Colombo, May 28 (Reporter) Sri Lankan authorities have reportedly seized more than 600 kilograms of heroin and crystal methamphetamine in a major maritime drug bust, arresting 11 suspects and confiscating two fishing trawlers used in the smuggling operation. The interception occurred during a joint operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy, State Intelligence Service, and Police Narcotics Bureau in the country’s southern territorial waters. The two vessels were escorted to Dikowita Fisheries Harbour on Wednesday, where both the drug consignment and suspects were formally taken into custody. According to the Sri Lankan Navy, initial assessments confirm a haul exceeding 600 kg, though final verification is on. The seized drugs — heroin and methamphetamine (locally referred to as “ice”) — were hidden aboard multi-day fishing trawlers commonly used in maritime trafficking routes, reports News First. Sri Lanka has long faced international drug smuggling challenges, owing to its strategic position in the Indian Ocean. The island nation has often been used as a transit point by crime syndicates for regional, as well as international drug smuggling. In response, Colombo has intensified its crackdown on narcotics operations in recent years, increasing surveillance, and jointly collaborating with Indian intelligence and Naval authorities for seizing drug consignments. Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara, who inspected the seized contraband alongside senior security officials, pledged firm legal action against the traffickers. “This is part of our commitment to building a drug-free society,” he said. The suspects and contraband have been handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau for further investigation and legal proceedings. This latest bust marks one of the largest in recent memory and underscores Sri Lanka’s growing role in regional anti-drug trafficking efforts, as authorities continue to confront sophisticated smuggling networks exploiting the island’s vast coastline...////...