AGP Executive Report

Women’s Cricket: England crushed Sri Lanka by 87 runs in the Women’s T20 World Cup opener at Edgbaston, powered by Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s 105* off 62 and Freya Kemp’s 4-21 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 132. UN Rights Watch: The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture will return to Sri Lanka from 15–24 June to assess reforms under OPCAT, including how recommendations are being implemented. Judiciary Independence: Commonwealth Lawyers Association warns that a proposed constitutional move to extend the retirement age of Court of Appeal and Supreme Court judges could undermine judicial independence and public confidence. Education Support: UGC says disabled university students will receive a Rs. 5,000 monthly allowance with arrears from January 2026. Public Health: Colombo declares a Special Dengue Prevention Week (15–21 June) as cases rise, with Colombo flagged high-risk. Transport & Safety: SriLankan Airlines Flight UL606 turned back to Colombo after a lightning strike; all passengers and crew were safe. Fisheries & Trade: Japan hands over refrigerated trucks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s fisheries cold chain, while ADB announces $4bn crisis financing for countries hit by the Middle East conflict, including Sri Lanka.

Airport Infrastructure: Sri Lanka will resume construction of the main second passenger terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport in November, with the project expected to finish within 30 months after a suspension in 2022. Environment & Trade Controls: The Environment Ministry and Customs discussed tighter rules to curb plastic imports and prevent clinical waste entering Sri Lanka, including plans for specialized animal quarantine centres. Human Rights Oversight: The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture will visit Sri Lanka from 15–24 June to check detention safeguards, including the follow-up on reforms since its last 2019 mission. Public Safety & Health: Police launched a nationwide crackdown ahead of Poson on modified, excessively loud exhaust vehicles, with impounding for offenders; separately, dengue concerns continue as health services face pressure. Courts & Accountability: Former MPs urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to uphold the rule of law in the case involving detained ex-SIS chief Suresh Saleh. Local Incidents: A 6-year-old child’s body was found in a well in Point Pedro, while a train derailed in Rambukkana but officials said regular services won’t be disrupted. Sports: England crushed Sri Lanka by 87 runs in the Women’s T20 World Cup opener, powered by Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s 105* and a record 219/1.

Women’s T20 World Cup: England crushed Sri Lanka by 87 runs at Edgbaston in the opener, posting a tournament-record 219/1 thanks to Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s unbeaten 105 and Amy Jones’ 53; Sri Lanka were bowled out for 132, with Freya Kemp taking 4/22. Online Safety: Parliament will debate the Online Safety (Repeal) Bill on June 23, with the National Environment (Amendment) Bill expected next on June 24. Easter attacks case: The Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar fixed July 31 to deliver the verdict against ex-IGP Pujith Jayasundara over alleged failure to prevent the Easter Sunday attacks. Sports infrastructure: FIFA has agreed to support building a new international-standard football stadium in Sri Lanka, with Kadolkale, Negombo identified for the project. Digital services: SLT-MOBITEL mCash integrated GovPay to let people pay government services and traffic fines digitally. Economy & policy: A Rs. 20bn supplementary estimate was approved in Parliament without a vote for relief linked to Middle East conflict impacts, while Sri Lanka also launched a new National Mineral Policy to overhaul the sector.

Dengue Alert: Sri Lanka is moving into a high-risk dengue phase, with Colombo flagged as a hotspot and a special eradication programme set for June 15–20, as health authorities warn cases are rising fast and mosquito breeding remains a problem. Judicial Independence: The Attorney General has withdrawn a move to call a sitting High Court judge as a witness, after the Court of Appeal was told no further steps will be taken in that matter. Airline Restructuring: Cabinet has approved a high-level committee to review and restructure SriLankan Airlines, aiming to cut the state’s long-term burden and make the carrier more financially sustainable. Parliament Calendar: Parliament will convene from June 23–26. Corruption Case: Former Special Projects minister S.M. Chandrasena has been indicted over alleged misuse of seed maize meant for low-income farmers. Court Orders DNA Test: A court ordered DNA testing for former Atamasthanadhipathi Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thero in a case involving allegations related to a minor. Public Service Hiring: 100 technical officers will be recruited from June 15. Sports (Women’s T20 World Cup): The tournament begins today with England vs Sri Lanka, with matches hosted across major venues including Old Trafford. International Watch: The UN torture prevention body will return to Sri Lanka from June 15–24 to assess detention safeguards after seven years. Security/Politics: The Attorney General told the Court of Appeal there is no current plan to arrest former Waruna Jayasundara under the PTA. Economy: The rupee weakened further against the US dollar, with some banks selling above Rs. 340.

