President to participate in religious conference marking first anniversary of Ratama Ekata operation

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will participate in a religious conference marking the first anniversary of the “Ratama Ekata” national operation against illicit drugs. The conference will be held tomorrow (5) at 2.00 p.m. at Temple Trees, Colombo.

The national operation was launched on October 30, 2025, under the patronage of the President at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. It aims to eliminate the drug menace in Sri Lanka by disrupting drug supplies, reducing demand, dismantling drug trafficking networks and strengthening law enforcement.

Police Media Division reports said 310,984 drug raids were conducted during the first year, resulting in the arrest of more than 300,000 suspects. Over 18 tonnes of narcotics were seized during this period. The seized drugs included approximately 2,836 kg of heroin, 3,551 kg of crystal methamphetamine (Ice), 11,169 kg of cannabis, 297 kg of cocaine and 431 kg of hashish.

The Sri Lanka Navy seized narcotics valued at approximately Rs. 109 billion during the year, according to information presented by Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister of Health Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

The conference aims to obtain the guidance and participation of religious leaders in combating the drug menace and further strengthen collective social efforts towards building a drug-free Sri Lanka.