A major stock of illegal Kush drugs smuggled into Sri Lanka has been seized following the arrest of a suspect by officers of the Katunayake Airport Police Narcotics Bureau.
Police said the suspect, a 34-year-old resident of Wattala, had purchased the drugs in Bangkok, Thailand, and used another individual to transport them into Sri Lanka. The consignment was later concealed at his residence. Investigations have revealed that the suspect is a major drug trafficker who had been operating an extensive drug distribution network across the country, using various individuals to smuggle narcotics from overseas.
According to police, the suitcase containing the drugs was sent to Sri Lanka on the 13th, removed from the Katunayake Airport, and transported to the suspect’s house. The suspect himself returned to the country on the 14th carrying only a handbag.
After closely monitoring the operation, officers of the Police Narcotics Bureau raided the suspect’s residence soon after his return and recovered the drug consignment. A total of 21 kilograms and 668 grams of Kush, packed into 20 parcels and concealed in unopened luggage, was taken into custody. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at approximately Rs. 216.68 million.
In addition, police seized Rs. 1,519,000 in cash and USD 4,900 from the suspect’s possession.
The arrested suspect, along with the seized drugs and money, is due to be produced before the Welisara Magistrate’s Court today.
