Three further suspects, including two Pakistani nationals, have been arrested in connection with a major consignment of suspected crystal methamphetamine discovered at the Colombo Port, according to Sri Lanka Police.
Police-linked reporting placed the quantity recovered from two containers at nearly 463 kilograms, with an estimated street value exceeding Rs.8 billion.
The arrests were made by officers of the Central Crimes Investigation Bureau (CCIB) as investigations into the consignment continued.
Suspected drugs recovered from containers
According to police, two suspicious containers at the Colombo Port were inspected and opened with the assistance of Sri Lanka Customs.
A large quantity of material suspected to be crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “Ice”, was discovered inside.
Police said the weighing process placed the quantity recovered at nearly 463 kilograms.
Earlier reporting during the developing operation cited lower preliminary quantities. The nearly 463kg figure reflects the later police-linked account following further weighing.
Three further suspects arrested
Police subsequently reported the arrest of three further suspects in connection with the investigation.
Two of those arrested are Pakistani nationals.
The arrests were carried out by the CCIB as investigators continued efforts to establish responsibility for the importation and handling of the consignment.
Consignment reportedly originated from Pakistan
Reporting citing investigators says the shipment had arrived in Sri Lanka from Pakistan.
However, the reported origin of the shipment does not by itself establish responsibility or guilt on the part of any individual arrested in connection with the investigation.
Investigations remain ongoing.
Estimated street value exceeds Rs.8 billion
Police estimated the street value of the suspected narcotics at more than Rs.8 billion.
Street-value estimates are law-enforcement estimates and should not be treated as an independently established commercial valuation.
Investigation continues
The seizure and arrests form part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
The substances are being reported as suspected crystal methamphetamine based on police identification at this stage.
The arrest of an individual does not establish guilt, and responsibility for the shipment remains a matter for investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings.