Three Remanded Over Drug-Linked Deaths in Tangalle

COLOMBO (News 1st); Three individuals have been remanded until September 29 in connection with the discovery of three deceased persons and a large cache of narcotics at a residence in the Seenimodara area of Tangalle.

The suspects were presented before the Tangalle Magistrate last night, following their arrest in relation to the incident. 

Among those remanded is the relative of one of the deceased, identified as Thusitha Wenukumara, the owner of a small lorry found with ten packets of crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as "ice"), and the registered owner of another lorry seized with heroin and ice.

Police have confirmed that six individuals have been taken into custody so far as investigations continue.

The bodies of the three deceased men were discovered under suspicious circumstances at the residence, prompting authorities to send the remains to the Government Analyst for forensic examination. 

Preliminary post-mortem reports conducted by Judicial Medical Officer Dr. Ruwan Nanayakkara at Tangalle Base Hospital revealed traces of multiple narcotic substances in their systems.

The initial discovery was made on the morning of September 22, when police responded to a tip-off and found two bodies at the house. 

A third individual died shortly after being admitted to Tangalle Hospital.

Subsequent investigations led to the seizure of over 700 kilograms of heroin and crystal meth, valued at approximately Rs. 10 billion, hidden in three lorries. 

Authorities believe the narcotics were smuggled into the country via two boats that landed on the Kudawella and Mawella shores on September 21.

Police sources indicate that the drug consignment is linked to a notorious international criminal network, allegedly operated by a fugitive named Unakuruwe Shantha, who is believed to be hiding overseas.