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.
11,131 children arrested since October 2025: Police Spokesman
11,131 children, including 233 girls, have been arrested since Oct. 30, 2025, Police Media Spokesperson ASP F. U. Wootler revealed this during a televised programme on Ada Derana. Authorities are also investigating suspected drug distribution near schools and tuition classes, including reports of narcotics being concealed in items such as ice cream, cotton candy and Sarawita.
Electricity bills to increase? PUCSL reveals new figures
The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has reduced the estimated electricity tariff increase for the fourth quarter of 2026 from 2.88% to 1.46% following a preliminary review of cost submissions by electricity sector institutions. According to a consultation document issued ahead of a public hearing scheduled for November 5 at the BMICH in Colombo, the initial proposal was based on a forecast revenue deficit of Rs. 4.4 billion for the October–December period. The total cost of electricity supply for the quarter is estimated at Rs. 157.3 billion, against projected revenue of Rs. 154 billion. However, the PUCSL said its preliminary assessment identified several costs requiring adjustments, including increased generation capacity costs and expenses linked to the use of substandard coal. The Commission has excluded certain additional costs submitted by Electricity Distribution Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., including Rs. 1.1 billion relating to loan repayments for an electricity supply improvement project.
TIN certificate not required to open bank accounts or renew vehicle revenue licenses: Finance Ministry
The Ministry of Finance has clarified that individuals can open new bank accounts and renew motor vehicle revenue licences even without a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) certificate, under special arrangements introduced to prevent delays in accessing these services. In a public notice issued jointly with the Inland Revenue Department and the Registrar of Motor Vehicles, the Ministry said individuals who already have a TIN but do not possess the certificate can provide their TIN number to the relevant institution. Those who have not yet obtained a TIN can also access these services by submitting their National Identity Card (NIC) number, name, address, telephone number and email address. The notice further clarified that the relevant institutions will make arrangements to issue a TIN number or facilitate its registration using the information provided by applicants.
Gotabaya Rajapaksa appears in court seeking removal of overseas travel ban
Former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa appeared before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (04), seeking the removal of an overseas travel ban imposed on him in connection with investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks. According to reports, the former President’s request relates to a case concerning an alleged conspiracy to carry out the Easter Sunday attacks.
Gnanasara Thera protest: Court orders arrests over alleged violations during Viharamahadevi Park protest
The Colombo Additional Magistrate’s Court has ordered the immediate arrest of individuals allegedly involved in violating regulations and obstructing public officials during a protest demanding the release of imprisoned Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera. Colombo Additional Magistrate Lahiru Silva issued the orders to the Cinnamon Gardens Police after considering two complaints filed in connection with the protest held at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo. The court ordered Police to arrest individuals who allegedly used loudspeakers without a valid permit during the protest, as well as those accused of obstructing Colombo Municipal Council officials and park authorities from carrying out their duties. The complaints were submitted by Cinnamon Gardens Police Officer-in-Charge, Chief Inspector Sagara Dayaratne.