Heroin Trafficker Arrested With Guns and Live Ammo

COLOMBO (News 1st); A cache of illegal firearms, T-56 ammunition and heroin has been seized following a major operation carried out by the Western Province North Crimes Division, leading to the arrest of a suspect believed to be linked to a narcotics supply network.

Police said the operation led to the recovery of five locally manufactured T-katas type firearms, two locally manufactured gal-katas type firearms, four T-56 rifle magazines, 95 rounds of T-56 ammunition, 436 rounds of live ammunition of various calibres, and two pairs of handcuffs.

The suspect was also found in possession of 2 kilograms and 5 grams of heroin, according to police.

Investigators said the arrest resulted from an earlier operation carried out on September 12, during which a resident of Kotikawatta was taken into custody with 5 grams and 600 milligrams of the narcotic substance known as Ice.

Police obtained a seven-day detention order and questioned the suspect, leading to information about an alleged drug supplier operating from the Webada area of Weliweriya.

Acting on that intelligence, officers arrested the second suspect and recovered the heroin, firearms and ammunition during the operation.

The suspect was later produced before the Aluthkade Magistrate’s Court, where police secured a seven-day detention order to facilitate further investigations.