• »
  • Coordinated naval operation intercepts 02 local fishing trawlers smuggling a large haul of methamphetamine and heroin, with 11 suspects

Coordinated naval operation intercepts 02 local fishing trawlers smuggling a large haul of methamphetamine and heroin, with 11 suspects

Acting on credible information, the Sri Lanka Navy launched a special operation on the high seas off the southern coast, apprehending 11 suspects along with 02 local multi-day fishing trawlers, involved in smuggling of narcotics. The operation was mounted in collaboration with the State Intelligence Service, the Police Narcotic Bureau (PNB) and the Regional Coordination Operation Centres. The drug-laden trawlers and suspects were escorted this morning (28 May 25) to the Dikovita Fisheries Harbour where the Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), along with the Commander of the Navy and the Acting Inspector General of Police, were present to inspect the seized narcotics.

At Dikovita Fisheries Harbour, further inspection with the assistance of experts from the PNB was carried out and authorities have confirmed that the seized shipment contained approx. 275kg and 594g of heroin and 503kg and 618g of methamphetamine (Ice). Meanwhile, the confiscated narcotics, the suspects, and the multi-day fishing trawlers involved were handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for further legal action today (28 May).

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Minister of Defence stated that security personnel, working alongside domestic and international intelligence services and law enforcement agencies, are conducting synchronized anti-narcotics operations throughout the country. The Deputy Minister also assured that stringent legal measures would be implemented against all individuals connected to drug-related offenses as part of efforts to establish a drug-free society.

Including the recent operation, the Sri Lanka Navy, alongside other agencies, has helped seize over 544kg of heroin and 1,217kg of methamphetamine (Ice) in joint efforts so far in 2025. The Navy remains steadfast in supporting these coordinated operations to safeguard future generations from the scourge of narcotics.