AGP Executive Report

Negombo Prison Riot Aftermath: Sri Lanka’s justice ministry says a new prison will be set up in a disused hospital building in Mahamodara, Galle, as overcrowding and outdated practices keep coming under fire after the Negombo clashes that killed 26 inmates and eight guards. Accountability Push: In Parliament, SLPP organizer Namal Rajapaksa argued “system change” has failed and said the responsible minister should have resigned, while families and officials continue to mourn the dead. Prison Reform Signals: The ministry also ordered security and essentials for the new facility, as coffins of seven tactical unit officers were handed to families following official tributes. Housing and Water Priorities: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake outlined a housing assistance programme to help low-income families finish partially built homes, and said the 2027 Budget will prioritise long-term drinking water solutions while streamlining overlapping institutions. Health Warning: Health authorities report a rise in tinea infections and warn against steroid creams and self-medication. Transport Policy: The Transport Minister told Parliament that a stipulated fare system for buses and other vehicles is planned, while the longer-term goal is free public transport. Education Reform: PM Harini Amarasuriya said reforms from 2027 will shift schools toward practical, skills-based learning and vocational training. Wildlife Conflict Plan: Government moves to clear and protect key elephant corridors in Anuradhapura using GPS mapping and reserved zones. Digital Safety: A study warns AI-generated fake female profiles on Facebook are being used to lure Sri Lankans into scams and adult-chat sites. Cricket: West Indies ended a three-year Test series wait, beating Sri Lanka 1-0 after rain-affected draws, with Justin Greaves and Shai Hope starring.

Negombo Prison Riot Aftermath: Sri Lanka’s Negombo Prison violence is still unfolding in public view, with officials saying the clashes were linked to rival inmate groups tied to drug trafficking and organized crime; CID has launched major investigations, courts were told of security concerns ahead of proceedings, and nearly 700 inmates were transferred as the death toll rose to 26 (including seven prison officers) with dozens injured. Probe and Accountability: A committee of inquiry has been appointed to examine what led to the unrest, while the Health Minister visited the National Hospital to check on injured officers and inmates. Cricket—West Indies vs Sri Lanka: West Indies secured a rare Test series win after a rain-affected draw in the second Test, with Sri Lanka posting 281-run lead at lunch on Day 5 as the match headed toward a stalemate. Pakistan Women’s Tour Update: Fatima Sana will miss Sri Lanka’s T20Is to play in England’s Women’s Hundred, after featuring in the ODI leg. Local Transport Disruption: Three platforms at Colombo Fort reopened after a train derailment, with repairs continuing only on the affected track. Markets: The Colombo Stock Exchange slipped again as investors stayed cautious ahead of the earnings season.

Negombo Prison Violence: Sri Lanka’s deadliest prison clash is still unfolding, with the death toll rising to 27 after another inmate died in hospital. Authorities say 700 inmates were moved to other prisons, while investigations continue into how weapons were obtained and whether officers fired to prevent a wider breach. Accountability Push: The Justice Minister has taken responsibility, but opposition MPs are demanding an urgent parliamentary debate and a separate independent probe, while critics point to overcrowding and poor conditions. Dengue Alert: The University of Moratuwa was temporarily closed for two weeks due to dengue risk, and doctors warn the real number of dengue infections may be far higher than official figures. Road Safety: Police report 1,431 road deaths in the first six months of the year, blaming speeding, reckless driving and drink-driving. Trade & Economy: Sri Lanka’s exports topped USD 7.3 billion in the first five months, with apparel, coconut and rubber leading growth. Transport Disruption: A power-set shortage will cut the Colombo–Jaffna/KKS intercity service to four days a week from July 10. Corruption Case: Former state minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa and two others were served indictments in a CIABOC case over Rs. 8.85 million in compensation claims.

Negombo Prison Riot: Sri Lanka’s deadliest prison riot in years erupted at Negombo Prison, with officials saying at least 26 people were killed and more than 100 wounded, including prison officers, as rival inmate groups fought amid reports of drug-gang links. Government Response: The Cabinet has approved a formal investigation into the violence, appointing a committee chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Priyantha Fernando to identify causes and recommend safeguards. Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka reported 61,060 dengue cases in 2026, with 2,604 new infections in 24 hours, and Western Province bearing the brunt as hospitals reach capacity. Legal Moves: The Attorney General asked the Court of Appeal to refer former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s petition seeking protection from arrest to the Supreme Court. Transport Upgrade: Narahenpita Railway Station in Colombo reopened after a Rs. 40 million renovation under the Dream Destination initiative. Cricket (Youth): Anvay Dravid struck 87 as India U-19 recovered to 285 against Sri Lanka U-19, with Gimhan Mendis taking 5/41. Cricket (County): Nottinghamshire signed Sri Lanka’s Binura Fernando as Mohammad Ali left for Pakistan’s Test squad.

