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CID investigates MP Nalin Bandara over seized drones and microphones

The Criminal Investigation Department has appointed a team led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police to investigate Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara Jayamaha over the importation of drones and microphones. Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya ordered the probe after Customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore on Sunday (8). News 1st reported that the items arrived on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 307. Speaking on Monday (9), Jayamaha stated the equipment was imported for a family rental and sales business run by his wife and son. He admitted lacking Defence Ministry approval, but claimed to have clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission. However, News 1st reported that the items lacked approval from both the Defence Ministry and the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission. Police Media Spokesperson ASP F. U. Wootler confirmed the investigation.

PoliticsEnglish

Japan grants 1 billion yen to boost Sri Lanka Navy maritime capabilities

November 11·3 sources

The Government of Japan has agreed to provide a grant of one billion yen, or about Rs. 2.1 billion, under its Official Security Assistance Program 2026 to enhance the Sri Lanka Navy's maritime security and surveillance capabilities. Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma signed the agreement in Colombo. FT.lk and News 1st reported the signing occurred on 10 November 2026, while Virakesari stated it was on 10 October. The grant will fund Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats for maritime law enforcement and disaster response. FT.lk reported 25 vessels will be procured and deployed across the Northern, Eastern, North Western, Western, and Southern Naval Commands. This is Japan's second project under the program, following ¥500 million granted in 2025 to procure surveillance drones for the Navy.

Foreign AffairsEnglishதமிழ்

CID probes 39 drones imported from Singapore by SJB MP Nalin Bandara

November 10·5 sources

Customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara on 8 November. Following instructions from IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya, the matter was handed to the Criminal Investigation Department on 9 November. Daily News reported that the Defence Ministry would assess the equipment. However, Ministry Spokesperson Brigadier Franklin Joseph told The Morning the ministry would not conduct an investigation, leaving action to Customs. Bandara said the commercial camera drones were declared for a family business, adding that only the Defence Ministry permit had lapsed. Meanwhile, Combined Opposition co-convener Nirukshan Kumara urged the SJB to suspend Bandara, alleging illegal importation and tax fraud.

PoliticsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Japan grants Rs. 2.08 billion to Sri Lanka Navy for 25 patrol boats

November 10·3 sources

On 10 November 2026, Japan agreed to provide 1 billion yen (approximately Rs. 2.08 billion) in grant assistance under its 2026 Official Security Assistance programme to strengthen the Sri Lanka Navy’s maritime surveillance capabilities. Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma and Japanese Ambassador ISOMATA Akio signed the agreement, which will be implemented under the Ministry of Defence's coordination. The project will supply 25 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats to be deployed across the Northern, Eastern, North Western, Western, and Southern Naval Commands for coastal surveillance and maritime law enforcement. The assistance addresses increasing Indian Ocean maritime activities and illegal operations while supporting disaster relief. In 2025, Japan provided 500 million yen under the programme to procure naval drones.

Foreign AffairsEnglishසිංහල

Passenger drone tests begin at Colombo Port City ahead of 11 November demonstration

November 9·1 source

Passenger drones are being test-flown at Colombo Port City ahead of an official demonstration on 11 November, as Sri Lanka explores introducing electric air transport. The flights form part of a pilot initiative with Guangzhou-based EHang Holdings, an autonomous aviation technology firm specialising in electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. A video on social media showed a drone, reportedly capable of carrying two people, flying inside Port City. The initiative also covers tourism and logistics uses. According to the Defence Ministry, the demonstration will show how the technology could improve urban air mobility and provide new travel experiences for tourists. The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka has held talks with EHang Holdings and authorities, though no regulatory framework, operator, commercial timeline, or cost has been announced.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Customs detains 39 drones brought from Singapore by MP Nalin Bandara

November 9·2 sources

Customs officers at Katunayake Airport took custody of 39 drones brought from Singapore by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara on 8 November. Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa said the items, along with 16 microphones, were brought illegally without Defence Ministry, Telecom Regulatory Commission, or Import Control approvals, according to Daily News. However, Divaina reported that all necessary approvals were obtained except for the Defence Ministry permit, which had expired. The drones will remain in customs custody until valid approval is granted. Bandara told Divaina that his son brought the drones for business purposes and that they are working to secure the required approvals to release them.

