Lankan Deaf News Network

Lankan Deaf News Network We share news, updates, and interviews relevant to the Sri Lankan Deaf community. We are a volunteer-based initiative serving the Deaf community in Sri Lanka.

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10/07/2026

US launches strikes on Iran for a second day after Trump says agreement to end the war is ‘over’
The United States carried out a second day of airstrikes against Iran after President Donald Trump declared that the interim agreement to end the war was over.
According to U.S. officials, the strikes targeted military locations in Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Bushehr Province. The United States said the attacks were retaliation for Iran's alleged attack on three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz the previous day.
The U.S. military stated that the strikes were intended to reduce Iran's ability to threaten international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran also launched attacks toward U.S. military bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. Bahrain activated air raid sirens, while Kuwait reported intercepting drones and missiles.
Meanwhile, Iran said the attacks did not damage the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.
The latest escalation has increased concerns that efforts to reach a permanent peace agreement have collapsed.
The conflict has also affected global markets. Oil prices rose by more than five percent, while U.S. stock markets declined.
Investigations and military operations are continuing, and tensions remain high across the Middle East.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/08/us-carries-out-another-wave-of-strikes-on-iran

09/07/2026

Ukrainian drones batter Russian oil facilities and set more oil tankers ablaze
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a 40-day campaign of long-range strikes to pressure Russia into ending the war and returning to peace negotiations.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine has repeatedly called for peace, but President Vladimir Putin has refused to agree to end the fighting. He said that every day Russia continues the war, it should also experience the consequences of the conflict.
As part of the campaign, Ukraine has launched another wave of long-range drone attacks across Russia.
According to Ukrainian officials, the strikes targeted oil depots, fuel storage facilities, an oil pumping station, an oil-loading terminal, and two oil tankers in the Sea of Azov. Ukraine said the objective is to weaken Russia's fuel supply and reduce its ability to continue the war.
Russian authorities reported fires at several oil facilities and said air defense systems intercepted dozens of Ukrainian drones. Meanwhile, Russia launched overnight drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, causing damage in several locations.
During the NATO Summit, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States will grant Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot air defense systems, strengthening Ukraine's ability to defend against Russian missile attacks.
The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy was described as positive, with both leaders expressing support for continued cooperation.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/26/ukraine-war-briefing-zelenskyy-40-day-russia-blitz
https://abcnews.com/Business/wireStory/ukrainian-drones-batter-russian-oil-facilities-set-oil-134608817

09/07/2026

AFA Money Laundering Scandal Rocks Argentina Football
Argentina's Football Association (AFA) is facing a major money laundering investigation involving more than 260 million US dollars.
Authorities in Argentina and the United States, including the FBI, are investigating whether money earned from international sponsorships and commercial agreements was properly transferred to the football association.
Investigators allege that millions of dollars may have been diverted through shell companies and used to purchase luxury homes, private jets, expensive vehicles, yachts, and other luxury items.
The investigation also focuses on a luxury apartment in Miami and a mansion in Buenos Aires, which authorities believe may have been purchased using the missing funds.
Police have carried out raids at the Argentine Football Association headquarters and other locations. U.S. authorities have also opened a financial crimes investigation.
The case is now considered one of the biggest financial scandals in Argentine football and investigations are continuing.

Source: https://themorningtelegraph.com/46811/

06/07/2026

At Least 25 Killed in Sri Lanka Prison Riots
Negombo, Sri Lanka — At least 25 people, including four prison guards, have been killed and more than 100 others injured following two days of violent unrest at Negombo Prison, located north of Colombo.
The violence began on Sunday with clashes between two groups of inmates. During the disturbance, prisoners allegedly seized fi****ms from prison officers. Two people were killed that day, and dozens more were injured.
Later, groups of male inmates, along with women from an adjoining prison unit, climbed onto prison rooftops demanding to be released.
The violence escalated on Monday when inmates attempted to force their way through the prison gates. Security forces were deployed, and multiple gunshots were heard from inside the prison.
According to reports, the riots were triggered by a dispute after an inmate allegedly informed authorities about a drug trafficking operation inside the prison.
Many of the injured were taken to Negombo Hospital, while others were transferred to the National Hospital of Sri Lanka in Colombo. Hospital officials said some victims suffered gunshot wounds, while others sustained cuts and serious bruises.
Police also reported that part of the prison roof collapsed during the unrest, injuring several female inmates.
As the situation unfolded, relatives of prisoners gathered outside the prison seeking information about their family members. Many told BBC Sinhala they had not been informed whether their relatives were safe, injured, or among those killed.
Authorities have begun transferring inmates to other prisons while security forces continue clearing affected areas. The military remains on standby following a request for assistance from the police.
Prisons Commissioner Media Spokesperson A.C. Gajanayake confirmed that arrangements are underway to relocate prisoners.
Meanwhile, Minister of Justice and Prisons Harshana Nanayakkara has instructed officials to conduct a full investigation and submit a report.
Although prison riots occasionally occur in Sri Lanka's overcrowded prison system, officials say this is the deadliest prison disturbance in several years. In December 2020, a separate prison riot claimed 11 lives and left 117 people injured.
According to reports, Sri Lanka's prisons were holding approximately 41,250 inmates as of Sunday—around four times their intended capacity.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg77klne3yo
https://www.qcnews.com/news/world-news/ap-deadly-clashes-break-out-at-prison-in-sri-lanka/

