Navy clamps down on narcotic smuggling, seizes dinghy with cannabis valued over Rs. 41 Mn

During a search operation conducted in the Delft sea area, Jaffna, on the night of 30 Oct 25, the Sri Lanka Navy seized a dinghy carrying approximately 185kg and 600g of cannabis. Two (02) suspects along with the dinghy were also taken into custody during the operation.

In line with the national drive, under the theme “Nation United – National Drive” the Navy continues to play a pivotal role to protect future generations from the drug menace by maintaining continuous surveillance along the island’s coastline and conducting regular anti-narcotic operations.

Acting on vigilant maritime surveillance, a patrol craft attached to SLNS Wasabha of the Northern Naval Command swiftly intercepted this suspicious dinghy off the Delft Island. The search operation led to the seizure of about 185kg and 600g of cannabis packed in 85 packages contained in 06 sacks, delivering a blow to smugglers attempting to exploit northern seas.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Mandativu, Jaffna, aged 25 and 30. The apprehended individuals, together with the stock of cannabis and the dinghy, were handed over to the Delft Police for onward legal action.

The seized narcotics are estimated to have a street value exceeding Rs. 41 million. Notably, through a series of similar operations conducted thus far in 2025, the Navy has seized more than 5267kg of cannabis and handed over them to authorities for onward legal action.