Tangalle, Sri Lanka – September 22
In one of the most significant narcotics operations of the year, Sri Lankan police have seized a staggering 245 kilograms of heroin and 380 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (‘Ice’) from three lorries in the coastal town of Tangalle today.
Discovery at Seenimodara
The operation began this morning in Seenimodara, Tangalle, when police discovered the bodies of two individuals inside an abandoned house undergoing renovation. A suspicious lorry parked at the premises was searched, leading to the discovery of more than 10 kilograms of ‘Ice’ concealed within.
A smaller lorry parked nearby was also inspected, yielding 10 packets of the same narcotic substance, further deepening suspicions of an organized trafficking operation.
Larger Haul Found in Lorry
Subsequent investigations revealed a much larger stockpile. Authorities uncovered hundreds of kilograms of heroin and Ice concealed in a third, larger lorry. Police confirmed that this vehicle contained the bulk of the narcotics, exceeding 200 kilograms in total weight.
Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG) for the Southern Province, Kithsiri Jayalath, stated that the massive cache had been carefully hidden within the lorry, indicating a highly sophisticated smuggling operation.
Firearms Seized
Adding to concerns of organized crime links, police also recovered five pistols and a T-56 assault rifle from the seized vehicles. Authorities believe these weapons may have been intended for protection of the drug shipments or connected criminal activities.
Ongoing Investigations
The haul highlights the continuing challenge Sri Lanka faces in combating large-scale narcotics trafficking. Police sources confirmed that further investigations are underway to trace the network behind the operation and identify possible international links.
Officials have described the bust as a major victory in the ongoing fight against organized crime and drug smuggling in the Southern Province.