05/07/2026

Former Navy Commander Wasantha Karannagoda Granted Bail
COLOMBO (News 1st): Former Navy Commander, Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, who was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), was today released on bail by the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court.
Karannagoda was arrested earlier today over allegations of corruption linked to the recruitment of Yosh*tha Rajapaksa, the son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, as an Executive Branch officer cadet in the Sri Lanka Navy in 2006.
According to the allegations, Yosh*tha Rajapaksa did not meet the required recruitment qualifications. Despite this, he was recruited and later sent to undergo training at the Britannia Royal Naval College in the United Kingdom using government funds, allegedly in violation of established recruitment procedures.
Karannagoda was produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court by Ruwini Wickramasinghe, Deputy Director General of the Bribery Commission.
The Bribery Commission informed the court that the recruitment qualifications for the Navy's Executive Branch had allegedly been altered to facilitate Yosh*tha Rajapaksa's recruitment.
President's Counsel Shavindra Fernando, appearing for Karannagoda, requested that his client be released on appropriate bail.
After considering the submissions made by both parties, the Colombo Chief Magistrate ordered Karannagoda's release on bail.
The case has been fixed for further hearing on 4 August.
Source: https://www.newsfirst.lk/2026/07/03/former-navy-commander-wasantha-karannagoda-granted-bail

05/07/2026

Government Considers Drug Test Kits for Parents to Check Children
The Sri Lankan Government is considering introducing drug testing kits that would allow parents to privately determine whether their children have used illegal drugs.
The proposal was discussed during the 'Ratama Ekata' National Operations Council meeting on eradicating drug abuse, chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat.
According to the President's Media Division, the drug testing kits would be made available through pharmacies, allowing parents to conduct confidential drug tests at home.
The meeting also discussed additional measures to strengthen the country's fight against drug abuse. These include expanding drug awareness programmes in schools, conducting a nationwide survey on drug use among schoolchildren, and improving rehabilitation services for people with drug addiction.
Officials revealed that approximately 70 percent of Sri Lanka's prison population consists of individuals with drug addiction, highlighting the seriousness of the country's drug problem.
The Government also reviewed plans to accelerate the destruction of confiscated narcotics, improve forensic drug testing, strengthen maritime anti-drug operations, and finalize legislation aimed at the rehabilitation of drug users.
The proposals form part of the Government's broader national campaign to reduce drug abuse and improve public safety.
Source: https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/03/govt-considers-drug-test-kits-for-parents-to-check-children/

03/07/2026

Today, Sri Lanka is experiencing another dengue epidemic, with cases increasing across the country.
Dengue is a viral disease spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes. It does not spread directly from one person to another.
The first symptoms usually include a high fever, headache, body aches, tiredness, and sometimes pain behind the eyes.
During the first two days, dengue and influenza can look almost identical. Because of this, doctors advise people not to diagnose themselves at home.
If your fever lasts for more than two days, visit a doctor or hospital and have a Full Blood Count (FBC) test. This is the best way to help distinguish dengue from other viral illnesses.
Seek medical attention immediately if you develop severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in your vomit or stool, unusual drowsiness, reduced urination, or cold, clammy skin.
One important fact is that dengue can become more dangerous after the fever goes away. The highest-risk period is usually 24 to 48 hours after the fever breaks, so patients should continue to be closely monitored.
The best way to prevent dengue is to remove mosquito breeding places every week. Spend about 30 minutes checking your home and surroundings.
Throw away containers that collect rainwater, cover water tanks and buckets, clean gutters and trays, and store tires, buckets, and other containers where they cannot collect water.
Fogging can temporarily reduce adult mosquito populations, but it does not kill mosquito larvae. It should be used together with other mosquito control measures.
According to the latest health reports, Sri Lanka has recorded more than 50,000 dengue cases in 2026, with more than 28 deaths. More than half of all cases have been reported from the Western Province.
Health officials remind everyone not to ignore a fever. If you have a fever for more than two days, seek medical care and have a Full Blood Count test. Early diagnosis and treatment can save lives.
Thank you for watching.
Source: https://share.google/oIV0sEX3Ll8Jgp3VT

