The Sri Lanka Navy seizures over 46kg of heroin, valued at more than Rs. 1,152 million, from a local fishing trawler intercepted on the high seas. The operation took place approximately 110 nautical miles (200km) west of Sri Lanka.

The navy’s special operation, carried out by SLNS Nandimithra, led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with the illicit drug trafficking. Following the interception, the fishing trawler was escorted to Galle Harbour, where a detailed inspection revealed 40 parcels of heroin, weighing approximately 46kg and 116g, concealed in two sacks.

The Navy had launched the operation on the basis of intelligence received, successfully apprehending the suspects, aged between 23 and 33, from the Gandara area. The suspects, along with the confiscated heroin and the fishing trawler, will be handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau for further legal action.

This operation adds to the Sri Lanka Navy’s efforts in curbing drug trafficking, with narcotics worth over Rs. 18,790 million seized in 2024 alone.