A multi-day fishing vessel intercepted by the Sri Lanka Navy in deep seas off the southern coast was found carrying narcotics worth billions of rupees along with a cache of weapons, Deputy Minister Aruna Jayasekara said.
According to the Deputy Minister, the vessel was transporting around 600 kilograms of heroin and crystal methamphetamine (ICE) with an estimated street value of Rs. 10 billion.
Navy personnel also recovered eight pistols, two T-56 assault rifles and one M16 firearm, along with ammunition and magazines during the operation.
A total of 10 suspects who were on board the vessel were taken into custody.
The apprehended vessel, along with the suspects and seized items, was escorted to the Dikkowita Fisheries Harbour following the operation carried out in international waters south of Sri Lanka.
Authorities have launched further investigations into the suspected drug trafficking operation. (Newswire)
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