Record drug seizures in 2025 as Police haul doubles from 2024

Saturday, 24 January 2026 05:50 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Law enforcement authorities recorded the largest volume of drug seizures in recent history in 2025, according to Police Media Spokesperson Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) F.U. Wootler.

Addressing a special media briefing at the Government Information Department yesterday to outline progress under the ‘A Nation United–National Drive’ program, ASP Wootler said Police seized 23,692 kilograms and 307 grams of narcotics in 2025, more than double the 10,871 kilograms seized in 2024.

The seizures included heroin, cannabis, ice, hashish, and cocaine. Cannabis seizures alone rose sharply, increasing from 8,359 kilograms in 2024 to 17,189 kilograms in 2025.

ASP Wootler said that during 2024 and 2025, authorities repatriated 21 drug traffickers who had been evading arrest overseas. Red Notices have been issued against a further 96 suspects currently abroad, with steps under way to secure their extradition.

He added that preliminary legal action has been initiated to confiscate 354 gold sovereigns, while 77 vehicles purchased using illicit funds have been seized. Police have also taken custody of 30 houses, frozen 1,197 perches of land, and restrained assets valued at Rs. 353.9 million.

In addition, 65 special investigations have been launched in connection with the operations, the Police Media Spokesperson said.