Courts & Governance: Sri Lanka’s push to increase the retirement age of Superior Court judges is sparking serious disunity, with the government saying it has not yet secured Cabinet approval while legal bodies and experts oppose the move. Justice & Corruption: A Ragama hospital coroner has been arrested by CIABOC over an alleged Rs. 100,000 bribe tied to releasing a judicial medical report, and charges are set to proceed in court. Elders’ Home Fire: The owner of a fire-gutted elders’ home in Horana was granted bail by the Horana Magistrate’s Court, with cash and personal bails and an overseas travel ban. Health & Safety: The Health Ministry warned against non-standard plastic utensils and food containers, saying heat can release harmful chemicals and microplastics linked to long-term health risks. Sports (Sri Lanka-linked): England open the Women’s T20 World Cup against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, with Sri Lanka replacing injured Shashini Gimhani with Chethana Vimukthi. Cricket (India U-19 vs Sri Lanka tour): Anvay Dravid has been named in India’s Under-19 one-day squad for the Sri Lanka tour starting July 4. Business & Markets: Colombo’s stock market extended losses as Middle East tensions weighed on investor confidence.

SLAF Modernisation: Sri Lanka Air Force carried out the first test flight of its upgraded Kfir C12 fighter at SLAF Base Katunayake, after ground validation and systems integration, with defence officials witnessing the milestone. Anti-Corruption Drive: CIABOC arrested 32 state officials in the first four months of 2026 and logged 2,686 complaints in total, with hundreds processed and some referred for full investigations. Public Safety & Crime: Police said a bus conductor died after suspected narcotics packets burst in his stomach, while another raid in Werahera led to the seizure of Ice and heroin. Dengue Control: A three-day dengue prevention campaign resulted in 2,400 legal cases filed and thousands of notices issued, as cases keep rising. El Niño Preparedness: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake chaired a meeting on readiness for El Niño impacts on food, water and power. Coastal Measures: Five Dehiwala beach access roads were formally named, and sea warnings were issued for rough conditions. Trade & Connectivity: SriLankan Airlines announced partnerships with Saudia and Flynas to expand Saudi connections. Sports (Sri Lanka Tour): BCCI named Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan as India U-19 captain for the Sri Lanka tour starting July 4, with Anvay Dravid in the one-day squad. International Support for Parliament: A US delegation visited Sri Lanka’s Parliament to help shape a Parliamentary Budget Office for stronger budget oversight.

Easter Sunday Probe: A five-member medical board has been ordered to examine former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay to determine whether he was tortured in CID custody, after the court said earlier medical reports were not detailed enough. Corruption Case: Former Southern Province chief minister Shan Wijayalal de Silva was remanded over alleged 2019 procurement irregularities involving 16,361 chairs, with claims of losses tied to MP allocations. Education: PM Harini Amarasuriya told Parliament that 267,138 children dropped out of school between 2018 and 2024, while no data exists for 2010-2017. Public Safety: Three schoolchildren were swept away by waves at Galle Face; two were rescued and one remains missing. Water Disruption: NWSDB announced a 12-hour water cut in parts of Mahara and Gampaha from 7pm June 11 to 7am June 12 for Central Expressway pipe relocation. Food Security: The World Food Programme warns the US-Iran war is pushing millions, including about 1.3 million in Sri Lanka, into food insecurity as costs rise and aid funding is cut. Sports (Sri Lanka-linked): Pakistan’s women’s white-ball tour of Sri Lanka is set for July-August, with all matches at Hambantota.

PTA Detention Scrutiny: A Colombo Fort magistrate has ordered a five-member medical board to examine former SIS chief Suresh Sallay and report back on whether he faced prior ill-treatment or torture, after requests tied to his health condition. Dengue Control Drive: Health authorities inspected 31,155 premises in the national dengue programme, flagging 1,864 with larvae and issuing 1,079 notices, with legal action against 711. Rail Disruption Warning: The Railway Controllers’ Union says the ongoing 48-hour action has already restricted parcel and fuel transport and could spread to wider essential services if it continues. IMF Update: The IMF cut Sri Lanka’s 2026 growth forecast to 3% and approved temporary fiscal easing, citing worsened external conditions from the Middle East conflict and Cyclone Ditwah. Tourism Numbers: May hit a record 145,745 arrivals, but early June is weaker with 27,043 visitors in the first week. Marine Industry Boost: Sri Lanka will inaugurate its first boat launching ramp in a Rs. 76 million project to strengthen marine manufacturing and exports. Sports—Cricket A: India A edged Sri Lanka A by 8 runs in the tri-series opener after a late collapse by the hosts. Diplomacy/Trade: Sri Lanka’s delegation is set to take part in China’s China-South Asia Expo, pitching trade links and export opportunities.

