CID Launches Major Probe to Arrest 18 Underworld Figures Hiding in Dubai and Europe

Colombo, Sri Lanka — The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an extensive investigation to arrest 18 powerful underworld leaders who are reportedly hiding in Dubai and other European countries, from where they orchestrate various crimes and drug trafficking operations in Sri Lanka. This information was reported today by the Mawbima newspaper, citing CID sources.

According to the report, the CID has already obtained information regarding the identities and locations of these 18 individuals and is closely monitoring them.

A total of 75 organized criminals from Sri Lanka, who are currently hiding abroad, have had Red Notices issued against them. Of these, four are already in the custody of police and security forces in their respective countries. Some are in remand custody as legal proceedings are underway against them. Once these investigations are completed, they will be brought back to Sri Lanka.

To facilitate the arrest and extradition of the 18 new suspects, the CID is reportedly engaged in diplomatic-level discussions with the assistance of Interpol. Many of these criminals, who fled the country after committing murders, shootings, extortion, and other underworld activities, have brought their families to these countries and continue to run their criminal networks from there.

Police sources also indicated that a number of prominent organized criminals are now fearful following the recent secret operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Police in collaboration with the Indonesian Police.

Under the guidance of the Inspector General of Police and the supervision of Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police Asanka Karawita, several special police teams are conducting investigations to arrest these suspects and bring them back to Sri Lanka.