A special five-member police committee, led by SDIG Ajith Rohana, has been appointed to investigate the deadly bus accident in Gerandi Ella, Ramboda, which claimed 22 lives early Sunday (11).

Initial reports suggest the SLTB bus, en route from Kataragama to Kurunegala, was overloaded and the driver may have fallen asleep.

Mechanical failure has been ruled out.

Around 40 injured are receiving treatment across multiple hospitals, with several in critical condition.

Rescue efforts were supported by police, tri-forces, and locals.