Sri Lanka Navy Seizes Over 770 kg of Heroin and Methamphetamine in Major Drug Bust

In a significant anti-narcotics operation, the Sri Lanka Navy, in collaboration with the State Intelligence Service and the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB), intercepted two multi-day fishing trawlers off the southern coast, seizing an estimated 778 kilograms of illegal drugs, including 275 kg of heroin and 503 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ICE). Eleven suspects, all residents of Dondra, were arrested during the operation.

The trawlers, commonly used in maritime trafficking routes, were brought to the Dikovita Fisheries Harbour early Wednesday for further inspection by narcotics experts. The haul marks one of the largest drug seizures in recent months, contributing to over 1,760 kg of narcotics confiscated in Sri Lanka so far this year.

Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), who inspected the seized drugs alongside the Navy Commander and the Acting Inspector General of Police, emphasized the government's firm commitment to eradicating drug trafficking. He assured that stringent legal action will be taken against all individuals involved, underscoring ongoing efforts to build a drug-free society.

The operation was launched based on credible intelligence and coordinated through the Regional Coordination Operation Centres. The Navy highlighted its continued collaboration with local and foreign intelligence agencies to combat the drug menace that exploits Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean as a transit point for international drug syndicates.

The confiscated narcotics, suspects, and vessels have been handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau for further legal proceedings. Authorities reaffirmed their resolve to intensify surveillance and crackdown efforts to prevent drug trafficking and ensure national security.

This latest seizure reflects Sri Lanka’s strengthened maritime enforcement capabilities and its proactive stance against narcotics smuggling, contributing to regional and global drug control initiatives.

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