Authorities at Bandaranaike International Airport have arrested an Indian man attempting to bring over 44,000 illegal cigarettes into Sri Lanka following an intelligence-led operation.
Officers from the Police Narcotics Bureau's Katunayake Airport Sub-Unit arrested a 35-year-old Indian national at the airport's arrival terminal on the night of August 13, according to a police statement. The suspect was found in possession of 220 cartons containing approximately 44,000 foreign cigarettes that had been illegally transported into the country.
The arrest followed a tip-off that prompted authorities to conduct a targeted operation at the facility. Officials intercepted the consignment during routine checks at the arrival area, preventing the contraband from entering the local market.
The Police Narcotics Bureau's Airport Unit has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the smuggling attempt. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the illegal importation, including potential links to organized smuggling networks and the intended distribution channels within Sri Lanka.
