Post-Mortem Reveals Narcotics Cocktail in Tangalle Tragedy

COLOMBO (News 1st); Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation following the discovery of three deceased individuals in a suspected drug distribution house in the Seenimodara area of Tangalle. 

The bodies, found under suspicious circumstances, are now at the center of a forensic inquiry aimed at determining the exact cause of death.

The post-mortem examinations, conducted by Judicial Medical Officer Dr. Ruwan Nanayakkara at the Tangalle Base Hospital, revealed the presence of multiple narcotic substances — including crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as "ice") — in the victims' systems.

The grim discovery was made following a tip-off received by police on the morning of September 22. 

Two bodies were found inside a house believed to be used for drug-related activities, while a third individual, discovered in critical condition, later succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

Subsequent investigations led to the seizure of a massive stockpile of narcotics — including ice and heroin — hidden inside three lorries.

Police estimate the street value of the haul to be close to Rs. 10 billion, making it one of the largest drug busts in the region in recent months.

Authorities believe the narcotics were smuggled into the country on September 21 via two boats that landed along the Kudawella-Mawella coastal belt. 

The drugs were initially stored in an abandoned house near the shore before being transported in stages to the Tangalle residence where the deaths occurred.

Police have linked the operation to a notorious overseas-based criminal figure known as Unakuruwe Shantha.

So far, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. 

Among them are two sons of one of the deceased, three registered owners of the lorries used in the operation, and a lorry driver. 

The driver, arrested on September 23, was produced before the Tangalle Magistrate’s Court and has been placed in detention for seven days.