(Sri Lanka Brief/23.09.25) In a sweeping crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Sri Lankan law enforcement has uncovered a sprawling drug network spanning from Weligama to Tangalle, revealing international links, covert manufacturing, and deadly consequences.
Weligama Drug Lab: Russian-Moldovan Duo at the Helm
A covert crystal methamphetamine (ICE) production facility was discovered in Salmal Uyana, Weligama, operated by an 18-year-old Moldovan national under the guidance of a Russian handler. The Moldovan suspect, previously residing in Unawatuna, had rented the property and was actively synthesizing ICE using imported chemicals.
Scientific testing confirmed the presence of approximately 10 kilograms of ICE at the site. Senior DIG Kitsiri Jayalath stated that the Russian national had trained the youth and orchestrated the operation. “If this trend continues—producing ICE in villages just like illicit alcohol—it will leave no future for the next generation of our country,” he warned.
Authorities are now probing the broader network, with several individuals already linked to the case. Similar labs have previously been uncovered in Nuwara Eliya and Hambantota, with combined production exceeding 30 kilograms.
Tangalle: Massive Seizure and Mysterious Deaths
In Tangalle, police recovered a staggering 245 kilograms of heroin and 380 kilograms of ICE from three lorries during a multi-phase operation triggered by the sudden death of a man at a house under renovation in Seenimodara. Two additional bodies were found at the same location, with investigators suspecting toxic narcotic fumes as the cause.
Searches revealed narcotics packed for transport, hidden compartments in vehicles, and packages likely smuggled via sea routes. One lorry intercepted on the Tangalle–Katharagama Road concealed over 200 kilograms of drugs beneath a false floor, along with four firearms including a T-56 assault rifle.
Weapons Cache and Contract Killing Links
In a connected operation, the Western Province North Crimes Division unearthed a cache of weapons buried near Middeniya. Suspects Sampath Manamperi and ‘Backhoe Saman’ were interrogated for hours, leading to the recovery of T-56 magazines, ammunition, a pistol, and a hand grenade.
Manamperi allegedly facilitated multiple arms exchanges and is suspected in the killing of Aruna Widanagamage and his two children. He is also believed to have trafficked cannabis and heroin using a luxury vehicle.
Ongoing Investigations
Assistant Superintendent of Police Rohan Olugala is overseeing the expanding investigation, with Chief Inspector Linton de Silva leading follow-up operations. The Kadurupokuna area yielded another lorry disguised as a melon transporter, hiding 86 packets of ICE, 100 packets of heroin, five revolvers, and a T-56 rifle.
These revelations mark one of the most significant blows to organized drug trafficking in Sri Lanka’s recent history, exposing a lethal convergence of international operatives, domestic networks, and violent crime.
( With the inputs from newspaper articles)