Sri Lanka to install port container scanners following major drug seizure

Sri Lanka plans to install advanced container scanners at its major ports to combat narcotics smuggling. Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala announced the initiative, stating that the government aims to tighten port controls and prevent illicit drugs from entering the country via cargo shipments.

The decision follows a major seizure at the Colombo Port in August, where authorities discovered approximately 471 kg of crystal methamphetamine, locally known as “Ice,” concealed inside towels within containers arriving from Pakistan. The shipment, which had a street value exceeding Rs 8 billion, was intercepted following intelligence provided by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Authorities noted that current manual inspection processes only cover a fraction of imports, leaving vulnerabilities that sophisticated trafficking networks exploit. The new scanning technology is intended to allow for non-invasive inspections to detect hidden compartments and unusual densities within high-volume container trade. In addition to port upgrades, the government is increasing scrutiny on courier services and the Central Mail Exchange.