Police have discovered about 50,000 kilograms of chemicals used in the production of crystal methamphetamine (ice) hidden at a property in Middeniya, Thalawa, during a raid carried out today (5) by the Western Province North Crimes Division.
Investigations revealed the consignment had been imported into the country by Kehelbaddara Padme, who had previously rented a house in Nuwara Eliya to manufacture ice with the assistance of two Pakistani nationals.
Ada Derana reported that the raid followed information obtained during the interrogation of a suspect known as “Bako Saman.” Police suspect the chemicals had been concealed by two brothers, Sampath Manampeiri and Piyal Manampeiri – a former Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Pradeshiya Sabha member from Angunukolapelessa.
According to investigators, the suspects had transported the stock to the Meddeniya property in a boom truck after being alerted that police inquiries were underway. The brothers have since fled the area.
Police said the chemicals were capable of producing about 200 kilograms of ice with an estimated street value of Rs. 2 billion.
Further investigations are ongoing. (Newswire)