Walasmulla, September 17, 2025 – Former local government member Sampath Manamperi surrendered to the Walasmulla Magistrate’s Court today, in connection with an ongoing investigation into the possession of chemicals used in the production of Crystal Meth (ICE).
Manamperi was sought by authorities after chemicals linked to ICE manufacturing were discovered recently in Middeniya. The seizure had drawn wide attention due to its alleged connection with organized criminal networks.
Earlier, the Court of Appeal instructed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure Manamperi’s safety upon surrender and to keep investigating officers informed of the court’s directions.
Investigators revealed that the chemicals found in Middeniya are tied to underworld figures recently arrested in Indonesia, suggesting cross-border links in the illicit drug trade.
The case highlights growing concerns over the expansion of synthetic drug operations in Sri Lanka, with authorities under pressure to dismantle supply networks and trace their international connections.
