Twenty-two monks, who had just returned from Thailand, were arrested at a Sri Lankan airport after authorities discovered a total of 110 kilograms of cannabis hidden in their luggage.
Foreign news agencies reported on 27 Apr 2026 that 22 monks returning from Thailand were arrested at Colombo airport in Sri Lanka last Saturday after officials found 110 kg of cannabis hidden in "secret compartments" inside their suitcases.
Customs officials stated that each monk was found to be carrying about 5 kilograms of "Kush" cannabis, a potent strain, concealed in secret compartments mixed with study materials and snacks.
The group of monks, mostly students, were detained while returning from Thailand after completing a four-day trip sponsored by an anonymous benefactor who covered all expenses.
Police told BBC Sinhala that authorities are now arresting a 23rd monk in the Colombo suburbs, believed to be the organizer of the trip. This 23rd monk did not travel with the group but told the others that “these packages are donations” and that a van would pick them up after their arrival.
Additionally, Sri Lanka’s Drug Enforcement Agency found photos and videos on some monks’ mobile phones, showing them from various temples across Sri Lanka enjoying their leisure time and wearing casual clothes during the trip.
After being brought to court last Sunday, all 22 monks were remanded for seven days for further investigation.
However, local police told BBC Sinhala they believe it is possible the monks were unaware of what they were carrying.
This is believed to be the first time in Sri Lanka that a group of monks has been arrested as suspects for smuggling drugs into the country through an airport.
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Source:bbc