The Sri Lanka Police, alongside the Special Task Force and tri-forces, unleashed a week-long crackdown on drug trafficking and criminal networks across the island last week.
Between 18 and 24 July, this massive operation resulted in the arrest of 1,455 suspects and the seizure of huge quantities of crystal methamphetamine, heroin, and cannabis.
According to a media statement issued by the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, the arrests resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illicit drugs, including 374 grammes and 336 milligrammes of crystal methamphetamine (ICE) and 218 grammes and 281 milligrammes of heroin.
The nationwide operation, conducted jointly by the Sri Lanka Police, Police Special Task Force, and the tri-forces, aimed to dismantle drug networks and improve public safety.
On Friday (25) alone, over 6,500 personnel were deployed in targeted raids, inspecting 24,281 individuals, 10,175 vehicles, and 7,240 motorcycles as part of an intensified enforcement campaign.
Officials reported that the weeklong efforts resulted in the seizure of more than 2.1 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine, approximately 1.3 kilogrammes of heroin, and over 82 kilogrammes of cannabis.
In addition to drug offences, 17 individuals linked to other criminal activities were arrested during special raids and 408 people were apprehended based on outstanding warrants.