Sri Lanka Launches Major Crackdown on Drugs

Sri Lanka has long been considered an international hub for drug trafficking due to local criminal groups, which has become a serious concern for the country’s authorities. In addition, more and more schoolchildren have started using drugs, and the number of drug-related crimes continues to rise.

In December, Sri Lankan authorities launched “Operation Yukthiya,” which means “justice.” In just two months, more than 40,000 people have already been arrested! Acting Police Chief Deshabandu Tennakoon reported that 65% of the drug trade has already been eliminated.

The arrests targeted those suspected of drug dealing or drug addiction, as well as people who had previously been prosecuted for drug offenses. In the first weeks of the operation, over 1,000 people suspected of drug addiction were forcibly sent to rehab—rehab facilities run by the Sri Lankan armed forces.

So, kids, maybe skip Sri Lanka for your next vacation. Choose other tourist destinations where you won’t get arrested for a joint.