Story perspectives

22 Buddhist Monks Arrested with $3.45 M Cannabis Haul

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sri Lankan authorities arrested 22 Buddhist monks at Bandaranaike International Airport after seizing over 110 kilograms of cannabis.
Each monk hid about five kilograms of the drug in suitcases with false-bottom compartments.
The monks had returned from Thailand, having departed on April 22.
Police valued the seized cannabis at over $3.45 million (about INR28 crore).
The accused were presented to a Negombo magistrate’s court and face lengthy prison terms if convicted.

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Story summary

Sri Lankan authorities arrested 22 Buddhist monks at Bandaranaike International Airport after seizing over 110 kilograms of cannabis.
Each monk hid about five kilograms of the drug in suitcases with false-bottom compartments.
The monks had returned from Thailand, having departed on April 22.
Police valued the seized cannabis at over $3.45 million (about INR28 crore).
The accused were presented to a Negombo magistrate’s court and face lengthy prison terms if convicted.