01/07/2026

Harak Kata Bribery Investigation Expands

Sri Lankan authorities have expanded their investigation into an alleged bribery network linked to organized crime figure Nadun Chinthaka Wickramaratne, also known as Harak Kata. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Last week, three people were arrested and remanded: Lawyer Rakitha Rajapaksa Former Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Horana organizer Charith Abeysinghe A former director of the Civil Aviation Authority Investigators are examining allegations that large sums of money were paid to influence official decisions involving Harak Kata and to obtain special privileges for him while he was in custody. Police are reviewing financial records, witness statements, and alleged connections between organized crime figures and public officials. According to reports, investigators have obtained evidence suggesting that some lawyers and senior police officers may have received large amounts of money. The alleged payments were made to protect Harak Kata while he was in state custody, influence legal proceedings, and prevent harm to him. Authorities are also investigating claims that money was paid to allow Harak Kata to receive prohibited privileges, including making video calls with his child while detained. Another allegation is that a politician accepted money after claiming to have influence over senior government officials. Investigators are also examining claims that some police officers attempted to intimidate witnesses connected to the case. The investigation is continuing, and authorities are working to determine whether additional arrests are necessary. At this stage, these remain allegations under investigation, and no findings of guilt have been made by a court.

Sources: https://themorningtelegraph.com/45772/

22/06/2026

Jeffry Mohamed Arrested in Alleged Rs. 21 Billion Illegal Dollar Transfer Network
The Financial Investigation Division arrested Jeffry Mohamed, who is accused of leading a large-scale money laundering operation that allegedly transferred more than Rs. 21 billion (over US$700 million) out of Sri Lanka illegally.
According to investigators, Jeffry Mohamed operated through a company called A.Y. Investments in Colombo Fort, where he allegedly served as the company's director.
Police say the operation had been active since 2023 and allowed businesses to transfer money overseas outside legal banking channels while claiming the funds were for importing goods.
Authorities believe the scheme caused significant losses in government tax and customs revenue.
The investigation began after information was disclosed in Parliament by Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala. The investigation expanded after the arrest of a suspected drug trafficker, whose interrogation reportedly revealed links between the money transfer network and organized crime figures.
Police suspect that the network may also have been used to transfer proceeds from illegal drug activities out of Sri Lanka.
Jeffry Mohamed was arrested on June 19 while allegedly hiding in a luxury apartment complex in Negombo.
During the investigation, police discovered that bank accounts had been opened using the names of 36 low-income individuals. These accounts were allegedly used to process illegal money transfers. Investigators are also examining whether bank officials assisted in facilitating the transactions.
According to police, Jeffry Mohamed admitted charging a commission of Rs. 2 for every US$1 transferred through the network.
Authorities seized several luxury vehicles worth more than Rs. 200 million, which are believed to have been purchased using profits from the alleged operation.
On June 20, Jeffry Mohamed was produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court. The court granted a seven-day detention order to allow further questioning.
Police continue to investigate the case and are seeking to identify and arrest other businessmen, traders, and individuals suspected of using the illegal remittance network.
Source: https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Alleged-mastermind-behind-Rs-21-Billion-illegal-Dollar-transfer-network-arrested/108-343509

12/06/2026

Sri Lanka Anti-Corruption Update (January–April 2026)

June 11
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) arrested 32 state officials and public servants during the first four months of 2026.
Those arrested included:
A Zonal Education Director
A Quazi Judge
Four police officers, including a Sub-Inspector and a Sergeant
Five Forest Department officials
Several local government officers
These arrests were made as part of investigations into bribery and corruption within the public sector.
CIABOC received 786 complaints in April, bringing the total number of complaints received between January and April to 2,686.
During April, 1,267 complaints were processed, including older cases carried over from previous months.
Of the complaints reviewed:
151 were referred for full investigations.
639 were dismissed because there was not enough evidence or they were outside CIABOC's authority.
81 were referred to other institutions.
15 were sent to investigators for statements to be recorded.
By the end of April, CIABOC reduced its complaint backlog to 350 pending cases.
The Commission also continued legal action against corruption suspects.
During April:
Five new court cases were filed.
Seven accused persons were charged.
For 2026 overall:
38 cases were filed.
51 defendants were involved.
The accused include former senior government officials and politicians, such as:
A former Minister of Petroleum Resources Development
A former Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation
A former CEO of Mihin Lanka
A former Minister of Health and Mass Media
During the first four months of 2026:
Courts completed 13 corruption cases.
14 people were convicted.
Those convicted included:
Four civilians
One police Sub-Inspector
Two Quazi Judges
A former Human Resources Director of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority
The Commission recovered Rs. 1.88 million through fines, penalties, and compensation.
As of April 30, 2026:
314 corruption cases were active in court.
295 of those cases were being prosecuted in the High Court.

Source: https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Over-30-public-officials-arrested-over-bribery-charges-during-first-four-months/108-342641?shem=rimspwouoe,

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