US-Sri Lanka joint operation busts $21mn drug network
Wednesday September 2, 2026 1:45 pmECONOMYNEXT – The US helped Sri Lanka detect a narcotrafficking network attempting to smuggle crystal methamphetamine through the island-nation to international markets, the US Embassy said.
The US Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Delhi Country Office and Sri Lanka’s Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) conducted the joint operation disrupting a Pakistan-based network.
“Acting on intelligence developed by DEA’s Foreign Counterparts Unit Pakistan Anti-Narcotics Force Special Investigations Cell between August 14–29 on suspicious maritime containers moving from Pakistan to Colombo, PNB seized approximately 463 kg of crystal methamphetamine — valued at $21 million — concealed in bath towels, and arrested several suspects.”
“This operation underscores the strength of the U.S.-Sri Lanka partnership in dismantling transnational criminal organizations that fund terrorism and threaten communities in both our countries.”
This cooperation builds on longstanding training and technical assistance provided through the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) to the Sri Lanka Police and Customs.
- https://economynext.com/us-sri-lanka-joint-operation-busts-21mn-drug-network-282572/
