Sri Lankan authorities are investigating suspected links between wanted drug kingpin Shiran Basik and international criminal and terrorist networks following his return to the country from Dubai.
Sri Lankan authorities are investigating suspected links between wanted drug kingpin Shiran Basik and international criminal and terrorist networks following his return to the country from Dubai.
Basik, who was wanted under an Interpol Red Notice, was deported from Dubai and brought to Sri Lanka on August 14, according to police. He is a resident of the Dehiwala area and had been living abroad while evading local law enforcement.
Following his arrival, Sri Lankan police obtained a court order to detain and question him for 72 hours as investigations continue into several serious allegations. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is conducting further inquiries into his alleged activities.
Police investigations have linked Basik to organised criminal activity, including alleged large-scale narcotics trafficking and the possession of firearms. Authorities are also examining his suspected connections with international criminal and terrorist networks.
The Illegal Assets Investigation Division has separately launched an investigation into properties and other assets allegedly acquired through illicit activities. The inquiry is expected to examine the suspect’s financial dealings and assets believed to have been accumulated during his time abroad.
Police said Basik’s return is part of a wider operation to locate and bring back Sri Lankan fugitives who have fled overseas to avoid facing legal proceedings.
According to police, 93 individuals are being pursued under international Red Notices as part of the operation. With Basik’s return, 92 such suspects remain to be brought back to Sri Lanka.
Police said they will continue working with international law enforcement agencies, embassies and Interpol to locate the remaining fugitives and secure their return to the country.
