January 22, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan law enforcement agencies recorded their largest-ever haul of illicit drugs in 2025, reflecting a sharp intensification of anti-narcotics operations, according to Police Media Spokesperson Assistant Superintendent of Police F. U. Wootler.

Speaking at a special media briefing held at the Government Information Department, ASP Wootler outlined progress under the “Nation United – National Drive Programme,” highlighting significant gains made in disrupting drug trafficking networks across the country.

He revealed that in 2024, police confiscated a combined total of 10,871 kilograms of illegal substances, including heroin, cannabis, crystal methamphetamine, hashish and cocaine. The following year, seizures surged dramatically.

In 2025 alone, authorities intercepted 23,692 kilograms and 307 grams of narcotics—more than double the quantity seized the previous year. Officials described the figures as unprecedented, attributing the increase to enhanced intelligence-led operations, tighter coastal surveillance and closer coordination among enforcement agencies.

Police say the latest results demonstrate a renewed commitment to tackling the drug trade and reducing its social and economic impact, while signalling tougher action against organised criminal networks involved in narcotics trafficking.