• Six individuals aboard the vessel were arrested

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

The Sri Lanka Navy and the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) intercepted a multi-day fishing trawler off the southern coast of the island, recovering approximately 300kg of heroin and crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as ‘Ice.’   

The operation, executed on Thursday night, resulted in the arrest of six individuals who were aboard the vessel, believed to be involved in the illicit drug trade.   Following the interception, the fishing trawler, along with the substantial drug haul and the detained suspects, was impounded and brought ashore to the Galle Harbour yesterday morning.   The navy suspects that this multi-day trawler belongs to a person from Hapugala area.   
It was reported that the suspects who were on board the trawler were bringing narcotic drugs obtained from the sea.   

The Sri Lanka Navy and the Police Narcotics Bureau are currently conducting further investigations into the incident.   

The Navy has been collaborating closely with the Police, Police Narcotic Bureau, State Intelligence Service, and STF, actively sharing information during anti-drug operations.   

Accordingly, operations conducted during 2023 led to the arrest of 343 persons, both local and foreign, involved in a wide array of illegal acts, including smuggling of narcotics, prescription drugs, and contraband as well as human smuggling.