More Information revealed after inspection of mobile phones of 22 monks
28-Apr-2026.
Investigations officers have stated that examination of mobile phones belonging to 22 monks arrested at Katunayake Airport on April 25 with narcotics worth Rs. 110 million has revealed multiple details regarding their three-day foreign visit.
Accordingly, it has been found that the 22 young monks had travelled to Bangkok, Thailand on April 22. During their three-day stay, police Narcotics Bureau officers examined their mobile phones and uncovered significant information regarding their activities.
It has been revealed that upon arrival in Thailand, a considerable number of them had removed their saffron robes and worn civilian clothing before visiting nightclubs. Investigators have also recovered photographic and video evidence indicating that they engaged in inappropriate video calls with women and nuns, as well as involvement in smoking and alcohol consumption.
At the end of the three-day visit, it has been reported that a Sri Lankan national in Bangkok handed over 22 travel packages to them prior to departure. They were allegedly informed that the packages contained school stationery for underprivileged students, sweets, and hygiene items, and were instructed not to open them under any circumstances.
However, based on confidential intelligence received by authorities, police intercepted the group upon arrival at Katunayake on the night of April 25 via AirAsia Flight FD 140. Upon inspection, 110 kilograms of “Kush” and hashish narcotics were recovered, concealed beneath school supplies.
The principal monk allegedly behind the large-scale smuggling operation has also been arrested. Investigations have further revealed that a group of 12 monks had undertaken a similar trip to Thailand last month, and another group was being prepared for travel in May.
Further investigations are being conducted under the direct supervision of Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya, with guidance from Senior DIG Ranmal Kodithuwakku and DIG Ashoka Dharmasena.
