22 monks arrested with Rs. 1.1 billion drug haul at airport

Police Narcotic Bureau officials at Bandaranaike International Airport arrested 22 monks for smuggling a stock of "Kush" and "Hashish" valued at over Rs. 1.1 billion from Thailand.

According to the airport correspondent, this marks the largest drug seizure ever recorded in the history of Katunayake Airport.

The group travelled to Thailand on April 22 using air tickets provided by a sponsor. Security forces discovered evidence, including photos and videos on their mobile phones, showing that they had changed into civilian attire and engaged in various activities while abroad.

Acting on intelligence received by the Police Narcotic Bureau, officials intercepted the suspects yesterday (25) at 10:10 PM upon their arrival from Bangkok on Thai AirAsia flight FD-140. Each monk's luggage allegedly contained 5 kilograms of narcotics.

The contraband was concealed inside suitcases with false bottoms, meticulously covered by school supplies and sweets to avoid detection. The arrested monks are scheduled for production before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court today (26).