Narcotics Worth Rs. 25 Billion Seized at Sea

27-Mar-2026

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Under the national anti-drug operation titled “The Whole Country Together”, approximately narcotics worth Rs. 25 billion have been seized so far this year, and nine fishing boats and 49 suspects have been arrested, stated Navy Media Spokesman Commander Buththika Sampath.

He made these remarks at a special media briefing held on March 26 at the Government Information Department to clarify the progress of the “The Whole Country Together” nationwide special anti-drug operation launched under the President since October last year.

He further stated: “Operations carried out islandwide by the Tri-Forces to completely eradicate the deadly menace of narcotics from this country have been intensified. In particular, continuous search operations are being conducted by the Navy focusing on drug smuggling and distribution via sea routes.

Furthermore, through coordination and information-sharing among security-related institutions including the National Coast Guard Department, Police, Tri-Forces, Customs and Intelligence units, this programme against narcotics has been successfully carried out.

During special search operations conducted by the Navy in 2025, narcotics worth approximately Rs. 71 billion were seized. Similarly, so far this year alone, narcotics worth around Rs. 25 billion have been seized.

These drugs and the boats transporting them along with weapons were seized during search operations carried out over several days at sea.

Accordingly, within the period of this year so far, nine fishing boats have been seized and 49 suspects have been arrested. Furthermore, last year, the Navy seized 13 fishing boats transporting narcotics, and 123 fishing boats attempting to bring cannabis and high-grade foreign cigarettes into the country.

Drug traffickers exploit the vulnerabilities of those engaged in fishing activities by deceiving them with promises of money and trapping them in large-scale narcotics crimes.

However, fishermen must realise that no one involved in drug smuggling can escape legal action. Information regarding individuals forcing others into such criminal activity can be reported via hotline numbers 105, 1818, and 1997. I urge the public to recognise their social responsibility and support us.

There are 50,000 fishing boats and 5,000 deep-sea fishing boats engaged in fishing activities in the country. Therefore, we will never allow drugs to be brought into the country through sea routes,” he said.