Drug Mafia Debate Explodes in Parliament

COLOMBO (News 1st); A heated debate erupted in Parliament today over the growing influence of drug mafias in Sri Lanka, with explosive allegations pointing to the involvement of security forces and political networks.

Minister of Fisheries Ramalingam Chandrasekar opened the discussion with a blunt warning: "Drug mafias are ruling the North today. The North is in turmoil. No politician has acted to resolve this situation. Even if you take Sajith’s group and everyone here, this mafia was created not yesterday, but since 1978, causing devastation."

Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, MP (Tamil National People’s Front) countered: "The main reason for drugs in the North and East is the military. When will you withdraw the military?"

Chandrasekar responded with alarming details:
"In the past two months, over a hundred children have been sent abroad because of this drug mafia. No evidence is needed—you’ll understand if you live in Jaffna. This is the reality on the ground. You said the military is responsible. You also said the police are involved. There’s truth in that. The police and military are not separate—they are linked with the mafia. And Tamil politics is also tied to this mafia."

Ponnambalam welcomed the admission but pressed further: "Minister, I appreciate your acknowledgment that the military and police are involved. Previous governments never admitted this. You spoke of a mafia—until accountability is ensured within the military, this mafia will not disappear. You know in the North, there are two soldiers for every two civilians."

Chandrasekar clarified: "We cannot accuse the entire military or police. There are individuals involved, yes. But don’t forget—your political parties, your allies, and even members of your own party are backing these mafia groups."

Deputy Minister of Defense, Major General (Retired) Aruna Jayasekara, defended the government’s strategy: "It’s a professional task requiring a strategic approach. That’s why we launched the national anti-drug operation on October 31. Every sector is covered, and Rs. 1,500 million has been allocated in the budget for drug control programs. Last year, we saw results. This year alone, through these operations, we seized 20,000 kilograms of drugs. If these drugs had circulated, the impact on governance, peace, and society would have been catastrophic."

The debate intensified when MP Rishad Bathiudeen alleged direct collusion: "You said the police and military are involved—let me give you proof. The OIC of Norochcholai called a drug dealer and said, ‘Six more people are coming, get everything ready. Don’t pay the monthly fee, just give Rs. 50,000.’ There’s an audio recording. In that area, he’s the one responsible for all drug operations. Full support. No action has been taken against him yet. Investigate and act."

Jayasekara assured: "We will investigate and take action. Thank you for the information."