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Investigators peel back layers to find political links of detained underworld figures
View(s):By Ishu Bandara
Recent drug busts and arrests have uncovered not only the dealers but also unearthed details on underworld operations, links with security forces figures and police leading to the detection of large caches of weapons.
The recent arrest of organised crime suspect Mandinu Padmasiri, also known as Kehelbaddara Padme, in Indonesia is yielding significant results for investigators. Currently being questioned by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rohan Olugala of the Western Province Northern Crime Division, suspect Padme has provided information that led to the discovery of a hidden weapons cache near the Peliyagoda Fish Market on September 26. Police recovered over 520 rounds of T-56 ammunition, four T-56 magazines, a micro pistol, handcuffs, and an army uniform from the site.
Containers used to make ice found at a restaurant in Hambantota
When the Sunday Times asked about the status of Sampath Manamperi, who had been questioned by the CID and handed over to the Western Province Northern Crime Division, ASP Olugala said that questioning begins later that night on September 26.
Middeniya: Raw material that had been brought to make ice
Sampath Manamperi, a ‘Pohottuwa’ politician, has been arrested in connection with a drug manufacturing operation linked to the discovery of two containers of chemicals suspected to be used in the production of “ice.” The Walasmulla Magistrate’s Court granted authorities permission to detain and interrogate Mr Manamperi for 90 days, allowing an extended period of questioning in custody.
In the meantime, a Ceylon Electricity Board employee has been arrested by the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) for allegedly providing accommodation to Mr Manamperi. He remains in custody over the discovery of buried chemical containers suspected to be used in manufacturing “ice” in Middeniya.
Throughout 2025, nationwide crackdowns have exposed the vast and interconnected network of crime and narcotics in Sri Lanka.
Newly-released statistics show that authorities seized thousands of kilograms of drugs and hundreds of illegal firearms during the year.
The year has also been marked by significant violence, with operations running parallel to high profile arrests and investigations into prominent underworld figures. The government has urged patience on naming involved politicians, warning that premature disclosures could jeopardise investigations.
Official police reports highlight the intensity of operations this year.
From January 1 to September 22, 2025, authorities documented 99 shooting incidents, resulting in 50 deaths and 56 injuries. Organized crime was linked to 74 of the shootings, which caused 44 of the deaths and 44 injuries. Additionally, 11 attempted shootings by organized criminal elements were recorded during this period.
Drug seizures have also been significant. Between January 1 and September 22, authorities confiscated 1,243 kilos of heroin, 14,057 kg of cannabis (ganja), 1,845 kg of “Ice” (crystal methamphetamine), 29 kg of cocaine, and 472 kg of hashish. In total, 3,567,304 narcotic related items (drug pills) were seized, and 164,425 people were arrested in police operations.
Major drug bust in Tangalla following the mysterious deaths of three men
Following the deportation of five most wanted underworld suspects from Indonesia, the detection of weapons has sharply increased. By September 24, authorities had recovered 66 T 56 rifles, 64 pistols, and 46 revolvers, complementing the drug seizures.
Interrogation of Sampath Manamperi is already yielding initial results.
Cabinet spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed that weapons are being recovered based on Manamperi’s statements.
“No one needs to be worried. Investigating agencies are conducting their work properly. This is not an easy task, as the network is spread across a broad area. Investigations reveal the involvement of some security forces and political mechanisms in the network. Police are recovering weapons based on statements by recently arrested local politician Sampath Manamperi,” he said.
In a separate case, Shadhika Lakshani, the wife of another underworld figure known as ‘Backhoe Saman,’ was further remanded until October 9. Arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport on August 29, she is being held under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The Colombo Chief Magistrate has ordered the Criminal Investigation Department to present a summary of evidence linking her to alleged drug trafficking activities in Middeniya.
Amid public pressure to reveal the names of politicians tied to drug and underworld networks, the government has said that releasing such details prematurely would hinder investigations.
Ice found at a residence in Kandana
Police spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler echoed this stance: “If a name or place is revealed, it may pose a hindrance to the investigations. We will be able to give positive information in the future.”
He detailed recent successes in combating crime and drugs, attributing them to a new found operational independence and public cooperation.
He said: “A major breakthrough occurred after the arrest of suspects from Indonesia, which led investigators to two locations in the Walasmulla area. Excavations at these sites confirmed the presence of ‘ice’ buried in 19 separate spots. Strict legal action will be taken against the suspects under the Poisons, Opium, and Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and its recent amendments.”
According to ASP Wootler as an important achievement in international cooperation, 10 fugitives have been extradited to Sri Lanka to face justice. Red Notices have been issued for 30 more fugitives, with diplomatic efforts underway to secure their return.
The police spokesperson said recent successes are bolstered by increased public trust and information sharing, which has been facilitated by strengthening 14,022 Public Security Committees across the country.
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