Customs authorities at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, have apprehended 22 Buddhist monks following the discovery of 110 kilograms of high-grade cannabis in their possession. According to a report published by the BBC on Monday, 27 April, the detained individuals are student monks who were returning to Sri Lanka after a four-day excursion to Thailand.
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Details of the Seizure and Arrests
The group was intercepted by customs officials immediately upon their arrival at the terminal. During a thorough inspection of their baggage, officers discovered approximately 5 kilograms of “Kush”—a potent variety of cannabis—concealed within each monk’s luggage.
The investigation revealed that the four-day trip to Thailand had been fully funded by an unidentified donor. While the 22 student monks were detained at the airport, a 23rd monk, identified as the primary organiser of the trip, was subsequently arrested by police in a suburb of Colombo.
Summary of the Narcotics Operation
| Feature | Details |
| Total Quantity Seized | 110 Kilograms |
| Type of Narcotic | High-grade Cannabis (Kush) |
| Number of Detainees | 22 Student Monks + 1 Organiser |
| Point of Origin | Thailand |
| Arrival Location | Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo |
| Concealment Method | Inside school supplies and confectionery packets |
| Per-person Weight | Approximately 5 Kilograms per monk |
Investigative Findings
Following the arrests, the Sri Lankan Police and the Police Narcotic Bureau (PNB) launched a comprehensive investigation into the logistics of the smuggling attempt. Information provided by the police indicates that the organising monk had misled the students regarding the contents of their luggage. He reportedly informed the group that the packages were “donations” to be delivered to Sri Lanka and that a van would be waiting outside the airport to collect the items.
The Police Narcotic Bureau conducted forensic examinations of the monks’ mobile phones. These searches uncovered several photographs and videos showing the monks dressed in lay clothing (civilian attire) while holidaying in Thailand, a departure from their traditional monastic conduct.
Context and Current Status
Preliminary investigations suggest that the student monks may have been unaware of the illegal nature of the cargo. The narcotics were expertly hidden inside packets of sweets and educational materials to evade detection.
This incident marks the first time in Sri Lanka’s history that a large group of the clergy has been implicated in a narcotics trafficking operation at the national airport. The case has generated significant public interest and scrutiny across the country. Authorities are continuing their inquiries to identify the “anonymous donor” who finanBangladesced the trip and to determine the extent of the international trafficking network involved. The suspects remain in custody pending further legal proceedings under the country’s strict narcotics laws.