Negombo Prison Riot: At least 25 people were killed and about 100 injured in clashes between rival inmate groups at Negombo Prison, with police and STF units deployed and the military on standby; Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara said he will take responsibility and a special investigation is underway, while authorities also began transferring inmates to other prisons to ease tensions. Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka’s dengue situation is worsening, with official cases reaching 61,060 and Western Province under heavy pressure; the GMOA warns the real number of infections may be far higher than reported, and a “Stop Dengue Now” campaign is pushing intensified prevention in Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara. Tax Filing Online: The Inland Revenue Department opened its e-service portal for 2025/26 income tax returns, urging electronic filing by November 30, 2026. Immigration Fraud Probe: A deputy controller of immigration was arrested over alleged help in issuing a fraudulent passport. Sports (Youth Cricket): Anvay Dravid made 87 off 67 balls as India U19 posted 285 against Sri Lanka U19 in Hambantota.

Renewables Push: SLAM Power Solutions and Ceyring commissioned Sri Lanka’s first industrial Battery Energy Storage System (125kW/241kWh) integrated with solar at Horana, aiming to cut peak costs and protect grid stability. Clean Energy in Education: Hayleys Solar handed over a 90kW rooftop solar system to the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, boosting energy efficiency and lowering carbon footprint. Wind Power Milestone: HayWind says all 10 turbines for its 50MW Mannar wind farm have arrived in Sri Lanka and is moving into installation and commissioning readiness. Prison Violence: Negombo Prison saw a clash between inmate groups linked to drug trafficking, leaving two dead and 30 injured; STF deployed and security plans tightened. Dengue Response: A new 24/7 hotline (0117 966 366) was launched to report mosquito-breeding premises, alongside targeted control in 23 Western Province zones as cases pass 59,638 with 39 deaths. Finance Watch: CBSL extended for six months the suspension of Perpetual Treasuries Limited as a Primary Dealer while investigations continue. Cricket (WI vs SL): West Indies ended day three at 318-4, trailing Sri Lanka’s 549-9 declared by 231, with Shai Hope and Justin Greaves unbeaten.

Akuregoda Double Murder: A key suspect in the Feb 13 Akuregoda killings—an attorney and his wife—was extradited from the Maldives and arrested on arrival at BIA, with police alleging he drove the getaway vehicle used in the shooting. Prison Violence: Negombo Prison saw a clash between inmate groups leaving 16 injured; the STF was deployed to restore order. Public Safety: Police report 75 drowning deaths so far this year, urging people to avoid unsafe bathing and swimming spots. Health & Rights: The Independent National Commission on Women briefed the Prime Minister on operationalising the Women Empowerment Act, while HRCSL said withholding A/L results from Muslim candidates over hijab violated rights. Women’s Cricket: Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Marizanne Kapp are shortlisted for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament ahead of Sunday’s final at Lord’s. Sports (Sri Lanka cricket): West Indies’ Jayden Seales said Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first in the second Test was “brave,” as Sri Lanka declared at 549/9 and West Indies reached 58/1 in reply. Infrastructure: CPC says a fuel station will be built on Delft Island for the first time, after the foundation stone was laid.

Sri Lanka vs West Indies (2nd Test): Sonal Dinusha (92) and Kusal Mendis (69) powered Sri Lanka to 549-9 declared on day two in Antigua, after a 143-run sixth-wicket stand. West Indies closed on 58-1, still 491 behind, with John Campbell 31 and Kavem Hodge 6 not out. Pakistan–Sri Lanka Defence Dialogue: The 6th armed forces defence talks wrapped up in Colombo, with both sides agreeing to expand cooperation on maritime security, counterterrorism, training and disaster management. China EXIM expressway push: A China EXIM Bank team met Sri Lanka’s finance officials to expedite the revised Central Expressway (CEP-I) Section I deal, aiming to sign amended terms by end-August 2026. Dengue crackdown (Western Province): A special eradication programme begins July 5 across 23 high-risk zones in the Western Province, as cases rise to 58,810 with 39 deaths reported. Crime update: Police arrested a 23-year-old suspect at Katunayake airport linked to the Akuregoda double murder, believed to be the driver of the gunmen’s vehicle. Food prices easing: Restaurant owners cut prices after the LP gas reduction, including Rs. 15 off rice, fried rice and kottu, and Rs. 5 off tea and some short eats.

