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Major Drug Bust: 22 Monks Arrested in Sri Lanka with Cannabis

KVIA•Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 8:39 AM•CNN Newsource

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In a significant operation at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lankan authorities arrested 22 Buddhist monks for possessing over 110 kilograms of cannabis, marking the largest drug seizure at the airport. The monks, returning from Thailand, were found with suitcases containing more than five kilograms of the drug each, hidden in specially modified false bottoms. The estimated street value of the cannabis exceeds $3.45 million. This incident is notable as it is the first time Buddhist monks have been apprehended for drug offenses at the airport, prompting an investigation into potential connections with local drug trafficking networks. The monks are set to appear in court for further legal proceedings.

Key Details: • Arrest occurred at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. • The monks were returning from Thailand, having traveled on tickets sponsored by an unidentified source. • The cannabis has an estimated value of over $3.45 million. • The monks will face legal proceedings at Negombo Magistrate’s Court.

airport cannabis drug-bust sri-lanka buddhist-monks

People & Organizations

Sri LankaColomboBandaranaike International AirportSri Lanka Police Narcotics Bureau

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