anuradhapura Magistrate's Court on 9 November. The operation was led by Wildlife Ranger Assistant Buddhika Athukorala. It marked the second trap gun detected during patrols protecting Agbo in the Thirappane area.

Global crude oil prices decline following US Republican midterm election setback

Global crude oil prices have declined, with West Texas Intermediate crude falling 0.59% to US$ 90.59 per barrel compared to the previous trading session. Brent crude oil dropped 1.06% to US$ 97.31 per barrel. The decline was linked to market expectations that military conflicts with Iran would ease following setbacks suffered by US President Donald Trump's Republican Party in midterm elections.

Government arranges accommodation for relatives of those injured in Rambaewa accident

The government is arranging accommodation for relatives travelling from far away to visit those injured in a fatal accident in Rambaewa. Authorities have provided the telephone numbers 0714 352 016 and 0712 948 050 for this purpose.

Otherසිංහල

Humanoid robot withdraws from Antarctic marathon after battery fails in extreme cold

A humanoid robot named “Qestr” (Quester) withdrew from the Antarctic Ice Ultra marathon race after running 3 kilometers, handing victory to human competitors. The robot was forced to pull out because its battery became inactive in extreme cold at -24 degrees Celsius. Held on an ice surface, the historic race featured 24 human runners. The robot had been fitted with a special jacket to protect it from the severe cold.

Sportsසිංහල

Body of 51-year-old man found near Walhapitiya hotel alongside wild boar trap

Police discovered the body of a 51-year-old man near a hotel in Walhapitiya, within the Marawila Police Division, on the afternoon of 7 November. The deceased, a resident of Maligawatta in Mahawewa, operated a pork stall in Mattakotuwa and hunted wild boars for meat. Officers also recovered a wire trap used for hunting wild boars at the scene. Police are investigating whether he died while hunting wild boars, noting he frequently visited the vicinity of the hotel for that purpose. The Marawila Acting Magistrate conducted preliminary inquiries at the scene on the night of 7 November, and the body was sent to Marawila Base Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The exact cause of death is not yet known.

Inmate dies after being gored by deer at Weerawila Open Prison Camp

A 30-year-old inmate died after being gored by a deer at the Weerawila Open Prison Camp on 8 November, police said. The victim, K.G.M. Sajith Kumara of Warapalana, Mahara, entered an enclosure holding about seven deer around 4:00 PM. One of the deer gored him in the rib area of his abdomen. Kumara died after prison officials admitted him to Tissamaharama Debarawewa Base Hospital, where his body was placed for an inquiry scheduled for 9 November. Kumara had been sent to Mahara Prison on 19 June by the Gampaha Magistrate's Court on drug addiction charges, before being transferred to Weerawila via Welikada Prison. Weerawila Police are investigating.