Dengue Watch: Sri Lanka’s dengue situation is worsening, with 3,422 cases reported in the first days of July and total cases rising to 58,810; the death toll has climbed to 39, prompting a special dengue prevention operation starting tomorrow across 23 high-risk zones in the Western Province. Public Health & Safety: The government also plans to introduce drug testing kits through pharmacies so parents can privately check for drug involvement, alongside a wider national anti-drug push focused on schools. Food Prices: With domestic LP gas prices cut, the All Ceylon Restaurant Owners’ Association says it will reduce prices from midnight, including Rs. 15 off rice packet, fried rice and kottu, and Rs. 5 off plain tea and milk tea. Environment: A national programme is being launched to prepare a new National Action Plan for human-elephant coexistence, including restoring elephant corridors and creating enrichment zones. Economy & Trade: Customs revenue for the first six months of 2026 has exceeded its target by 30%, reaching Rs. 1,373.7 billion. Sports: India A’s Sai Sudharsan hit an unbeaten 104 as India A replied strongly against Sri Lanka A in Galle, while Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Udara made 188 on day one of the West Indies Test.

Cricket—West Indies vs Sri Lanka (2nd Test): Lahiru Udara struck a maiden Test century and shared a 215-run stand with Kamindu Mendis as Sri Lanka recovered to 338-5 at stumps on day one in Antigua, after early trouble. Court—Navy recruitment case: Former Navy Commander Wasantha Karannagoda was granted bail by the Colombo Chief Magistrate in the Yoshitha Rajapaksa recruitment bribery case, with a foreign travel ban. Human rights—A/L results hijab row: The HRCSL says withholding A/L results of Muslim girls at Zahira College, Trincomalee over hijab rules violated freedom of religion and non-discrimination. Health—Dengue surge: Dengue cases climbed to 57,668 with 36 deaths; authorities launched island-wide mosquito control and urged residents to eliminate breeding sites. Business & tech—Overseas complaints app: SLT-MOBITEL launched “Lankakonect” with the Foreign Affairs Ministry to let Sri Lankans abroad submit and track consular and employment complaints online. Transport & utilities: Kelani Valley train services resume; Litro cut domestic gas prices effective midnight. Digital economy—Uber expands: Uber Eats and Uber Rides launched in Ratnapura.

Injuries & Test pressure: Sri Lanka head into the 2nd Test vs West Indies with a major fitness crisis. Opener Pathum Nissanka has left the squad for wrist surgery in the UK, Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando are ruled out, and offspin allrounder Ramesh Mendis is unavailable after a bacterial infection—forcing changes including seamer Isitha Wijesundara’s Test debut. Central bank crackdown: The CBSL cancelled Nation Lanka Finance PLC’s finance business licence from July 4 and will wind up the firm, with the Deposit Insurance Scheme set to compensate insured depositors up to Rs. 1.1 million. Judiciary & corruption cases: The Colombo Law Society urged President Dissanayake to abandon any move to extend judges’ retirement age, warning it could weaken judicial independence. Separately, former Navy Commander Wasantha Karannagoda was granted bail in the Yoshitha Rajapaksa recruitment-linked corruption probe, while Rakitha Rajapaksa and two others were further remanded. Public health spike: Dengue cases rose to 57,668 with 36 deaths, with Western Province worst hit; authorities renewed mosquito-control calls. Transport & daily life: NTC revised bus fares from July 6, raising the minimum fare to Rs. 34, and Kelani Valley train services resumed after earlier cancellations. Economy & markets: Colombo’s stock market closed lower for a third straight session as foreign selling continued.

UN Accountability: UN reports on Gaza’s children are condemned as offering “little hope” amid rising deaths, injuries and displacement, with Sri Lankan audiences also seeing the Gaza tragedy through the film The Voice of Hind Rajab. Economic Push: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says Sri Lanka aims for 7–8% growth, urging IT and electrical/electronics investors to help unlock exports, while planning Rs. 2 trillion in next year’s capital spending. Disaster Relief: Cyclone Ditwah compensation is still stuck for thousands on waiting lists, even as the state says most households received house-cleaning and restoration payments. Energy Transition: Industry voices stress Sri Lanka needs clear technical standards for renewables and 250MW battery storage to build investor confidence. Dengue & Drugs: Dengue-fighting efforts continue as cases surge, while the government highlights drug prevention programmes in schools and notes around 70% of prisoners are linked to narcotic addiction. India-Sri Lanka Cricket: India’s two Tests in Sri Lanka are set for Aug 15–27 (Galle and Colombo), while West Indies target a series-clinching win in the ongoing Test against Sri Lanka. Sports Legal News: West Indies Academy batsman Shaqkere Parris gets bail in Antigua after a battery charge.

