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.
16 former Cabinet ministers under investigation over alleged corruption: Reports
Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption authorities are investigating 16 former Cabinet ministers over allegations of abuse of power and financial irregularities, according to local media reports. Swarnavahini News reported that the Police Assets Investigation Division has handed over investigation files relating to the assets of nearly 20 politicians, including former ministers and MPs, to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala was quoted as saying that all information uncovered during the police investigations had been forwarded to the Bribery Commission.
20 new drug addicts every day in Sri Lanka, warns former SDIG Ajith Rohana
Former Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG) Ajith Rohana has warned that approximately 20 people are becoming addicted to drugs every day in Sri Lanka, according to unofficial estimates. Speaking at an event, the retired senior police officer said drug addiction had become a serious national concern, with the problem now extending into the country’s school system. He claimed that nearly 200,000 people in Sri Lanka were addicted to drugs, according to official and unofficial information. “According to unofficial reports, around 20 new people are becoming addicted to drugs every day. Just imagine how many that would be over a year,” he said. Rohana said a person addicted to drugs could require approximately Rs. 6,000 daily to purchase two doses, placing a significant financial burden on individuals and families. He also warned that some individuals struggling with addiction may turn to theft and other criminal activities to obtain money for drugs.
Islandwide operation launched to protect elephants and reduce human-elephant conflict
The Ministry of Environment has launched an islandwide operation named ‘Hasthi Sena’ to protect elephants from life-threatening dangers and minimise human-elephant conflict. According to the Ministry, the operation was launched today (02) in Galkiriyagama, in the North Western Wildlife Zone, with an initial focus on 17 elephants identified as being at risk. The programme is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Environment, the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Tri-Forces. Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Environment said the operation is expected to cover approximately 80 percent of areas inhabited by elephants, while the remaining 20 percent will be addressed through a separate programme. The initiative includes continuous raids and legal action against the use of illegal firearms, hakka patas (explosive bait), unauthorised electric fences and snares that pose threats to elephants. According to the Ministry, 60 military personnel participated in the initial operation, alongside 10 operational teams organised under six groups.
Public rushes to obtain TIN as new rules take effect across Sri Lanka
Long queues have been reported at Inland Revenue Department (IRD) offices across Sri Lanka as members of the public rush to obtain Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN) following the introduction of new mandatory requirements. Meanwhile, several members of the public have complained of difficulties accessing the department’s online registration system, with reports of the website becoming unresponsive and experiencing disruptions amid increased demand. The surge in applications comes after the government made TIN certificates mandatory for eight types of financial, commercial and administrative transactions from November 1, 2026.
PM Harini arrives in Antigua and Barbuda for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya arrived in Antigua and Barbuda today (02) to participate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. According to the Prime Minister, she arrived at the V. C. Bird International Airport in Antigua, where she was received by Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Michael Joseph. The Prime Minister departed Sri Lanka on October 31 from the Bandaranaike International Airport to attend the Commonwealth summit, scheduled to be held in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.
