The Sri Lanka Navy has seized two fishing boats carrying a large stock of narcotics including ice and heroin worth more than Rs. 10 billion, along with firearms and modern satellite equipment, Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara said.
The detection was made following a special surveillance operation conducted in the southern seas for several days.
The two boats and the suspects were brought to the Dikovita Fisheries Harbour this morning (12). Speaking during an inspection visit, the Deputy Minister said the narcotics had been packed in 48 bags.
Authorities also discovered 11 firearms and several modern satellite communication devices on board the vessels.
Deputy Minister Jayasekara stated that the tri-forces are continuing operations to curb illegal drug trafficking as part of the national programme to eradicate dangerous narcotics.
He further noted that certain groups are attempting to create threats to the peaceful environment and national security of the country by engaging in drug trafficking activities.
The Deputy Minister urged the public, including the fishing community, to remain vigilant and report any information related to narcotics to the hotline 1997.
He emphasized that the government will not allow any threat to national security under any circumstances and will continue to act firmly to eliminate the drug menace.
Also present at the occasion were Kanchana Banagoda, Commander of the Navy, and Priyantha Weerasuriya, Inspector General of Police, along with several other officials.
