A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy off Sinnaarichchalai, Kalpitiya on the night of 18th May 2023, led to the apprehension of 02 suspects with about 193kg (wet weight) of dried sea cucumber and several other contraband items being smuggled. The Navy also seized a dinghy used by the suspects, for this illegal act.

Based on information derived from a coordinated intelligence operation conducted by the State Intelligence Service and Sri Lanka Navy, a local multiday fishing trawler carrying about 111kg and 606g of heroin (including packages) and about 10kg and 254g (including packages) of hashish was intercepted by SLNS Vijayabahu on 13th May 2023. The special operation mounted about 413 nautical miles (about 764km) off Dondra, South of Sri Lanka, also led to the apprehension of 06 suspects involved in this illegal act. The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, arrived at the Colombo Harbour this morning (18th May) to personally inspect the seized consignment.