Navy led joint operation nabs foreign fishing vessel carrying Rs. 3,100 million worth heroin
September 04, 2021- President praises for the success of joint operation – Defence Secretary
Defence Secretary Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) arriving at the Colombo Harbour conveyed His Excellency the President’s appreciation to the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), the Sri Lanka Police and the Intelligence Services for arresting a foreign fishing vessel which was carrying 336 kilos of heroin worth of Rs. 3,100 million, at the international waters, south of Sri Lanka, today (Sep 4).
The foreign fishing vessel transferring a sizable haul of heroin was seized by the SLN Ship Samudura, under the directives of Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, following a tip off given by the Sri Lanka Police.
Gen. Gunaratne who was instrumental in combating the drug smuggling ring also appreciated the commitment of the crew and the skipper of SLN Ship, which was deployed for the task, for bringing much awaited large narcotic haul with seven foreign suspects, pursuing the target about 740 nautical miles (1370km) away from the country’s southern tip.
Defence Secretary responding to media revealed “plans were drawn to nab this narcotic haul from Aug 12 and the SLN Ship Samudura sailed despite rough sea conditions.
Illustrating the achievement of this joint operation, he stated “if we propel the same system forward collectively, we will be able to see a country rid of illegal drugs in future”.
According to the Navy Spokesman Capt. Indika De Silva, suspects brought to Colombo Harbour will be handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) for onward investigations.
According to the SLN sources recovery is about 336 kilos and 300 grams packed in 301 bundles.
The gross street value of the heroin seized is believed to be over Rs. 3,100 million, the news added.
The entire operation was conducted while adhering to the healthcare guidelines.
Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, Senior Navy, Police and PNB officers were also present at the event.
