Rs. 57 Million in Suspected Drug Assets Frozen

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A court order has been issued to freeze several properties allegedly acquired using proceeds from drug trafficking by a woman residing in the Pubudugama, Uswetakeiyawa area.The order was granted after facts relating to the suspect were presented before the Welisara Magistrate's Court yesterday under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.Among the assets frozen for a period of seven days is a two-storey house valued at approximately Rs. 50 million, constructed on a 20-perch plot of land in Pubudugama, Uswetakeiyawa. Also included is a house and commercial premises built on a 9.5-perch plot of land in Kunjawatta, Nugape, Wattala, estimated to be worth around Rs. 7 million.Investigators revealed that evidence gathered during the inquiry indicates that the properties were allegedly constructed using funds generated through drug trafficking activities.The investigation was launched by the Illegal Assets Investigation Division following a complaint received regarding the suspect's financial activities and asset acquisitions.Authorities said the suspect has fled the area and remains at large. The Illegal Assets Investigation Division is continuing investigations and has initiated efforts to locate and arrest her.