March 12 (Citizen.lk News)-In a major maritime breakthrough, the Sri Lanka Navy intercepted two multi-day fishing trawlers in international waters off the Southern coast, seizing a massive haul of narcotics estimated to be worth Rs. 10 billion.
The vessels, which were brought to the Dikkowita Harbour today, were discovered to be carrying over 600 kilograms of drugs alongside a sophisticated arsenal of weaponry, marking the largest seizure of its kind so far this year.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), confirmed during an inspection that the operation was the result of a meticulously planned mission involving several days of deep-sea surveillance and the coordination of both local and international intelligence agencies.
The primary vessel was found equipped with satellite phones and an array of firearms, including eight pistols, two T-56 rifles, and an M16 rifle ,a weapon typically restricted to specialized security forces.
A second trawler was also taken into custody, suspected of providing surveillance and logistical support for the smuggling attempt. A total of 10 suspects, all residents of the Southern Province, were arrested during the raid.
Deputy Minister Jayasekara emphasized that this highly organized operation posed a direct threat to national security and was clearly intended to cause significant issues within the country.
The suspects and the seized contraband remain under investigation as authorities work to dismantle the broader network behind this multi-billion rupee criminal enterprise.