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Monks detained at Colombo airport with concealed drugs
Sri Lankan customs officials arrested 22 Buddhist monks on Saturday after discovering 110 kilograms of cannabis hidden in their suitcases upon arrival from Thailand.
Discovery of narcotics
Each monk carried approximately 5 kilograms of Kush, a potent strain of cannabis, concealed within false compartments in their luggage. The drugs were found alongside school supplies and sweets, authorities said.
Customs officers described the seizure as one of the largest involving religious figures at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Trip details and sponsor
The monks, primarily students from temples across Sri Lanka, were returning from a four-day, all-expenses-paid holiday in Thailand. The trip was organized by an unnamed sponsor, according to police.
Investigators later arrested a 23rd monk in a Colombo suburb. This individual, who did not travel with the group, allegedly told the monks the parcels were "a donation" and that a vehicle would collect them after arrival.
Evidence and police statements
The Police Narcotics Bureau found photos and videos on the monks' mobile phones showing them in casual clothing during the trip. Authorities suggested the monks may not have been aware of the contents of their luggage.
"These parcels were presented as donations," an acting police spokesman told BBC Sinhala.
Sri Lanka Police
Legal proceedings
The 22 detained monks appeared in court on Sunday and were remanded in custody for seven days for further questioning. Police are investigating whether the group knew they were transporting illegal substances.
Officials noted this appears to be the first instance of a group of monks being arrested for suspected drug smuggling at the airport.