PoliticsEnglishසිංහල

Customs seize 39 drones and 16 microphones brought by SJB MP Nalin Bandara

November 8·10 sources

Katunayake Airport customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara. Most outlets reported the arrival occurred on 8 November, though Daily Mirror stated it was on 11 August. Customs spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa said the items lacked an import control licence, telecommunications regulatory approval, and defence ministry clearance. Dinamina reported the equipment was found in luggage belonging to Bandara and his wife arriving on flight UL-307. Bandara stated that his son's company imported the drones, adding that only the defence ministry permit had expired. Customs detained the equipment and instructed the MP to present the required approvals as investigations continue.

PoliticsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Passenger drones undergo test flights at Colombo Port City ahead of official demonstration

November 8·1 source

Passenger drones are undergoing test flights at Colombo Port City ahead of an official demonstration scheduled for 11 November, as Sri Lanka explores introducing electric air transport technology. The pilot initiative involves Chinese aviation technology company EHang Holdings, which specialises in electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. Video footage shows an aircraft reportedly capable of carrying two passengers being tested in the area. The project aims to explore potential uses in urban transport, tourism and logistics. According to the Ministry of Defence, the demonstration will showcase how the technology could improve urban mobility and offer new travel experiences. The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka has also held discussions with EHang Holdings and relevant government authorities regarding the introduction of the technology.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Taiwan and Philippines step up security amid Chinese threats to undersea cables

November 7·2 sources

Undersea cables, carrying approximately 99% of global data exchange, face increasing risks from Chinese pressure on Taiwan and the Philippines, foreign media reported. Disconnecting a single cable could isolate island nations, halt banking systems, and cripple military communications. These concerns have prompted regional navies and telecommunications companies to reconsider security. In 2023, Philippine Coast Guard and Japanese vessels conducted joint exercises off Bataan against cable sabotage, while Taiwan arranged to buy sea drones to counter Chinese influence. Undersea cable systems in the Middle East also face mounting risks stemming from military tensions between the United States and Iran.

Foreign Affairsසිංහල

D. S. Senanayake College holds fifth AVIONICS air show in Colombo

November 7·1 source

The Aviation Society of D. S. Senanayake College, Colombo, recently held the fifth edition of the AVIONICS ’26 Air Show. The event was chaired by Thisen Premarathne, with Thilina Sri Warnasinghe attending as chief guest. Organised under the theme “Dream Beyond Limits, Design Your Dream and Launch Your Future”, the event aimed to enhance students' knowledge and foster interest in aircraft technology and engineering. Students from the host college and invited schools flew remote-controlled aircraft, drones, and jet planes. The programme served as a competitive platform to evaluate students' technical knowledge, practical skills, and creativity.

EducationEnglish

Sri Lanka Air Force to procure four Israeli drones for Rs. 4.26 billion

November 6·2 sources

Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekera told Parliament on 5 November that the Sri Lanka Air Force will procure four unmanned aerial vehicles from Israel for Rs. 4,261 million. The government-to-government purchase from Israel Aerospace Industries or affiliate BlueBird Aero Systems aims to boost maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and disaster response. The procurement includes two ThunderB drones and two aircraft with 20-hour endurance and vertical or short takeoff capabilities, plus training and three years of maintenance. Jayasekera said the cost would be absorbed by reallocated helicopter maintenance savings without new funding. However, Daily Mirror cited the Government Information Department stating Parliament approved funds drawn from the Consolidated Fund, other state funds, or loans. Following legal review by the Attorney General’s Department and Cabinet approval, the government targets signing the agreement in December.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Sri Lanka to purchase four drones for Air Force maritime surveillance

November 6·1 source

Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara announced that four unmanned aerial vehicles will be purchased for the Sri Lanka Air Force to strengthen security and surveillance in the country's Exclusive Economic Zone. Presenting an urgent procurement requirement under a Ministry of Defence supplementary estimate, Jayasekara stated that the maritime boundary covers 517,000 square kilometres, which is 27 times larger than Sri Lanka's land area. The drones will be deployed for intelligence gathering and reconnaissance, including monitoring suspicious vessels, fishing activities, and missing fishermen. Jayasekara noted that unmanned aircraft have contributed to national security operations since 1996.

