Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has called on the fishing community to support authorities in efforts to combat drug trafficking, warning that the drug menace has become a serious social issue in Sri Lanka.
Speaking at a ceremony held at St. Lazarus Church in Bandarawatta, Beruwala, today, Cardinal Ranjith expressed concern over the use of maritime routes to smuggle narcotics into the country.
He said organised criminal groups were using multi-day fishing vessels and other boats to transport illegal drugs.
The Cardinal urged fishermen not to become involved in drug trafficking or assist those engaged in the illegal trade, regardless of the financial benefits offered to them.
He called on the fishing community to remain vigilant and provide information to law enforcement authorities about suspicious activities at sea.
