Vavuniya, August 3, 2025 — In a major security breakthrough, Sri Lankan authorities uncovered a cache of 86 hand grenades, live ammunition, and a quantity of narcotic drugs during a joint search operation conducted in the northern district of Vavuniya, officials confirmed on Sunday.
The discovery was made following a coordinated intelligence-led sweep involving the Sri Lanka Army, Police Special Task Force, and narcotics control units, targeting suspected hideouts in the region. The operation, which lasted several hours, focused on forested and abandoned areas frequently used for illicit activity.
Security personnel reported seizing 86 live hand grenades, several rounds of military-grade ammunition, and an undisclosed amount of illegal substances, believed to include cannabis and methamphetamine. The seized items were found buried in containers and hidden in makeshift bunkers, suggesting long-term concealment and possible links to organized criminal or extremist elements.
Initial investigations have led to the detention of several suspects for questioning. Authorities believe the location may have been part of a broader smuggling or arms trafficking network operating across the northern province.
“We consider this a significant seizure. It highlights the importance of ongoing intelligence-sharing between agencies to prevent weapons and narcotics from circulating in our communities,” a senior police official stated.
The discovery has raised concerns over the continued presence of hidden munitions in former conflict zones, as well as the growing nexus between arms trafficking and drug distribution in parts of the island.
The suspects remain in custody under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, while further investigations are underway to determine the origin of the weapons and the intended distribution network. Security in the area has been tightened, and additional search operations are expected in the coming days.
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