Otherසිංහල

Sri Lanka plans to procure four Israeli drones for Rs 4.26 billion

November 5·2 sources

The Sri Lankan government plans to procure four advanced drones from Israel for Rs 4.261 billion under a government-to-government arrangement, Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara told Parliament on 5 November. The aircraft will monitor Sri Lanka’s 517,000-square-kilometre Exclusive Economic Zone, track suspicious vessels, assist search and rescue operations, and support disaster relief. The fleet includes two ThunderB drones and others capable of flying up to 20 hours, alongside operational training and three years of maintenance support. Jayasekara said the purchase requires no new state funding, as money is being reallocated from Air Force helicopter maintenance. Following parliamentary approval, the deal will face legal and Cabinet review before a targeted December signing.

PoliticsEnglish

North Central Agriculture Department demonstrates drone technology to Thrippane farmers

November 5·1 source

The North Central Provincial Department of Agriculture conducted a field day program on 3 November 2026 in Eruwewa village, within the Thrippane Agrarian Services area, to introduce drone technology to local farmers. The event featured a practical demonstration of paddy cultivation using drones, showing farmers how agricultural activities can be carried out more efficiently and in less time than traditional methods. The program aimed to move beyond traditional subsistence agriculture and improve production efficiency, supporting farmers in becoming profitable agricultural entrepreneurs. Attendees included Ministry of Agriculture Secretary Subhajini Madiyalagan, North Central Province Director of Agriculture Haritha Nimalananda, and Thrippane Zone Assistant Director of Agriculture H. Lalantha.

Otherසිංහල

Russian strike on Kharkiv hospital injures 73 amid widespread energy attacks

November 4·1 source

At least 73 people were injured when Russia bombed a hospital in Kharkiv on the night of 2 November. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov stated on Telegram that the hospital was severely damaged, with more than a thousand windows shattered. Zelensky told X radio that Russia simultaneously conducted multiple attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Terekhov said power plants and substations were targeted in Odesa, Cherkasy, Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Chernivtsi, Chernihiv, and Rivne. He added that Russia launched 289 attack drones, 17 ballistic missiles, and 59 cruise missiles overnight.

Foreign Affairsதமிழ்

Japanese defense delegation visits India to explore missile and drone training

November 3·1 source

A Japanese Ministry of Defense delegation has visited India to explore training the Japan Self-Defense Forces in operating surface-to-ship missiles and attack drones. Japan Self-Defense Forces Chief of Staff General Masayoshi Arai said the visit aimed to enhance self-defense capabilities, noting Japan lacks suitable areas to test missiles capable of striking hundreds of kilometers. During the week-long visit, the delegation observed Indian missile testing centers and assessed missile launch ranges.

Foreign Affairsසිංහල

Indian opposition rallies in New Delhi demanding election chief Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation

November 1·1 source

India’s opposition bloc INDIA staged a rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on Sunday, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over an ongoing voter roll revision. Led by Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi, thousands of demonstrators accused the government of undermining democracy through a revision that has removed more than 130 million names since last year. Critics and Human Rights Watch alleged the exercise disenfranchises marginalized groups, particularly Muslims. The Election Commission and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration denied this, stating the process only removes duplicate and ineligible entries. Authorities deployed thousands of security personnel, drones, and over 200 surveillance cameras after recently removing the capital's traditional Jantar Mantar protest site from designated demonstration venues.

Foreign AffairsEnglish

Indian women farmers showcase agricultural drone use at Paris conference

October 30·1 source

Indian women farmers' role in agricultural transformation received significant attention during a five-day conference and exhibition in Paris. An Indian delegation led by Indian Trade Promotion Organization President Javed Ashraf highlighted their contributions during the United Nations' International Year of Women Farmers. Maharashtra farmer Priyanka Rushikesh, a certified drone pilot under the Indian government's Namo Drone Didi scheme, accompanied the delegation to Paris. Operating drones since 2024 to scatter seeds and spray nano fertilizers, Rushikesh said the technology greatly facilitated her agricultural work. She noted that spraying one acre of farmland requires seven minutes and 10 liters of water using drones, compared to a full day and 200 liters traditionally.

