Navy intercepts fishing trawler with over 191kg of heroin and crystal methamphetamine valued over Rs. 2572 million, six (06) apprehended

In another successful operation of the Sri Lanka Navy, on receipt of information to Naval Intelligence, a local multi-day fishing trawler (01) carrying a large haul of narcotics, with 06 suspects aboard, was intercepted on the high seas about 120 (about 222 km) off Colombo on 24th June 2024. The operation, carried out by deploying SLNS Nandimithra, resulted in the seizure of more than 191kg of heroin and crystal methamphetamine (ICE), including their packaging. Meanwhile, the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera arrived at the Dikovita Fisheries Harbour today (26th June) to inspect the consignment of narcotics brought ashore.

The Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard regularly patrol and conduct search operations along the island's coast to prevent illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, stemming via sea routes.

During this dedicated operation, based on naval intelligence, a suspicious multi-day fishing trawler, which was about 120 nautical miles (222 km) off the west coast of the island, was intercepted and searched by SLNS Nandimithra. The subsequent search of the trawler resulted in the recovery of 08 sacks suspected to be heroin and crystal methamphetamine and apprehension of 06 suspects in connection to the smuggling racket on 24th June. As a result, the trawler carrying narcotics and its suspects were apprehended by the Navy and escorted to shore.

During a thorough search of the trawler at the Dikovita Fisheries Harbour this morning (26th June), authorities seized a consignment of heroin in 45 parcels weighing approximately 48kg and 880g (including packages) as well as crystal methamphetamine in 137 parcels weighing approximately 142kg and 184g (including packages). Meanwhile, the gross street value of the narcotics seized in this operation is believed to exceed Rs. 2572 million.

The individuals held in the operation are known to reside in the Chilaw, Iranawila and Thoduwawa areas, ranging in age from 25 to 68 years old. The consignment of narcotics along with the suspects and the trawler was handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for onward legal action.

The Sri Lanka Navy plays a pivotal role under the able leadership of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera who is also the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force to Combat the Use of Poisonous and Dangerous Drugs, continuing operations to apprehend drug smugglers. During anti-narcotic operations conducted so far in the year 2024, the Navy has been able to seize narcotics, including about 1000kg of heroin and crystal methamphetamine, valued at over Rs. 15782 million street value and has handed over those substances to authorities for legal proceedings.

It is in this backdrop, the Navy is urging the public to share information regarding individuals involved in drug smuggling, posing as fishermen, with the Navy or law enforcement authorities, as they strive to help protect the future generations of the country from the harmful impact of narcotic-related activities.