Navy seizes multi-day fishing trawler with heroin and hashish valued at about Rs. 2800 Mn and nabs 06 suspects in southern seas

Based on information derived from a coordinated intelligence operation conducted by the State Intelligence Service and Sri Lanka Navy, a local multi day fishing trawler carrying about 111kg and 606g of heroin (including packages) and about 10kg and 254g (including packages) of hashish was intercepted by SLNS Vijayabahu on 13th May 2023. The special operation mounted about 413 nautical miles (about 764km) off Dondra, South of Sri Lanka, also led to the apprehension of 06 suspects involved in this illegal act. The street value of the seized consignment of drugs is believed to be around Rs 2800 million.

The suspects apprehended in this operation have been identified as residents of Negombo, Iranawila, Andigama and Minuwangoda areas between 29 to 58 years of age. The suspects and the stock of heroin will be handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for onward legal action.

Including the latest seizure, the Sri Lanka Navy has held drugs with a gross street value of over Rs. 7603 million during operations mounted in 2023.