• Repatriation expected by 2027 
• Rs 4.695b criminal assets earmarked for seizure 

The Police have identified 112 individuals wanted under International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) Red Notices who are believed to be residing in 13 countries, with arrangements underway to secure their return to Sri Lanka by next year (2027), Police Media Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police and attorney F.U. Wootler said. He made these remarks at a media briefing held yesterday (29). He stated that legal action would be pursued against the suspects upon their return to the country. He further noted that the individuals are allegedly generating illicit income through drug trafficking.

Meanwhile, investigations into assets suspected to have been acquired through criminal proceeds are being conducted around the clock by two specialised Police units, he said. Assets valued at Rs 1.49 billion in 2024, Rs 1.549 billion last year (in 2025) and Rs 1.656 billion this year (in 2026), up to Wednesday (28), have been identified for acquisition by the State. These assets include gold jewellery, land, vehicles and cash.

Further, the Police have reported significant narcotics seizures over the past two years and during 2026 to date. The quantities seized include 4,483 kg of heroin, valued at Rs 107.942 billion, 7,129 kg of crystal methamphetamine Ice, valued at Rs 121.64 billion, 33,277 kg of cannabis, valued at Rs 5.293 billion, and 333 kg of cocaine, valued at Rs 14.306 billion. He also outlined the penalties applicable under existing legislation, stating that individuals found guilty of possessing, trafficking, dealing in or manufacturing more than five grams of Ice, heroin or cocaine could face life imprisonment or the death penalty following proceedings before the High Court.

The ‘Nation United’ national operation, launched in October 2025, has completed its first year. During this period, Police seized 2,835 kg of heroin, 3,550 kg of Ice, 297 kg of cocaine, and 11,167 kg of cannabis. A total of 5,743 individuals allegedly connected to various criminal activities were arrested during the year, while investigations into suspected illicit assets are being conducted against 450 of those suspects.

Wootler acknowledged that efforts to combat organised crime and drug trafficking posed significant challenges to the Police. However, he emphasised that the Police would continue to receive the support of the three Armed Forces in carrying out these operations.