In response to a surge in drug trafficking, underworld violence, and gun-related crimes, Sri Lanka’s law enforcement authorities have launched intensified nationwide joint search operations.
The operations, led by the Sri Lanka Police in coordination with the STF, Army, Navy, and Air Force, aim to dismantle criminal networks and restore public safety.
A senior police official stated that the raids are mostly conducted at night and kept confidential until the last moment to prevent suspects from escaping.
The surprise nature of the operations is intended to corner criminal elements before they can flee.
The country has seen a troubling rise in violent crime, with over 60 shootings reported since January, resulting in at least 40 deaths and more than 30 injuries—45 of these shootings are directly linked to underworld activities.
According to police statistics, 28,098 drug raids over the past six months have led to over 94,000 arrests and the seizure of large quantities of narcotics, including 900 kg of heroin, 9,231 kg of cannabis, 1,378 kg of ICE, and 640,986 narcotic pills.
Notable recent operations include overnight raids on July 4 in Kandana, Ja-Ela, Wattala, and Ragama, where over 300 suspects were arrested.
On 5th of Jul a separate operation in Galle, Matara, and Elpitiya led to the arrest of 457 individuals.
Another raid on 6th of July across Ratnapura, Embilipitiya, Seethawakapura, and Kegalle resulted in 120 arrests, including 23 with outstanding warrants.
The Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs confirmed that these search operations will continue island-wide in the coming weeks.
Authorities are calling for public cooperation, emphasizing that community support is vital to ensure lasting safety and success in the national crackdown on organized crime.