Drug Bust: Mumbai airport customs arrested two Sri Lankan nationals for allegedly smuggling about 4.9kg of hydroponic weed worth around Rs 10 crore from Bangkok. Public Services Under Strain: The GPOA says physiotherapy services in government hospitals are crippled by recruitment delays, with some units reportedly shut after staff migrated overseas. Water Disruptions: NWSDB announced a 14-hour water cut in Galle Municipal Council on June 10, and a separate 10-hour cut in parts of Kalutara district due to power issues at a water treatment plant. Dengue Alert: A nationwide dengue control drive inspected over 31,000 premises and found thousands of mosquito breeding sites, with schools and construction sites among the hotspots. Politics & Justice: Parliament approved extending the state of emergency for another month; meanwhile, the Easter probe continues amid renewed public pressure over the detention and health of former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay. Courts & Accountability: Former MP Sarana Gunawardena was sentenced to 16 years’ rigorous imprisonment in corruption cases, and police officers were transferred over misconduct at Kalpitiya station. Economy & Markets: The CSE rebounded as lower oil prices and improved sentiment lifted trading.

Digital Economy Push: Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has approved drafting a Digital Economy Bill to speed up the National Digital Policy, build a legal framework for implementation and enforcement, and focus on emerging areas like AI. Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena was sentenced to a total of 16 years in prison for four corruption cases linked to kickbacks and overpricing during his time as Chairman of the Development Lotteries Board, with a Rs. 1.8 million fine. Transport Safety Plan: The Transport Minister says a demerit system for traffic offences will be introduced in September as a pilot, after road deaths remain high, including many motorcyclist and pedestrian fatalities. Rail Digitisation: Concessionary railway season tickets for government officials will be fully digitised from July via the Pravesha platform. Fire Tragedy: Three people injured in a restaurant fire near Thalawathugoda Junction have died. Maritime Security: Australia and Sri Lanka launched Operation Disi Rela 3, running June 8–17, with ATVs and drones donated to the Coast Guard. Human Rights Oversight: HRCSL has summoned CID officers to clarify the investigation into detained former SIS chief Suresh Sallay. Green Finance Training: Over 200 stakeholders were trained to apply Sri Lanka’s Green Finance Taxonomy in practice under an EU-backed initiative.

Domestic Work Rules in Kuwait: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry has issued a new circular on recruiting domestic workers, allowing hiring from 10 countries (including Sri Lanka) through governorate service centres, while banning recruitment from 27 other countries. Dengue Crackdown: Sri Lanka launched a three-day national dengue mosquito control drive, with over 70,000 premises inspected on day one and legal action taken where larvae were found. Human-Elephant Conflict: The government cleared three long-blocked elephant corridors—Wetahirakanda, Hadapanagala and Koholankala—to ease human-elephant conflict and plans “Elephant Enrichment Zones.” Suresh Sallay Case: Former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay remains in hospital on saline and is still refusing food, according to his wife, as lawyers prepare next steps amid ongoing custody and legal controversy. Road Safety: A bus crash near the Pinnaduwa Interchange on the Southern Expressway injured around ten passengers; police are investigating the cause. UN Hunger Warning: The UN’s WFP says the Iran war is worsening hunger, including in Sri Lanka, where more people are struggling to meet basic food needs.

Transport & Backlog Relief: Vehicle number plate printing resumed after a year-long suspension at the DMT in Werahera, with a backlog cut from about 600,000 to 150,000 plates and an SMS update system promised for owners. Detention & Rights Debate: Opposition parties and supporters staged a protest at Fort Railway Station over the detention of former SIS chief Suresh Sallay, who is in hospital after launching a hunger strike; police deny mistreatment claims. Public Health: Dengue cases have surged to 35,228 this year, up 30–40%, prompting a nationwide mosquito-control drive across 14 districts with police and armed forces support. Elder Care Crackdown: Authorities will begin enforcement against unregistered elderly care homes, noting only 148 of 455 are registered, after a deadly fire at an Anguruwathota facility. Economy & Revenue: Customs says vehicle imports remain steady and still drive a large share of income, despite earlier surcharges. Weather Alert: A red warning is in place for strong winds and rough seas, with fishing and naval communities told to stay ashore.

