• Russian duo saved from drowning 

At least five individuals have been injured and admitted to the Ratnapura Teaching Hospital following a head-on collision between a lorry and a van at the Thiriwanaketiya Junction in Ratnapura on Wednesday morning (31). According to individuals at the scene, the condition of several of the injured is critical. The accident occurred at around 5.30 a.m. at the Thiriwanaketiya Junction, when a lorry carrying construction materials, traveling from Ratnapura to Embilipitiya, collided head-on with a van traveling from Monaragala to Horana. The driver of the van sustained serious injuries, while three other passengers in the van were also injured. After colliding with the van, the lorry overturned, resulting in injuries to the lorry assistant, who was also hospitalised. According to area residents, the location is prone to frequent accidents. 

Meanwhile, two Russian nationals who went sea bathing at the Kabalana Beach were rescued after being swept away by strong water currents. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon (30), the Police stated. Several officers attached to the Police Lifeguard Unit of the Ahangama Police Division were involved in the rescue operation. The two rescued Russian nationals are aged 46 and 12.