The Sri Lanka Navy says it has seized approximately 81 kilograms of ICE and heroin during an operation in the Kusumanthurei coastal area of Madagal, Jaffna.
According to the Navy, the seized consignment contained approximately:
- 45.5 kg of ICE, or methamphetamine
- 35.7 kg of heroin
One suspect was apprehended and a dinghy allegedly used in the operation was also taken into custody.
Navy estimates value above Rs.1.5 billion
The Navy estimates the street value of the seized narcotics at more than Rs.1.5 billion.
That figure is an enforcement estimate of street value and should not be presented as an independently established wholesale or market valuation.
The Navy said the operation followed information received by the Northern Naval Command.
Personnel attached to SLNS Agbo and Command fleet units intercepted the dinghy, according to the Navy.
The seized substances, suspect and dinghy were subsequently handed over to the Jaffna Police Narcotic Bureau for further legal action.
Large northern seizure
Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara described the seizure as the largest combined ICE and heroin haul seized by the Navy in northern waters in the context described by officials.
This characterisation should remain attributed to the Deputy Defence Minister/Navy rather than being presented as an independently audited historical record.
The identification and quantities of the substances are based on the Navy and Police narcotics investigation. Any later laboratory or court findings should supersede preliminary enforcement descriptions where applicable.
The arrest of the suspect does not establish guilt. Any criminal responsibility remains subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.