Foreign Affairsසිංහල

Elephant calf with neurological disorder recovers at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

October 29·3 sources

A six-year-old male elephant calf suffering from a neurological disorder is recovering after being found lying grounded for several days in Medawachchiya. The calf received initial care from the Pandulagama Veterinary Unit before being transferred to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home on 22 October. Support structures used to keep him upright have since been removed. According to veterinarians, the calf is eating and drinking well under the supervision of Chief Veterinary Officer Malaka Abeywardena and will be monitored with a radio collar. Separately, wildlife authorities and the armed forces have deployed military personnel and drones to protect wild elephants. Dinamina specified that 13 tuskers are being individually monitored.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහල

Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan agree to continue regional security talks

October 28·2 sources

Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey and Pakistan agreed on 26 October in Tehran to continue talks to strengthen regional peace and security cooperation. The high-level meeting included Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Pakistani army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Pakistani officials told Reuters that discussions addressed regional nonaggression, US-Iran negotiations, Houthi attacks and the Strait of Hormuz, adding that Munir presented a proposal backed by US President Donald Trump. Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei said the visit demonstrated that US threats had little impact and showed a positive environment had emerged. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting three Houthi ballistic missiles and seven drones targeting Saudi Arabia across Monday and Tuesday, with no casualties recorded.

Foreign AffairsEnglishதமிழ்

Oil prices fall after nearing six-month highs amid attacks on Saudi facilities

October 27·1 source

Oil prices fell on Monday (26) after surging to near six-month highs late last week, though ongoing attacks on Saudi Arabia kept supply concerns in focus. US crude futures declined $1.60, or 1.55%, to $101.67 per barrel, while Brent crude fell $1.56, or 1.34%, to $115.16. Prices had settled nearly $3 higher on Friday (23) after Houthi attacks stoked energy supply concerns, ending the week up 6% for Brent and 2.3% for WTI. Houthis claimed strikes on a Saudi airport and oil facilities on Saturday (24). Saudi Arabia intercepted further missiles and drones on Sunday (25) and partially reopened its main airport despite continued threats.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Environment Ministry and Tri-Forces launch joint program to protect Sri Lanka's wild elephants

October 26·6 sources

Sri Lanka's Environment Ministry, Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the Tri-Forces have launched a joint initiative to protect wild elephants. Daily Mirror and Divaina reported the planning meeting occurred on 23 October, though later Divaina reported 24 October. An operations room at Army Headquarters will coordinate responses with wildlife officials and soldiers. Wildlife officers will train military personnel in animal handling, and military camps will provide accommodation and research facilities for wildlife staff. Special units and drones will track vulnerable tuskers in high-risk areas, including 13 specific roaming elephants. Joint raids will target wildlife offences, particularly explosive "hakka patas" baits, alongside weekly data evaluations and monthly progress reviews. Separately, Polonnaruwa District Secretary Sujantha Ekanayake announced that approximately 15 hectares in Kalahagala will be allocated for a new elephant transit home for calves separated from mothers or injured.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහල

Russia attacks cargo ship heading to Chornomorsk and logistics sites in Kharkiv

October 26·1 source

Russia's Ministry of Defense announced on 25 October 2026 that its drones attacked a cargo ship heading towards the Black Sea port of Chornomorsk overnight. The ministry stated that the vessel was supplying goods to the Ukrainian military. Russian forces also attacked a logistics center, a supply station, and a logistics terminal in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. The ministry said these facilities stored and distributed dual-use goods for Ukraine's military. Meanwhile, Ukrainian attacks on Russia killed three people and injured 14. Local officials reported on 25 October 2026 that two people were killed and 13 were injured in a Ukrainian drone attack on Belgorod, near the border.

Foreign Affairsதமிழ்

Sri Lankan tri-forces will gather information on tuskers under new protection programme

October 26·1 source

Sri Lanka’s tri-forces will gather information on the country’s estimated 13 tuskers to enhance elephant protection and mitigate human-elephant conflict, Army Spokesperson Major General Waruna Gamage said on 25 October. The military will monitor elephant locations and safety using drones and local community reports alongside the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Gamage stated that the programme's initial stage has already begun. Developed from a concept by Defence Ministry Secretary retired Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, the plan was approved at an Environment Ministry meeting chaired by Minister Dr Dhammika Patabendi on 23 October. A proposed special operations centre at Army Headquarters will coordinate intelligence-sharing, joint operations in frequent conflict areas, and specialised training to prevent wild elephant killings.

Environment & WeatherEnglish

Houthis warn against using Riyadh airport as authorities prepare to resume flights

October 25·1 source

Houthi rebels have warned airlines, staff, and passengers to avoid King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, declaring the site remains a military target and operations against it will continue. The warning followed an announcement on 24 October that terminals 1 and 2 would reopen for domestic and national international flights starting 25 October. Operations were suspended after a 10 October Houthi-claimed attack killed 13 people and injured over 300, the deadliest attack on Saudi Arabia in over a decade. Saudi Arabia has intensified airstrikes and support for Yemeni government forces, while Houthis continue targeting Saudi airports, ports, and oil infrastructure with drones and ballistic missiles.

Foreign Affairsසිංහල

Ukraine reports Starlink remains restricted despite Donald Trump saying limits were lifted

October 23·1 source

Ukrainian defence ministry sources say the military is still experiencing Starlink disruptions, despite US President Donald Trump stating on Thursday that Elon Musk had restored the service. Officials reported that drones travelling faster than 161 km/h (100 mph) lose connectivity, hampering defensive coordination and attack drones. The ministry added there is no confirmation that limits have been removed. Trump previously denied ordering curbs on the military-grade Starshield network, while the White House has repeatedly denied deliberately placing limits on the network in Ukraine. Musk also denied causing the slowdown, suggesting that the US Pentagon controls Starshield and could be behind the issues. The service slowdown occurred amid diplomatic tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure.

Foreign AffairsEnglish

Tusker Agbo found in Nachchaduwa reserve after two-day search

October 20·9 sources

The wild tusker Agbo was found on 19 October in the Nachchaduwa Tank Reserve in Anuradhapura, ending a two-day joint search by the Sri Lanka Army and the Department of Wildlife Conservation. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake ordered the operation after a request from the Environment Minister; Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyakonta directed troops to assist. Around 30 soldiers were initially deployed, later increased to 50 under four officers of the 21st Infantry Division, including Major General Kaminda Silva. Army and Air Force drones supported the search. Assistant Wildlife Ranger Buddhika Athukorala confirmed Agbo was in good health. Reports differed on whether the elephant was injured: Daily Mirror said it was reported injured, while other outlets said it was unharmed. The elephant had moved from Eruwewa along the A-9 road toward the reserve on 18 October.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Ukrainian drone attack kills one, wounds five at St. Petersburg oil terminal

October 18·1 source

A Ukrainian drone attack on St. Petersburg caused a fire at the Petersburg Oil Terminal, the largest such facility in the Baltic region, the local governor said. One person was killed and five others wounded in the city, while four were hospitalized for smoke inhalation after debris hit an apartment block in Vsevolzhsk. Russian officials said air defenses shot down 144 UAVs overnight, with debris also damaging residential areas in Gatchina and Kirovsk. About 20,000 people lost power in Leningrad Region, and flights were delayed at Pulkovo Airport. The Russian Defense Ministry reported destroying 1,015 Ukrainian drones across 16 regions. VK and Ozon said their facilities were hit. Ukraine continues targeting Russian oil infrastructure despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s demands to stop, as he links the attacks to rising global energy prices.

Foreign AffairsEnglish

Houthis attack Saudi oil facilities after coalition strikes Yemen fuel depot

October 15·1 source

Saudi-led coalition airstrikes hit the Al-Sabaha Central Energy Station in Sana'a, Yemen, on the night of April 13, causing multiple explosions, according to eyewitnesses cited by AP. The Houthis then intensified retaliatory attacks on Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Dammam, and Dhahran, using missiles and drones. The Saudi Energy Ministry confirmed that the administrative building of state oil company Aramco in Dhahran was attacked and caught fire. A company source told Reuters that a missile hit the Aramco headquarters complex, damaging the top three floors of an office tower. The Houthis warned employees and the public to evacuate Aramco facilities, calling them "legitimate targets," and threatened further attacks on Riyadh. Saudi officials said drones and missiles were intercepted, but debris from two destroyed missiles injured four people in Riyadh and caused minor damage to 15 houses, according to the Civil Defense Directorate. The Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV reported the coalition targeted the Saba Central Fuel Station, a fuel depot on Sana'a's outskirts.

Foreign Affairsதமிழ்

Thermal-imaging drones to monitor ailing elephant Kavantissa at night

October 15·1 source

Thermal-imaging drones will be deployed to monitor the nighttime behavior of the ailing elephant Kavantissa, following an inspection by Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Patabendi. The minister highlighted the need to observe the elephant's movements, water consumption, and other activities in low-light conditions. The drones were arranged by the minister to help the veterinary team better understand Kavantissa's behavior and make informed treatment decisions. The treatment plan involves veterinarians from the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Department of National Zoological Gardens, along with professors from the University of Peradeniya's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The minister also instructed authorities to strengthen coordination among the institutions and seek additional veterinary expertise when needed.

Environment & WeatherEnglish