’Anti-Narcotic Command’ in the offing to combat influx of drugs: Sagala -

An 'Anti-Narcotic Command' will be established soon to combat the influx of drugs from foreign nations into Sri Lanka, Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and President's Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayaka said.

This initiative will empower the country’s armed forces and the State Intelligence Service to collaborate with international intelligence agencies in conducting necessary operations, he said.

Sagala Ratnayaka conveyed these insights today (24) while inspecting the 200 kilograms of heroin valued at Rs. 4 billion, which was intercepted on the high seas and brought to the Colombo port yesterday.

Based on data obtained from a collaborative mission involving the Sri Lanka Navy and the Police Narcotics Bureau, the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Ship ‘Samudraraksha’ was dispatched on a deep-sea mission approximately 91 nautical miles (168 km) to the west of Galle. During this operation, a shipment of heroin was intercepted and subsequently transported to the port of Colombo.

Ratnayake emphasized that the drafting of essential legislation to create this ‘Anti-Narcotic Command’ is currently underway and will soon be presented to Parliament.

Furthermore, Ratnayaka underscored that while 65% of the drug raids result in arrests, the remaining 35% continues to infiltrate the country. He stressed the urgency of implementing a modern programme aimed at entirely preventing the entry of drugs into the country.

"First and foremost, I extend my congratulations to both the Navy and the Police Narcotics Bureau for successfully apprehending 200 kilograms of heroin. Remarkably, this marks the second substantial drug seizure within a brief span of time.

"The initial operation was executed based on intelligence provided by the Police Narcotics Bureau, while the most recent operation, according to information from the State Intelligence Service, was carried out by the Navy. The widespread global network of drug trafficking necessitates on-going efforts to safeguard our population from this peril.

"In collaboration with the Navy, Police and various government agencies, Sri Lanka actively conducts drug raids. These endeavours result in the apprehension of approximately 65% of drugs attempting to enter the country, with the remaining 35% still make their way in.

"According to the latest intelligence, these drug shipments arrive at the international maritime border via large vessels and are subsequently transported into the country via smaller boats. This expansive drug network poses a significant challenge.

"Furthermore, there is a concerning possibility of arms trafficking intertwined with these drug trades. Vigilance in this regard is paramount, as it could pose a substantial threat to national security. To address these challenges, the development of new legislation is underway, with the creation of an Anti-Narcotic Command in progress. Proposed laws are in preparation and will be presented to Parliament for future implementation," Sagala Ratnayake said.