FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – Sri Lanka’s law enforcement agencies have seized illegal assets worth billions of rupees and large quantities of narcotics as part of an intensified crackdown on organized crime and drug trafficking, officials claimed.
Since October 30, 2025, police have arrested over 114,000 suspects, according to Police Media Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) F U Wootler.
In 2024 and 2025, assets valued at over 3.1 billion rupees were seized from nearly 90 suspects, he told reporters.
“The primary objective of this mechanism is to direct those addicted to drugs toward rehabilitation,” Wootler said.
He noted that 1,911 individuals have already been sent for recovery programs.
Authorities reported recovering 1,071 kg and 338 grams of Heroin, 1,938 kg and 299 grams of Crystal Methamphetamine (ICE), and nearly 5,000 kg of Cannabis.
Police have already begun the public destruction of these substances in coordination with the Government Analyst and the Judiciary.
Wootler also highlighted international efforts to bring fugitive criminals to justice. “Under the Laws of Extradition, we have managed to bring 29 organized criminals back to Sri Lanka,” he said, adding that Red Notices have been issued for another 89 suspects currently abroad.
So far this year, Police have searched 2.4 million citizens to maintain public order.
To further involve the community, a dedicated WhatsApp hotline (0777 128 128) has been launched for the Western Province to report corrupt activities and organized crime. (Colombo/Mar26/2026)
