Sri Lanka: more than 14,000 arrests for suspected drug trafficking War Christmas in the Holy Land: more duty than joy

Police in the island state of Sri Lanka have so far arrested more than 14,000 people in a nationwide raid on suspicion of drug trafficking.

A police spokesperson said on Monday about the arrests, which have been going on for a week, that those affected are people who are said to have sold or consumed the banned substances. Some people have now been released on bail to prevent overcrowding in prisons, as it was called. However, their personal details have been registered and they will have to appear in court later.

The government in Colombo called for an investigation because the drug trade has been flourishing in Sri Lanka for years. According to police, the tropical island paradise south of India is also an international drug trafficking hub. Most substances are smuggled into the country by sea, where children consume them themselves. Cannabis would also be grown domestically. According to official information, there are currently more than 25,000 people in prison in connection with drug trafficking – a crime punishable by death.

During the current raid on homes, shops and vehicles, officers seized more than ten kilos of heroin and other drugs. They also seized vehicles, real estate and boats that the perpetrators allegedly bought with their profits. (cst/sda/dpa)