COLOMBO— Authorities in Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) have uncovered a major narcotics smuggling attempt involving 22 individuals dressed as Buddhist monks, marking one of the most significant drug seizures in Sri Lanka’s aviation history.
The suspects were detained following a coordinated operation by the Police Narcotics Bureau and later produced before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court, where they were remanded until May 2.
Investigators believe the group had recently returned from Bangkok, raising concerns about transnational trafficking routes using commercial aviation.
Bandaranaike Airport Drug Bust
Officials reported that more than 110 kilograms of suspected narcotics, including kush and hashish, were seized from luggage carried by the group.
The drugs were hidden in specially modified suitcases with false bottoms, a method often used in organized smuggling operations.
Authorities stated that each individual allegedly carried over five kilograms of illegal substances. The estimated street value of the seizure exceeds Rs 1.1 billion, making it the largest narcotics interception recorded at the airport, Tamil Guardian flagged.
The luggage appeared ordinary at first inspection, as it contained school supplies and confectionery items.
However, further screening revealed concealed compartments designed to bypass routine airport checks.
Smuggling Network Probe
The arrests followed intelligence inputs that prompted a targeted raid at the airport. Police confirmed that the group had traveled overseas on April 22 using airline tickets reportedly arranged by a third-party sponsor.
Investigators recovered mobile phone data that suggests coordination with external handlers.
Authorities also allege that the suspects were seen in civilian clothing during their stay abroad, engaging in activities that raised suspicion among enforcement agencies.
Officials are now working to trace the origin of the narcotics and identify individuals or networks responsible for financing the operation.
The probe also aims to determine whether airport security gaps were exploited or if insider assistance played a role.
Clergy Response
Senior members of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist establishment have strongly condemned the incident.
Leading prelates described the accused as individuals misusing religious identity to conduct criminal activities.
A joint statement called for stricter oversight of monastic institutions and urged authorities to take firm action against those found guilty. Religious leaders emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the saffron robe, which holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in the country.
Law enforcement agencies continue to expand the investigation, focusing on uncovering broader links to international trafficking networks.
Officials indicated that further arrests may follow as forensic and digital evidence is analyzed.
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