World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Navy seizes fishing vessel suspected of drug trafficking off southern coast
Sri Lankan naval forces have intercepted a local fishing trawler allegedly carrying a significant narcotics consignment during an operation in deep waters off the island's southern region. The interdiction has been linked to suspects Parevi Suda and Dippitigoda Lahiru.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Navy conducted a special maritime operation that resulted in the seizure of a multi-day fishing vessel suspected of transporting illegal drugs. According to a Navy statement released yesterday, the trawler was apprehended while allegedly carrying several sacks believed to contain narcotics in international waters off Sri Lanka's southern coast.
A number of suspects were detained following the interception, with investigations pointing to connections with the named individuals Parevi Suda and Dippitigoda Lahiru. The Navy has not yet disclosed further details regarding the suspects' identities or their roles in the alleged smuggling operation.
The seizure marks another significant drug interdiction by Sri Lankan naval forces, which have intensified maritime patrols in recent months to combat drug trafficking operations. The consignment size and composition of the suspected narcotics have not been disclosed pending ongoing investigations.
The vessel and recovered materials have been handed over to relevant authorities for further examination and legal proceedings. Naval officials indicated that comprehensive investigations are underway to establish the full scope of the trafficking network and identify all individuals involved in the operation.