Today’s News Digest: Your go-to summary of the key events and headlines that shaped the day. From major developments to breaking news, we bring you everything that happened today, all in one quick and easy read.
Rs. 14 Mn in bribes: Top cop arrested
The Bribery Commission says Acting Director of the Police Cultural Division, SSP Sathish Gamage, was arrested for allegedly taking Rs. 14 million in bribes while serving in Galle and Embilipitiya. He is accused of using another person’s name to open three bank accounts to launder money from organized criminals and others. He faces bribery and money laundering charges.
Over 80 shootings reported so far in 2025
Sri Lanka has recorded 82 shootings in 2025, resulting in 44 deaths and 48 injuries, police said. Of the incidents, 62 were linked to organized crime disputes and 20 to other causes.
Protest at Presidential Secretariat over Trinco lands
Protesters gathered outside the Presidential Secretariat opposing the allocation of 600 acres of paddy land in Trincomalee to Indian companies and the use of forest land for development projects. Activists Wasantha Mudalige and Lahiru Weerasekara confronted a senior police officer, demanding an immediate meeting with the President’s Secretary, citing unfulfilled promises and lack of action on the issue.
COPF approves Gambling Regulatory Authority Bill
The Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance has approved the Bill to establish Sri Lanka’s Gambling Regulatory Authority. Chaired by MP Rauf Hakeem in the absence of MP Harsha de Silva, the committee said the authority will regulate betting and gaming, reduce social harm, and support tourism and economic growth.
Colombo’s ageing Govt flats to be redeveloped next year
The National Housing Development Authority plans to redevelop 45 government apartment complexes in Colombo over 40 years old, totaling about 10,000 units, starting next year. The projects, to be carried out under a public-private partnership, will follow technical and valuation assessments, with a report on implementation due within a month. Officials also aim to complete 45,000 abandoned housing units from 2015–2019 within three years.