In a joint operation between the Sri Lankan Navy and the Maldivian Coast Guard, a Sri Lankan fishing trawler was intercepted on November 23, 2024, in the Maldivian Exclusive Economic Zone. The trawler, Ashen Putha, was carrying a significant stash of illegal drugs, including 344 kg of crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as ‘Ice’) and 124 kg of cocaine.
The operation began after the Maldivian Coast Guard alerted the Sri Lanka Navy’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) about the trawler entering Maldivian waters. Initially, there were concerns that the vessel might be in distress or facing mechanical problems. However, after reviewing the trawler’s records, the Sri Lankan Navy discovered the vessel had links to drug trafficking.
With this information in hand, the Navy coordinated with the Maldivian authorities, who launched a search operation. The operation quickly uncovered the drugs hidden aboard the trawler.
Five suspects, aged between 21 and 37, were arrested in connection with the seizure. They are residents of Dondra and Trincomalee, both coastal towns in Sri Lanka. Authorities are now investigating whether the drugs were intended for distribution within Sri Lanka or if they were destined for another country in the region.
This successful operation highlights the growing cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Maldives in tackling transnational drug trafficking. Both nations are continuing their investigations, with intelligence agencies working together to determine the full scope of the operation.
