Massive Crime Sweep Nets Hundreds of Suspects, Illegal Weapons

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan law enforcement authorities on Tuesday (5) have arrested 853 individuals in connection with drug-related offenses, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

The arrests were made during a special island-wide operation targeting narcotics, illegal firearms, criminal suspects, and traffic violations. 

Among those apprehended were 17 individuals directly linked to organized crime and 380 suspects with outstanding warrants.

The crackdown also extended to road safety enforcement, with 101 drunk drivers taken into custody on the same day. 

Authorities confirmed the seizure of eight illegal firearms, including seven locally manufactured weapons and one foreign-made gun.

The Ministry stated that these operations are being conducted daily under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, with a dual focus on eradicating drug trafficking and dismantling organized criminal networks across the country.