The Sri Lanka Navy has seized approximately 52–60 kg of heroin and more than 50 kg of crystal methamphetamine (‘Ice’) from a local multi-day fishing trawler intercepted in the high seas off Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retd.) Aruna Jayasekara stated that the narcotics seized from the vessel are estimated to be worth more than Rs. 1.5 billion.

The Deputy Minister made this statement today (13) while inspecting the vessel after it was brought to the Galle Fisheries Harbour.

Speaking to media, he further stated that the total weight of the seized narcotics exceeds 110 kg, while investigations into the consignment are ongoing.

Commenting further on the operation, Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retd.) Aruna Jayasekara stated:

"The Navy has apprehended a group of fishermen operating out of the Mirissa Fisheries Harbour. Five suspects were taken into custody along with the vessel. According to the information currently available, the Police Narcotics Bureau has confirmed through tests that the consignment contains close to 60 kg of heroin and more than 50 kg of crystal methamphetamine ('Ice'). In total, more than 110 kg of narcotics have been seized. Based on their estimated street value, the consignment is currently valued at over Rs. 1.5 billion. However, this estimate may change as investigations continue."

The vessel was intercepted during a joint operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy and an intelligence unit in the early hours of November 11.

The trawler and its five crew members were taken into custody during the operation.

A total of 102 packets of narcotics, concealed in six sacks aboard the vessel, were discovered during a subsequent search. The consignment comprised 52 packets of heroin and 50 packets of ‘Ice’.