Sri Lankan authorities have recovered more than 440 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from containers at Colombo Port in a joint operation, with the drug estimated to be worth over Rs. 8 billion. A businessman from Dematagoda has been arrested as investigations continue.
Sri Lankan police have recovered a substantial quantity of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as "Ice," from containers at the Colombo Port in what officials are describing as a major drug trafficking operation. The quantity of the seizure remains subject to ongoing verification, with reports indicating between 420 and 463 kilograms have been recovered so far. According to Deputy Inspector General of Police Ashoka Dharmasena, the narcotics are estimated to be worth more than Rs. 8 billion.
The operation was conducted jointly by the Police Narcotics Bureau, the Central Crime Investigation Bureau, and Sri Lanka Customs based on intelligence received by authorities. Two suspicious containers were identified, inspected, and opened, leading to the discovery of the suspected narcotics. Weighing operations are reportedly still underway, meaning the final quantity may change as investigations progress.
According to police findings reported by NewsFirst, the container originated from Pakistan in June and was allegedly disguised as a towel consignment under the pretext of a re-export operation. The shipment was apparently intended for further transportation to Cameroon. A 44-year-old businessman from Dematagoda has been arrested in connection with the seizure.
Authorities have indicated that investigations are continuing to establish the full origin of the consignment and to identify other individuals involved in the attempted trafficking operation. Police have not yet released additional details regarding the suspect's background or the broader network believed to be connected to the shipment.