Police probe international drug network after 472kg crystal methamphetamine seizure

Police have launched an investigation into an alleged international drug trafficking network following the seizure of about 472 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “Ice”, from a container at Colombo Port.

Police suspect the consignment was sent to Sri Lanka by a trafficker known as “Paravi Suda”, who is believed to be in Pakistan after fleeing Dubai. Investigators are also examining possible links to individuals known as “Angoda Priyantha” and “Ruben”.

The drugs were discovered on Sunday concealed inside towels in a container at the port.

Police launched the investigation after Senior Deputy Inspector General Ranmal Kodituwakku received information from an overseas informant. Officers obtained a court order on August 28 to inspect the container with assistance from the Police Narcotics Bureau and Sri Lanka Customs.

Police said the container had been listed for re-export to Morocco, but investigators suspect the drugs were intended for the Sri Lankan market.

A 44-year-old businessman from Dematagoda, Arumugam Shashidharan, was arrested after police found that the shipment had been imported under his company’s name.

Questioning led investigators to two Pakistani nationals, who were later arrested at an apartment complex in Colombo.

Police said the suspects alleged that the shipment had been arranged through the Dematagoda businessman’s company.

Investigations are continuing to identify others involved and establish the full extent of the suspected trafficking network.