Sri Lankan media reported on Monday that the Sri Lankan Police Narcotics Bureau arrested 22 monks arriving from Thailand at Bandaranaike International Airport and seized over 110 kilograms of drugs, with approximately 5 kilograms carried by each person. The confiscated drugs were high-potency cannabis, cleverly concealed within the linings of suitcases and brought into the country from Thailand.
It is reported that most of the involved monks were young novices from various temples across Sri Lanka, and this trip was sponsored by a businessman who recruited participants via social media by offering "free airfare, accommodation, and meals" as incentives.
Police indicated that an elder named Agunukalaye did not accompany the group but was accused of misleading others beforehand by claiming the items in the luggage were donations, and had arranged vehicles to receive the related luggage upon arrival. Law enforcement later found photos and videos on some monks’ phones showing them in casual attire and vacationing during the trip. It is not ruled out that some of those involved may have been unaware that their luggage contained drugs, and some cannabis was also found mixed in with stationery and candy.
Following the incident, Elder Agunukalaye was detained by police on suspicion of assisting and facilitating drug trafficking. The Police Narcotics Bureau reported to the court that the suspect was arrested in accordance with Section 54 (1) of the Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, on charges of assisting and supporting transactions involving banned substances. Additionally, the suspect has undergone a medical examination, with blood tests indicating the presence of drugs in his system. Police also seized three mobile phones from him and found WhatsApp groups used to coordinate drug deals.
Police have applied to the court to continue the detention for further investigation. The suspect monks’ lawyer stated that for now they will not be applying for bail and will consider this in later proceedings. During the court hearing, the assistant judge asked if the suspect had any additional statements, to which he replied that the matter arose due to ignorance. After reviewing the relevant statements, the court approved continuing the 7-day detention for investigation.