Kerala cannabis valued over Rs. 27 million seized with 05 suspects

Separate search operations conducted by the Navy in Vankalei, Mannar and off the Delft Island, Jaffna on 27 and 29 Aug 25 resulted in the seizure of more than 121kg of Kerala cannabis. The operations also led to the apprehension of 05 suspects and 02 dinghies in connection to the smuggling racket.

On 29 August, SLNS Ranawickrama of the Northern Naval Command intercepted 02 suspicious dinghies off Delft Island. The search led to the seizure of approx. 119kg and 500g of Kerala cannabis concealed in four sacks. Four (04) suspects along with the 02 dinghies were taken into naval custody.

In a separate operation on 27 August, SLNS Pussadewa and Gajaba of the North Central Naval Command, working in coordination with the Criminal Investigation Division of the Mannar Police, arrested a suspect in the Vankalai area. The individual was found in possession of 2kg and 300g of Kerala cannabis.

The gross street value of the stock of Kerala cannabis held in these operations is believed to exceed Rs. 27 million.

The suspects held in these operations were identified as residents of Madampe, Kayts and Vankalei areas, from 19 to 51 years of age. The suspects, together with Kerala cannabis and the dinghies were handed over to the Delft and Vankalei Police stations for onward legal action.