A Sri Lankan multi-day fishing vessel carrying over 300 kilograms of heroin was seized by the Navy in deep seas off Beruwala, following a tip-off from foreign intelligence sources.
The vessel was escorted to the Dikowita Fisheries Harbour this morning (01). During a search operation, naval personnel discovered the narcotics hidden in 298 bags, according to Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.
Six suspects on board the vessel were taken into custody along with communication equipment used in the operation. The total street value of the seized heroin is estimated to be around Rs. 6,000 million.
Naval Operations Against Drug Trafficking Intensify
Over the past year, the Sri Lanka Navy, in coordination with the Coast Guard, has intensified operations targeting drug trafficking networks. As a result, several multi-day fishing vessels transporting narcotics have been intercepted both in international waters and within Sri Lanka’s territorial waters.
Authorities note that many of these vessels are being used as key supply routes by organized drug networks. Investigations have also been launched into the owners of the vessels and the wider criminal networks involved.
So far this year, the total quantity of drugs seized has reached several thousand kilograms. In addition to heroin, large consignments of crystal methamphetamine (ice) and Kerala cannabis have also been recovered.
The Navy attributes its recent success to enhanced cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies and the Sri Lanka Police Narcotics Bureau, which has significantly strengthened efforts to combat large-scale drug trafficking.
Over One Ton of Heroin and Ice Found Floating Near Tangalle=