IMF & Treasury Cyber Fallout: The IMF granted Sri Lanka a waiver after a $2.5m external debt payment was missed due to a Treasury phishing scam that diverted funds by changing bank details, saying the breach was minor and corrective steps were taken. State Sector Watch: Sri Lanka’s major SOEs saw 2025 profits fall 17.6% to Rs. 444.4b, with the Ceylon Electricity Board swinging from profit to a Rs. 38.7b loss. Health Infrastructure Push: Government has started reviving 25 stalled health projects, targeting Rs. 76bn to complete key hospital and ministry works. Former SIS Chief in Hospital: Detained ex-SIS director Suresh Sallay was admitted to the National Hospital on medical advice, after his fast-unto-death protest in CID custody. Tourism & Airport Reality Check: Commentary highlights that Sri Lanka’s tourism push still hinges on fixing Bandaranaike International Airport experience for visitors. Cricket (Regional): West Indies’ Shamar Joseph will miss the final ODI vs Sri Lanka due to personal reasons; rain already washed out the second ODI. Visa Policy: Sri Lanka waived tourist visa fees for Omani citizens, but Bangladesh was left out of the free-visa scheme.

Local Politics: SJB expels five Bulathsinhala Pradeshiya Sabha members over bribery allegations linked to forming power in the council after the last local elections, following a monk’s video presentation to Sajith Premadasa and a party working committee review. Road Safety: A drunk driver hit and killed two women on the Embulgama–Panagoda road in Hanwella, then fled; police arrested the suspect using CCTV and local intelligence. Transport Disruption: Private bus operators plan to cut services by 50% from June 8, prioritising rush hours and school trips while blaming fare disputes and rising costs. Consumer Protection: A Nugegoda food supplier was fined Rs. 75,000 and ordered to destroy expired stock after a Consumer Affairs Authority raid found expired items mixed with fresh goods and missing required details. Public Administration: Divisional Secretaries’ association says it will boycott Monday meetings from June 8, citing clashes with “Public Day” grievance rules. Health & Elder Care: Dengue control steps up with a three-day nationwide campaign from June 8, while the government moves to tighten oversight of unregistered elderly care homes. Education Policy: Sri Lanka launches public consultation on a new National Higher Education Policy Framework, inviting views via an online survey. Regional Cooperation: Nepal PM urges BIMSTEC members, including Sri Lanka, to boost connectivity and tackle climate and disasters together. Aviation Security: CAASL chief Captain Daminda Rambukwella appointed CASP-AP chair for 2026/27 ahead of major aviation security summits in Colombo.

Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka’s dengue risk has hit a critical level, with health authorities warning of rapid spread after reports of about 35,300 cases so far; officials urged early treatment within 24 hours, especially for children, the elderly and pregnant women, and warned against self-medication beyond paracetamol. Public Health & Mosquito Control: Authorities also pushed for intensified community action and an islandwide mosquito control drive set for June 8–10 as cases climb. Rupee & Credit Policy: A fresh Central Bank move to raise interest rates is linked to efforts to curb private credit growth and stabilise the rupee, with critics saying the response was reactive rather than forecast-led. Cybercrime Safe Havens: Commentators warned that cybercrime arrests of foreign nationals in Colombo point to deeper security and regulatory failures, not just isolated scams. Sports—SL vs WI: West Indies won the toss and chose to field in the must-win 2nd ODI against Sri Lanka in Jamaica, with rain a factor and Sri Lanka making a batting change. Maritime Safety: The Meteorology Department issued a rough-seas warning for multiple sea areas around Sri Lanka, urging fishermen and naval communities to avoid risky trips. Business Loss: CBL Group chairman Ramya Sanath Amaraweera Wickramasingha has died, with the company praising his leadership and community-building legacy.

Tropical Health Alert: Sri Lanka’s health authorities warned people to seek care if they have fever for more than 48 hours, as mosquito-borne illnesses remain a major risk. Mosquito Control Push: A special islandwide mosquito control programme is set for June 08–10 across 72 MOH areas in 14 districts, targeting breeding sites with support from police and divisional secretaries. Malaria Concern: Officials also flagged a malaria-related parasite that can infect both humans and animals, making control harder if it spreads. Dengue Watch: With dengue cases rising, authorities urged communities to eliminate abandoned lands and other breeding grounds. Public Safety at Sea: The Meteorology Department issued a warning for rough seas and strong gusty winds around key fishing and naval routes, urging extreme caution. Transport & Environment: The DMT will hold free “vehicle tuning Dansala” for motorcycles and three-wheelers on June 10–11 to cut harmful emissions. Business & Investment: A Sri Lanka–Nepal B2B meeting explored investment in hydropower, tourism and herbal industries, with Nepal pitching its investor-friendly policies. Green Reporting: The EU supported Sri Lanka’s revised National Green Reporting System Guidelines, launched by President Dissanayake. Care Home Tragedy: The death toll from a nursing home fire in Anguruwatota rose to 13, with the director arrested over alleged negligence.