Public Finance & Fraud: A fake Inland Revenue officer, allegedly impersonating “Jayatissa Bandara” to scam taxpayers, was arrested in Galgamuwa and produced before court after a complaint by the IRD. Public Sector Pay: President Anura Dissanayake’s newly formed Salary and Pension Commission began work, aiming to fix long-running salary anomalies and pension issues in the public service. Digital Services in Colombo: All 13 Colombo divisional secretariats rolled out credit/debit card payments for selected services, with POS machines launched at key offices. Economy Watch: The World Bank upgraded Sri Lanka to upper-middle-income status, calling it a “story of recovery” after 2022, but warning risks remain due to debt and slower growth. World Bank Support: The Bank approved a $150m REGROW reforms package to cut trade barriers, improve the investment climate, strengthen the financial sector, and support women’s employment. Health: Dengue continues to disrupt campuses, with the University of Visual and Performing Arts in Colombo temporarily shut after cases among students. Sports: Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed India’s two-Test WTC series in August—Galle (Aug 15-19) and Colombo (Aug 23-27).

Dengue Crisis: Sri Lanka reported 1,217 dengue patients in the last 24 hours, taking the island total to 55,409, with 32 deaths so far this year; authorities are rolling out another three-day mosquito control programme starting tomorrow. Transport Costs: The National Transport Commission says bus fares will be revised from July 6, with ordinary routes under 100 km up 12% and over 100 km up 20%, alongside increases for luxury services. Emergency Status: Cabinet has decided the State of Public Emergency will not be extended beyond this month, after it was first declared following Cyclone Ditwah in late 2025. Economy Milestone: Sri Lanka has been upgraded to the World Bank’s upper-middle-income status, a symbolic rebound marker valid through June 2027. Navy Leadership: Vice Admiral Damian Fernando assumed duties as the 27th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, with outgoing Commander Kanchana Banagoda promoted to Admiral. Business & Mobility: CEAT Kelani won “Best Tyre Manufacturer” at Sri Lanka’s inaugural Automobile Industry Awards; Senok delivered a Foton Tunland G7 double-cab fleet to NEM Constructions; Sterling launched its EV drive with Livan and Henrey models; Browns secured the first Overseas Manufacturing Authorisation from SLSI for motorcycle battery imports. Digital Policy: Sri Lanka is consulting on a hybrid sovereign cloud approach to keep sensitive government and financial data within local legal boundaries. Markets: Colombo Stock Exchange ended a delayed, shortened session mixed, with ASPI slightly down and SL20 marginally up.

El Niño Preparedness: Sri Lanka’s government says there’s a 63% chance of a strong El Niño and has ordered ministries to draft plans for food, water and energy within two weeks, with the Meteorology Department set to issue updates. Economy & Trade: The World Bank approved US$150m to back Sri Lanka’s reform push for growth, jobs and competitiveness, while the Central Bank reported a May current account deficit of US$194m driven by a wider trade gap and weaker services. Disaster Recovery: The ADB also approved US$200m emergency assistance for Cyclone Ditwah recovery, targeting roads, irrigation, livelihoods and housing. Governance & Courts: In the Easter bombings probe, a magistrate ordered former SIS chief Suresh Sallay to hand over phone and computer passwords to the CID, and a separate court bid seeks to widen the legal fight around detention powers. Public Services: Cabinet approved ending the cyclone-related state of emergency after this month, plus a 2027 student shoe voucher programme and a Rabies Eradication and Dog Registration Bill. Transport & Daily Life: Bus fares are set for revision after fuel price changes, and unions say Talaimannar train services still haven’t resumed despite repairs. Sports & Culture: Sri Lanka hosts New Zealand in a netball friendly series in Galle; and mountaineer Johann Peries reached Denali’s summit, leaving only Aconcagua to complete the Seven Summits.

Dengue Crisis: Sri Lanka’s dengue surge is pushing hospitals toward full capacity, with medical experts warning against self-diagnosis and urging people to seek care early as cases top 53,000 and deaths rise. Public Health & Prevention: Commentators say the country keeps reacting after outbreaks instead of starting mosquito-control and awareness before the monsoon, calling for consistent action and accountability. Governance & Reform: The IMF says Sri Lanka remains vulnerable to external shocks and must stay on track with reforms, protect the poorest, and rebuild reserves. Customs Overhaul: Government confirms para-tariff phase-out will begin in 2028 under a Customs modernisation drive focused on transparency, automation and leak-proof revenue collection. Climate Resilience: Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa urges science-based disaster preparedness for the 2026–27 El Niño cycle, while Sri Lanka reiterates a push for 70% renewable energy by 2030. Road Safety: Police announce tougher action on reckless driving, including criminal prosecution for serious offenders. Politics & Accountability: A leaked audio clip is being linked to allegations of an underworld–political nexus reaching into detention and charges. Business & Services: People’s Bank marks World MSME Day with a trade fair in Kurunegala, with plans for more regional events. Sports: West Indies’ batting turnaround is credited to coach Floyd Reifer ahead of their Test dominance over Sri Lanka.