Customs rejects MP Nalin Bandara’s documentation over seized drone consignment as CID launches probe

Friday, 13 November 2026 04:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

THE Customs has rejected follow-up documentation submitted by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Kurunegala District Parliamentarian Nalin Bandara Jayamaha regarding a consignment of 39 drones and 16 microphones seized at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) earlier this week. Simultaneously, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has appointed a special team to investigate the unauthorized importation.

Customs officers intercepted the Parliamentarian on Sunday, November 8, at approximately 11:23 a.m. upon his arrival at BIA from Singapore aboard SriLankan Airlines flight UL 307. An inspection of his luggage uncovered 39 commercial camera drones—comprising DJI Lito X1, Lito 1, and Neo 2 models—alongside 16 DJI Mic Mini sets.

According to Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa, importing drones into Sri Lanka strictly requires three mandatory regulatory clearances:

n An Import Control Licence (ICL)

n Approval from the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL)

n Clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD)

Following an initial notice, MP Bandara visited the Customs Department on Monday, November 9, to submit paperwork for the detained consignment. However, Punchihewa confirmed that officials could not accept the documents as legally valid approvals. Customs has issued the Parliamentarian a specific deadline to produce the required clearances, warning that formal legal action will be initiated under Customs regulations if he fails to comply.

Addressing the controversy, MP Bandara denied allegations of smuggling or tax evasion, maintaining that he declared the items upon arrival. He stated that the equipment was intended for a family-run camera drone rental and sales business operated by his wife and son, attributing the detention to incomplete Ministry of Defence paperwork.

Meanwhile, on the directives of Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya, the matter has been referred to the CID. Police Media Spokesperson ASP F. U. Wootler confirmed that a dedicated team led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police has been appointed to conduct the criminal investigation, while the Ministry of Defence is expected to carry out a separate technical assessment of the seized devices.