Major Drug Bust at Bandaranaike International Airport - 22 Monks Arrested

A large-scale narcotics seizure valued at over Rs. 1.1 billion has been reported at Bandaranaike International Airport, with 22 Buddhist monks taken into custody, according to local media reports.

The arrests were carried out on Saturday night by officers of the Police Narcotics Bureau following intelligence-led operations.

Authorities said more than 110 kilograms of suspected Kush and Hashish were discovered concealed in false-bottom suitcases. The luggage was reportedly packed with school supplies and assorted sweets to evade detection. Investigators added that each suspect was allegedly carrying more than five kilograms of narcotics.

Preliminary investigations suggest the group had travelled to Bangkok on April 22 using tickets allegedly arranged by a sponsor. Mobile phone evidence is also said to include photos and videos of the suspects dressed in civilian clothing while abroad.

Officials described the seizure as the largest drug bust ever recorded at the airport and the first known case involving monks being arrested there with such a large narcotics consignment.

The suspects, identified as young monks from various parts of the country who are reportedly pursuing higher education, are expected to be produced before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court for further legal proceedings.