Over 123,000 arrested for drug offences in Sri Lanka so far in 2025

• Minister says efforts are underway to identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within and across Sri Lanka’s borders

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

The Police and security forces have arrested 123,701 individuals for drug-related offences between January 1 and July 30, 2025, the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs said.   
During this period, law enforcement agencies seized significant quantities of narcotics, including over 928 kg of heroin, 1,396 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ICE), 11,192 kg of cannabis, 27.8 kg of cocaine and 381 kg of hashish.    
The operations involved the Sri Lanka Police, the Police Special Task Force, and the Tri-Forces, the ministry said.   
On Wednesday, a special nationwide operation was conducted, deploying 7,079 personnel. Officers searched 10,510 vehicles and 7,238 motorcycles during the operation. A total of 788 individuals were arrested for drug-related offences, including 32 suspects identified as directly involved in organized drug activities. Authorities also seized four illegal firearms and arrested 356 individuals with outstanding warrants.   
Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala said that efforts are underway to identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within and across Sri Lanka’s borders. The aim is to disrupt both the supply and internal distribution of narcotics.   
In addition, the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, under the Ministry of Public Security, is prioritizing prevention initiatives and rehabilitation programmes to reduce drug demand.   
The board is working to regularize the rehabilitation process for drug users and implement long-term solutions to combat substance abuse, the ministry also said.