A surprising and serious incident has come to light involving a group of Buddhist monks in Sri Lanka. Authorities at the country’s main international airport made a record drug seizure after discovering a large quantity of cannabis hidden in their luggage. The case has raised questions about drug smuggling networks and how such operations are carried out.
Monks Arrested at Airport with Large Drug Haul
Officials confirmed that 22 monks were arrested after arriving from Thailand. According to Sri Lanka Customs, the group was carrying around 242 pounds of a strong form of cannabis known as Kush.
The drugs were reportedly hidden inside specially modified suitcases. Each monk was said to be carrying about five kilograms of the substance, concealed within false compartments in their luggage.
Details of the Trip and Arrest
The monks had been on a short four-day trip to Bangkok, which was reportedly sponsored by a businessman. Most of them were young students from temples across Sri Lanka.
After landing at the airport, officials became suspicious and carried out checks, which led to the discovery of the drugs. The group was then handed over to the police and is expected to face legal proceedings.
Record Seizure at the Airport
Authorities described this as the largest single detection of Kush at the country’s main airport. It highlights the growing concern around drug trafficking routes in the region, especially involving international travel.
Officials have been increasing their monitoring efforts due to repeated cases of smuggling through airports and coastal areas.
Previous Drug Cases in Sri Lanka
This is not the first time Sri Lanka has seen large drug seizures. In the past, authorities have caught individuals attempting to smuggle substances like cocaine, heroin, and cannabis.
One notable case involved Charlotte May Lee, a British woman arrested in 2025 after being found with a large quantity of cannabis. She had claimed that the drugs were placed in her luggage without her knowledge.
Similar Incidents Involving Monks
While rare, there have been previous cases involving monks and drug-related issues. In 2022, an entire group of monks in Thailand was removed from their duties after testing positive for drugs. In another case, a monk in Myanmar was arrested after authorities found millions of methamphetamine pills linked to him.
These incidents, though uncommon, have drawn attention to the misuse of religious identity in illegal activities.
Investigation and Legal Action
The arrested monks are expected to be produced before a magistrate, and further investigation will likely focus on how the drugs were obtained and whether a larger network is involved.
Authorities will also try to determine if the monks were knowingly involved or if they were used by others as part of a smuggling operation.
