In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Sri Lanka Navy successfully intercepted a multi-day fishing vessel suspected of drug trafficking in deep waters off Beruwala. Acting on foreign intelligence, naval forces launched a targeted surveillance mission that led to one of the largest heroin seizures in the country’s recent history.
The vessel was escorted to Dikowita Fisheries Harbour, where a comprehensive inspection uncovered more than 300 kilograms of heroin concealed in 298 packages. Authorities estimate the street value of the seized narcotics at approximately 6 billion Sri Lankan rupees.
Six Sri Lankan nationals aboard the vessel were arrested in connection with the smuggling operation. Naval personnel also confiscated several communication devices believed to have been used to coordinate the illicit activity.
Commander of the Navy, Kanchana Banagoda, confirmed the success of the operation, emphasizing its importance in the ongoing fight against international drug trafficking networks. He noted that such coordinated efforts, especially those based on foreign intelligence sharing, are crucial in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime borders.
The Sri Lanka Navy reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime surveillance and continuing its crackdown on illegal trafficking activities in national waters.
