Eight bus drivers and one conductor have been arrested in Kalutara for allegedly being under the influence of narcotics while on duty, Police said.

The arrests were made during a joint operation by Kalutara South Police and the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI).

Inspections were carried out on public transport staff within the Kalutara South Police Division.

The suspects, aged between 35 and 57, are residents of several areas including Payagala, Dodangoda and Kalutara South.

Further investigations are ongoing.