The Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard seized approximately 561 kg and 705 grams of methamphetamine (Ice) and heroin during a joint operation in the coastal area of Naotunna in Thalalla, on the country's southern coast, the Sri Lanka Navy said. The navy valued the consignment at more than Rs. 11.8 billion — yaani about Rs. 1,180 crore.

Source: Sri Lanka Navy

The drugs were found in 21 sacks and travel bags, the navy said. Its first notice of the operation said search teams had found 10 sacks and 11 travelling bags containing suspected narcotics on Naotunna beach on the morning of Saturday, October 24, before the consignment was weighed and identified.

Source: Sri Lanka Navy

Xinhua reported from Colombo on Sunday that the navy and Coast Guard seized more than 561 kilograms of methamphetamine and heroin during the joint operation on the southern coast, matching the navy's account. The Daily Mirror in Sri Lanka likewise reported the seizure at Matara at 561.705 kg of heroin and crystal methamphetamine, valued at over Rs. 11.8 billion.

Source: Xinhua (via EIN News)

The reports did not name any suspects or say where the consignment had come from, and no origin claim is made here. Sri Lanka's southern coast faces busy Indian Ocean shipping routes, and the navy and Coast Guard regularly report joint anti-narcotics operations along the island's coastline.

Source: Sri Lanka Navy