In a significant blow to drug trafficking operations, the Sri Lanka Navy recently seized a substantial quantity of narcotics, including Crystal Methamphetamine (ICE) and heroin, with an estimated street value surpassing Rs. 3.7 billion. This successful operation, conducted approximately 133 nautical miles off the coast of Dondra, underscores the Navy’s unwavering commitment to combatting illicit activities within Sri Lanka’s maritime borders.
The seizure, a result of a meticulously planned intelligence operation, saw the interception of a local multi-day fishing trawler carrying six individuals suspected of being involved in drug trafficking. Additionally, another local one-day fishing trawler with four persons was apprehended, believed to be awaiting a mid-sea exchange of narcotics. The Sri Lanka Coast Guard Ship (SLCG) Samudraraksha played a pivotal role in facilitating these arrests and confiscations.
Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, personally inspected the seized consignment upon its arrival at the Galle Harbour. The haul, concealed within 17 sacks aboard the multi-day fishing trawler, included significant quantities of Crystal Methamphetamine and heroin. Further inspection at the harbor led to the discovery of 17 more sacks containing illicit substances.
The Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard’s proactive approach to patrolling and conducting search operations along the country’s coastline has proven instrumental in intercepting and thwarting illegal activities, particularly drug trafficking via maritime routes. This latest seizure adds to the Navy’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s waters and protect its citizens from the harmful effects of narcotics.
The individuals apprehended in connection with this operation, ranging in age from 23 to 54 years old, hail from various areas including Weligama, Imaduwa, and Galle. Their arrest and the seizure of the narcotics have been handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) for further legal action.
Notably, the Sri Lanka Navy’s diligence in combating drug trafficking extends beyond this single operation. With the total street value of seized drugs in 2024 alone surpassing Rs. 9.3 billion, it is evident that the Navy remains at the forefront of efforts to disrupt and dismantle illicit drug networks operating within Sri Lanka’s maritime domain.
The successful outcome of this recent operation serves as a testament to the Sri Lanka Navy’s capabilities and determination in safeguarding the nation’s territorial waters and upholding the rule of law. As they continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and international partners, the Navy remains steadfast in its mission to combat drug trafficking and protect the well-being of Sri Lanka’s citizens.
