A tragic incident in the Madurupitiya area of Meerigama has claimed the life of one youth, while another remains missing after three young men were swept away by strong currents while swimming in the Ma Oya.
Local residents responded quickly and managed to rescue two of the youths from the river. They were taken to Dambadeniya Hospital for emergency treatment. However, a 19-year-old from Meerigama later succumbed to injuries despite medical efforts.
The third youth is still missing, and a search operation is underway involving Meerigama Police, the Police Life-Saving Unit and local volunteers. Authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution when bathing or swimming in rivers, particularly during periods when strong currents and changing water conditions pose increased risks. The search for the missing youth is continuing.
