News

US issues travel advisory ahead of Sri Lanka elections

Published

8 months ago

September 15, 2024

editor

The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Sri Lanka in light of the upcoming presidential election scheduled for September 21, 2024.

This advisory highlights the increased risk of civil unrest and terrorism in the country, urging U.S. citizens to exercise heightened caution.

The U.S. Department of State said: “As Sri Lanka approaches its presidential election, the possibility of demonstrations and protests is high. These events may occur before, during, or after the election day. Historical patterns show that such gatherings can quickly turn violent, with authorities previously resorting to water cannons and tear gas to manage crowds.”

The advisory notes a persistent threat of terrorism across various public spaces in Sri Lanka.

It added: “Past attacks have targeted tourist attractions, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, and more. These incidents are often unpredictable and can occur with little to no warning.”

The U.S. Department of State also provided recommendations for Travelers:

Avoid Gatherings: U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid all public demonstrations and gatherings. Even those that appear peaceful can escalate quickly and pose a significant risk.

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and follow guidance from local authorities.

Exercise Caution: Remain vigilant in public spaces and be cautious of your surroundings.

Why did the President’s backup helicopter make an emergency landing?

A backup helicopter accompanying President Ranil Wickremesinghe made an emergency landing in Eppawala yesterday.

The Sri Lanka Air Force stated that a technical defect was indicated on the helicopter’s lighting panel, prompting the precautionary landing in a paddy field.

The Sri Lanka Air Force also says that a replacement helicopter was sent for that.

President Wickremesinghe was proceeding to Kegalle after addressing an election meeting in Jaffna.

(News1st)

(This story, originally published by News1st has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

GoSL strongly rejects genocide claims & protests against monument in Canada

Published

8 hours ago

May 14, 2025

editor

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath today (May 14) met with the Canadian High Commissioner in Colomno to formally object to Canada’s approval and inauguration of a Tamil Genocide Monument in Brampton, Ontario.

Minister Herath had reiterated the Government of Sri Lanka’s strong objections regarding the unfounded genocide allegations and the approval of constructing such a monument, which complicates and undermines the government’s efforts toward reconciliation and national unity.The MFA statement issued in this regard is as follows :

Media Release Eng-3 Download

News

Harak Kata levels bribery allegations against Tiran & Deshabandu

Published

8 hours ago

May 14, 2025

editor

Notorious underworld figure – Nadun Chinthaka Wickremeratne, alias Harak Kata, has claimed that he is being detained in Tangalle over his refusal to pay a Rs. 300 million bribe allegedly demanded by former Public Security Minister – Tiran Alles and suspended IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon.
He levelled the allegations before reporters today (May 14) while he was being escorted by police from the Colombo Court Complex following a court hearing.

“There are so many things to say… I will reveal them then,” he had said before being taken back into custody.

News

Hayeshika granted bail (Update)

Published

8 hours ago

May 14, 2025

editor

Popular tuition teacher Hayeshika Fernando, widely known as ‘Teacher Amma,’ was granted bail by the Negombo Magistrate’s Court today (May 14) over allegedly assaulting a young man.

Her husband and the manager affiliated to her institute, who were previously arrested over the incident, have also been granted bail.

Hayeshika, who had been missing afterwards, had surrendered to the Negombo Magistrate’s Court today.

(Previous News on 14^th May, 2025 at 3:33pm)

Tutor Hayeshika surrenders to court

Popular tutor – Hayeshika Fernando, who had been evading arrest, has surrendered to the Negombo Magistrate’s Court.

President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne, appearing on behalf of the accused, informed the court that his client had voluntarily surrendered.

Hayeshika’s husband and the manager of the institution she is affiliated with were recently arrested over the alleged assault of a young man.

However, Hayeshika had remained at large until her court appearance today. Three police teams were also appointed to arrest her.

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