Sri Lanka Police Join Probe into Massive Narcotics Seizure In Maldives

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police have confirmed that investigations are underway following a massive narcotics seizure in Maldivian waters involving a Sri Lankan vessel.

Law enforcement and naval teams from Sri Lanka have already visited the Maldives to assist in the probe, and diplomatic efforts are in motion to bring the suspects and evidence back to Colombo.

The case centers on the vessel “Avishka Putha,” which was intercepted last Friday after illegally entering Maldivian territory. 

Acting on intelligence and aerial surveillance, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) deployed its Coast Guard Special Boat Squadron and Air Corps UAV unit to track and capture the ship. The vessel was later handed over to the Maldives Police Service for a detailed search.

A court-authorized inspection on Monday revealed 24 bags of suspected narcotics, amounting to 355.9 kilograms—including 58.6 kg of heroin and 297.3 kg of methamphetamine. 

Five Sri Lankan nationals—aged 28, 34, 39, 42, and 63—were arrested in connection with the operation. 

The investigation is now a joint effort involving the Maldives Police Service, MNDF, Sri Lanka Navy, and Sri Lanka Police. 

Officials have not yet confirmed whether the suspects are linked to a larger trafficking network, but the scale of the seizure suggests a highly organized operation.