Photo: HomeAndSea / Shutterstock A major narcotics haul worth more than Rs. 1.1 billion ($11.6 million or EUR 9.9 million) has been seized at Bandaranaike International Airport in Sri Lanka, with 22 "Buddhist monks" taken into custody, according to information provided by the Sri Lanka Police.
"Twenty-two individuals dressed as Buddhist monks have been arrested by the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake*, while attempting to smuggle a large quantity of narcotics into the country."
The arrests were carried out on Saturday night during a raid by officers from the PNB, acting on prior intelligence received by the Airport Unit.
"The information indicated that a group posing as monks would be transporting illegal drugs on a flight arriving from Bangkok on April 25, 2026. Acting on this intelligence, PNB officers detained the 22 suspects along with their luggage at the airport premises."
The authorities also informed the public that the thorough search carried out in close coordination with Customs officials resulted in discovering the following:
-101 kilograms and 768 grams of Kush
-10 kilograms and 812 grams of Hashish
The apprehended suspects are all Sri Lankan nationals of ages between 20 and 30 who are currently pursuing higher education at various institutions.
The PNB has launched an official investigation to find the "key individuals orchestrating this operation and to determine any links to organized drug trafficking networks within the country."
The narcotics were allegedly found inside false-bottom suitcases, concealed alongside school supplies and assorted sweets.
Investigators believe each of the monks was carrying more than five kilograms of narcotics in their luggage.
Reports from local media also state that the group traveled to Bangkok on airline tickets allegedly arranged by a sponsor. Mobile phone data and evidence reportedly included photos and videos showing the suspects in civilian clothing while abroad.
Officials have described the case as the largest drug seizure ever recorded at Bandaranaike International Airport.