News
Peliyagoda-Grandpass police stations’ tug-of-war adds to woes of public seeking help against nighttime robberies at New Kelani Bridge
by Norman Palihawadane
The general public seeking police assistance to combat the spate of nighttime robberies plaguing the new Kelani Bridge face an additional hurdle: an ongoing jurisdictional battle between the Grandpass and Peliyagoda police stations.
Numerous individuals have fallen victim to thefts of mobile phones, jewelry, and cash in recent times on the new Kelani Bridge, perpetrated by a combination of robbers and drug addicts. Despite continuous reports to law enforcement, the absence of CCTV surveillance and a dedicated police post at the location remains conspicuous. Police have been apprised of the ongoing nefarious activities transpiring in and around the vicinity of the new Kelani Bridge.
Complainants who have suffered robberies express their frustration with the discord between the Grandpass and Peliyagoda police stations. This bureaucratic tug of war forces them to shuttle between the two stations in order to file their complaints.
In a recent incident, a school student returning from an LPL cricket match at the Khettarama Stadium fell victim to a brutal assault by robbers. Accompanied by a friend, the student was ambushed by a group of four assailants who demanded their cash and mobile phones. When the students resisted, the robbers launched a physical attack, resulting in one student managing to escape while the other was left beaten and robbed of his wallet and a mobile phone valued at approximately Rs 250,000, according to police reports.
In response to parental complaints, the Grandpass police swiftly acted, conducting a successful raid that led to the apprehension of two suspects. During police questioning, one suspect revealed they had sold the stolen mobile phone for a mere Rs 30,000. Prompt police action resulted in the recovery of the phone and its subsequent return to the rightful owner.
The commendable efforts of SI Jeewantha Shalvin, CDB OIC Nisshanka Wijeratne, and PC Ratnayake (30441), who orchestrated the raid, were praised by Colombo DIG Jagath Chandrakumara.
Highlighting the urgency to address the rising tide of crime, Grandpass OIC HH Harison acknowledged numerous reported robberies in the area. Steps have been taken to combat this menace, including several recent raids resulting in the apprehension of drug addicts and the recovery of contraband heroin, OIC Harrison noted.
Recognizing the multiple police stations responsible for the area in question, OIC Harrison initiated discussions with fellow OICs from neighboring stations. Their collective aim is to formulate a collaborative strategy to eliminate crime and deter further robberies, thereby enhancing public safety in the vicinity.
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“Let us resolve, with renewed determination to overcome obstacles and build a better and more prosperous nation” -PM
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasooriya in her New Year message requested every Sri Lankan to resolve, with renewed determination to overcome obstacles and build a better and more prosperous nation.
The full text of the PM’s message:
“Marking the auspicious transition of the sun from one planet to another, and the arrival of the spring season following the harvest, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrated by the people of Sri Lanka since ancient times, has dawned once again.
The New Year is not merely a festive occasion; it symbolizes a renewal of prosperity, unity, coexistence, and the strengthening of mutual relationships embedded within our cultural values.
On this occasion, I extend my wishes for a peaceful and prosperous Sinhala and Tamil New Year to all Sri Lankans who celebrate this occasion with their families and loved ones, observing customs at the auspicious time.
A unique feature of Sinhala and Tamil New Year is the way an entire nation comes together through a shared set of customs. Despite the demands and challenges of daily life, this season offers a valuable opportunity to move forward with renewed hope as families, communities and a nation.
The true blessing of the New Year lies in setting aside differences and grievances, and embracing a fresh beginning in a spirit of solidarity and goodwill. Especially in the face of ongoing global challenges, the courage, compassion and resilience shown by our people in facing various natural and economic hardships in recent times stand as an example to the world. It is our responsibility to carry forward that collective strength.
At this auspicious moment, I extend my greetings to our fellow Sri Lankans working overseas, who dedicate themselves to securing a better future for their families and for the country. In particular, I extend my thoughts for the safety and well-being of those living in the Middle East during these tumultuous times.
Let us resolve, with renewed determination to overcome obstacles and build a better and more prosperous nation. As we undertake in a significant social and political transformations, we remain committed to striving tirelessly towards a better future.
May this Sinhala and Tamil New Year be blessed with happiness and prosperity!”
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Sun directly overhead Nawaladi, Paranthan, Murasumodai, Vellikkandal, Udapattukkandal, Puliyampokkanei about 12:10 noon today [14]
On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka from the 05th to 15th of April in this year.
The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (14th) are Nawaladi, Paranthan, Murasumodai, Vellikkandal, Udapattukkandal, Puliyampokkanei about 12:10 noon.
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Heat Index at Caution Level in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western and Southern provinces and in Trincomalee district.
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 13 April 2026, valid for 14 April 2026.
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western and Southern provinces and in Trincomalee district.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.

Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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