Ten suspects granted 7-day detention over southern sea drug and weapons haul

Ten individuals have been granted a week-long detention after being arrested in connection with a significant drug and weapons bust involving two multi-day fishing boats off the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The suspects were presented at the Hulftsdorp (Aluthkade) Courts Complex following their capture. The Sri Lanka Navy intercepted one of the fishing boats, finding five suspects along with illegal drugs and firearms in the deep sea. Another boat with five additional suspects was also seized. Both boats were taken to Dikovita Fisheries Harbour on March 12. The Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) is continuing its investigation into this case. The suspects, aged between 22 and 49, come from several areas including Iranawila, Mahawewa, Melsiripura, Wennappuwa, Negombo, Nakulugama, Tangalle, Netolpitiya, and Gandara. Investigators have charged them with possession, importation, and trafficking of approximately 176 kilograms and 568 grams of heroin and 478 kilograms and 326 grams of crystal methamphetamine, also known as Ice. Additionally, they are facing charges for the import and possession of various firearms, which include eight pistols, 15 magazines, two T56 rifles, one M16 rifle, and four magazines for the M16, as well as charges for aiding and abetting these crimes. Authorities estimate that the total worth of the seized drugs, amounting to about 654 kilograms, exceeds Rs. 10 billion. Due to legal restrictions, comments on articles related to ongoing court cases have been disabled by the Ada Derana Editorial team.