The Navy on Tuesday (14) recovered 51 sacks containing 839 kg of heroin, crystal methamphetamine (ICE) and hashish floating in the southern seas. The recovered consignment was offloaded at the Tangalle Fisheries Harbour.
An expert examination by the Police Narcotics Bureau confirmed 670 kg and 676 g of methamphetamine, 156 kg and 542 g of heroin and 12 kg and 036 g of hashish.
Authorities believe the smugglers had thrown the consignment into the sea fearing possible interception by the Navy. The STF later arrested five persons involved in the smuggling bid and also recovered the boat used by them.