December 03, Colombo (LNW): In the wake of a significant narcotics seizure by the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean, the Sri Lanka Navy is seeking to enhance its operational cooperation with Indian forces, particularly in the high seas, to counter the growing threat of drug smuggling.
Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, confirmed that a successful joint operation last week marked the first time the Sri Lanka Navy received direct assistance from its Indian counterparts.
The operation, conducted on November 24 and 25, involved a coordinated effort to intercept two Sri Lankan-flagged fishing boats suspected of smuggling narcotics in the Arabian Sea.
Thanks to timely intelligence, the Indian Navy intercepted the vessels, resulting in the seizure of approximately 400 kilogrammds of crystal meth, also known as ‘Ice.’
The Sri Lankan boats, along with the crew members on board, were escorted back to Colombo Port by a Sri Lanka Navy vessel, the Gajaba.
The operation began after the Sri Lanka Navy received reliable intelligence regarding the narcotics trafficking activity.
As there was no Sri Lankan naval vessel in the Indian Ocean at the time, the Sri Lanka Navy sought immediate assistance from the Indian Navy.
The Indian authorities responded swiftly, deploying aircraft and drones to locate and track the smuggling vessels.
Vice Admiral Perera explained that the collaborative nature of the operation was critical in the successful interception of the narcotics shipment.
“Upon receiving intelligence about potential trafficking in the high seas, the Sri Lankan authorities contacted the Indian High Commission. The Defence Attaché acted quickly, liaising with the Indian Navy, which then launched an air and sea operation to locate the vessels,” he said. “This was an outstanding example of cross-border cooperation in combating transnational crime.“
One of the intercepted boats was found to be carrying the large quantity of crystal meth, while the other vessel supported the operation.
In response to this success, the Sri Lanka Navy has announced plans to bolster future collaborative efforts with India, particularly focusing on high-seas operations to combat the rising threat of drug trafficking in the region.
Vice Admiral Perera also called on the public, particularly the fishing community, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug smuggling.
“It is essential for everyone to play a part in tackling this growing menace. We urge the public to share any information with the Sri Lanka Navy or the police to help us curb the increasing trafficking of illicit drugs,” he added.
