Navy intercepts trawler carrying over 53kg of heroin and nabs 05 suspects in southern seas
Acting on credible information, the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended five (05) suspects along with a local multi-day fishing trawler during a search operation in the southern seas, on suspicion of smuggling narcotics.
The trawler was escorted to the Galle Harbour today (17 Oct 25), where an investigation by the Police Narcotic Bureau (PNB) uncovered approximately 53kg and 134g of heroin concealed in two sacks on board. Subsequently, the narcotics, the suspects, and the trawler were handed over to the PNB for onward legal proceedings.
In keeping with the government’s vision of “A drug-free country - A healthier citizen life” the Sri Lanka Navy and the Coast Guard, together with local and foreign intelligence services and law enforcement agencies, have strengthened their anti-narcotic operations across the island. This coordinated effort aims to bring drug traffickers to justice and protect the nation’s future generation from the grave social threat posed by narcotics.
Based on reliable information, the Sri Lanka Navy, with support from the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, intercepted this local multi-day fishing vessel in southern seas after a multi-day surveillance effort.
Speaking to the media, the Commander Southern Naval Area Rear Admiral Kosala Warnakulasooriya detailed the strategic approach behind the drug interdiction. He highlighted that through intensive operations leveraging modern technological assets and conducted in close coordination with partner agencies, the Navy has been able to carry out the operations effectively. This effort, he noted, is continuously supported by the advice and guidance of the Ministry of Defence. He also emphasized the Navy's unwavering resolve to apprehend those involved in drug trafficking under the guise of fishing and urged all fishers to refrain from any involvement in or support of the narcotics trade.
The 05 suspects along with 53kg and 134g of heroin and the fishing trawler were handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for onward legal action.
