The Sri Lanka Navy has confirmed the recovery of over 189 kilograms of narcotics, including ICE and heroin, with an estimated street value exceeding Rs. 4.2 billion, from a multi-day fishing trawler intercepted in the southern deep seas.
Director Navy Media, Commander Chaminda Walakuluge, told Newswire that the seized narcotics included over 132 kilograms of ICE and more than 57 kilograms of heroin.
The final figures were confirmed following the inspection and weighing of the narcotics recovered from the fishing trawler, which was brought to the Dikkowita Fisheries Harbour today (05).
The trawler, registered as Phana Putha, was intercepted on the morning of November 1 during a special intelligence-led naval operation in the deep seas south of Sri Lanka.
According to Commander Walakuluge, the vessel had departed from the Gandara Fisheries Harbour on October 18 for fishing activities.
Acting on specific intelligence, the Navy deployed its advanced vessel, Samudra Vijay, to intercept the trawler.
During a subsequent search, Navy personnel discovered 10 sacks containing suspected narcotics, while five individuals aboard the vessel and a satellite phone were also taken into custody.
The vessel and suspects were brought to the Dikkowita Fisheries Harbour today, where the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) assisted in inspecting the consignment.
The inspection revealed 100 packets of suspected ICE and 52 packets of suspected heroin.
Commander Walakuluge said the operation was conducted with intelligence support from the Police Special Task Force (STF), state intelligence agencies, international intelligence agencies and anti-drug organisations. (Newswire)