On November 16, 2024, the Sri Lanka Navy intercepted a local multi-day fishing trawler about 110 nautical miles (200 km) west of the island, suspected of being involved in narcotics smuggling. The operation, led by SLNS Nandimithra, resulted in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of a substantial heroin haul.
The Navy launched the operation after receiving intelligence on a possible narcotics shipment. Upon boarding the fishing trawler, the naval team discovered two sacks containing 40 parcels of heroin, weighing a total of 46 kg and 116 grams. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated to be over Rs. 1152 million.
The five suspects, ranging from 23 to 33 years old, are residents of the Gandara area. They were arrested and escorted to Galle Harbour, where a detailed inspection was conducted, confirming the presence of the drugs hidden inside the sacks.
Following the inspection, the suspects and the contraband, along with the trawler, were handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for further investigation and legal action. The Navy’s swift and decisive operation highlights the ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in Sri Lankan waters.
