Sri Lanka seeks return of 112 wanted suspects from 13 countries

The police have identified 112 suspects wanted under Interpol Red Notices who are believed to be hiding in 13 countries, Police Spokesman F.U. Wootler said on Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference on the progress of the nationwide anti-crime operation "Rata Ekata," Wootler said authorities were taking steps to bring the suspects back to Sri Lanka and hoped to secure their return by 2027.

He said the suspects were involved in criminal activities linked to drug trafficking, which generated substantial illegal proceeds.

Police have deployed two specialised units to investigate assets acquired through illegal activities, including property, vehicles, jewellery and cash, he said.

According to Wootler, authorities have identified assets worth 1.49 billion Sri Lankan rupees in 2024, 1.55 billion rupees in 2025 and 1.66 billion rupees so far in 2026 for possible confiscation.

He said police had seized 4,483 kg of heroin, 7,129 kg of methamphetamine, 33,277 kg of cannabis and 333 kg of cocaine during the past two years and the first 10 months of 2026.

The nationwide anti-crime operation, launched in October 2025, has resulted in the arrest of 5,743 suspects involved in various criminal activities over the past year, Wootler said.

Investigations into illegally acquired assets are underway against 450 of those arrested, he added.

Wootler said police would continue the operation with the support of the country's armed forces.