Police Headquarters has reportedly initiated steps to transfer six officers attached to the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB), including Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Ranmal Codippily, following controversy surrounding the seizure of a large consignment of crystal methamphetamine at the Colombo Port.
According to reports, the transfers were prompted by alleged misconduct and disagreements that occurred during the operation involving the suspected drug shipment.
The officers reportedly include PNB DIG Ranmal Codippily, DIG Asoka Dharmasena, two Assistant Superintendents of Police and a police station commander. Formal approval from the National Police Commission is reportedly being sought for the transfers.
The controversy centres on a container that had arrived from Pakistan and remained at the Colombo Port for several weeks. The container was suspected of containing crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “ICE.”
The investigation was initially assigned to the Police Narcotics Bureau following intelligence received by DIG Codippily. The PNB subsequently informed Sri Lanka Customs and the courts regarding the suspected shipment.
However, allegations were raised that the investigation was progressing slowly. During this period, the Police Central Crime Investigation Bureau reportedly began a separate investigation into the container.
It was reported that the Central Crime Investigation Bureau subsequently notified Customs, obtained a court order and opened the container. Authorities reportedly discovered 467 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine concealed inside.
Seven suspects, including two Pakistani nationals, were subsequently arrested in connection with the alleged drug-trafficking operation.
