USS Gettysburg Returns After SOUTHCOM Deployment

The guided‑missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG‑64) returned to Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia on March 23, 2026, after completing a five‑month deployment in support of U.S. Southern Command missions.

Moreover, the ship’s return marked the end of its extended operations in the Caribbean Sea and surrounding waters, where it supported regional security and counter‑narcotics efforts.

Notably, the Ticonderoga‑class cruiser left Norfolk in late October 2025 as part of a broader initiative known as Operation Southern Spear, a U.S. Southern Command mission focused on combating illicit trafficking and enhancing maritime security across the Western Hemisphere.

While deployed, USS Gettysburg and its crew worked alongside other U.S. naval forces to maintain stability in key sea lanes, deter transnational criminal activity, and support Joint Task Force operations in the region.

Families and friends gathered at the pier to welcome the sailors home, celebrating the ship’s safe return after months at sea.

In addition, the cruiser’s operations contributed to broader Southern Command objectives, which included disrupting narcotics trafficking and enhancing regional cooperation with partner nations.

Mullaitivu Theft: Five Arrested

Mullaitivu police arrested five suspects, including a woman, for a high-value theft in Mandhuvil last October. Notably, the suspects broke into a private residence and stole jewelry and cash worth approximately LKR 5.6 million.

Meanwhile, the investigation began after authorities traced a stolen mobile phone linked to the crime. Subsequently, with approval from the Mullaitivu magistrate, police first arrested a female suspect. During questioning, she provided crucial information, which led officers to arrest four more individuals.

Additionally, police recovered several stolen items, including a vehicle purchased with the stolen money, two engines, and other high-value possessions. Furthermore, authorities confirmed that all recovered items matched the inventory of goods reported stolen from the Mandhuvil residence.

This operation demonstrates Mullaitivu police’s dedication to combating organized theft. Therefore, officers urged citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and secure high-value items in their homes.

Moreover, the case highlights the effectiveness of modern investigative techniques, such as mobile tracking and community cooperation, in solving serious crimes in Sri Lanka. As a result, the community can trust that police are actively protecting residents and their property.

Ampara District Coordination Committee Decisions.

The Ampara District Coordination Committee meeting took place today, March 26, 2026, under the coordination of District Secretary Anupama Mangala Wickramarachchi. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Ministers of Rural Development, Social Protection, and Social Empowerment Vasantha Piyathissa, along with Eastern Province Governor Professor Jayantha Lal Ratnasiri. During the session, officials discussed ongoing district development projects and addressed public concerns. Parliamentarian Ashraf Tahir proposed several initiatives for local infrastructure improvement.

The committee approved key decisions, including the removal of soil deposits above the Kaliyodai Bridge, reconstruction of the damaged left bank (north side) of the Kaliyodai River, and construction of permanent protective structures. Additionally, LKR 300 million had been allocated in the 2026 Budget for the restoration of Nindavur Cultural Hall under the guidance of the President.

Further discussions addressed prior projects, such as the construction of a worship hall and a three-storey classroom block at Al-Madina Maha Vidyalaya, Nindavur, with the committee approving the continuation and completion of these initiatives.

The meeting included representatives from Ampara District, including MPs M.S. Udumalappai, M.S. Abdul Wasith, Ashraf Tahir, K. Kodiswaran, Abubakkar Athampawa, Manjul Sukath Ratnayake, A.M.M.M. Rathwatte, Attorney Priyant Wijerathna, along with local government leaders, divisional secretaries, and heads of government departments. The participation of these officials ensured comprehensive discussion and approval of development priorities for the district.