A nationwide police operation targeting drug supply networks resulted in the arrest of 520 suspects within 24 hours during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive period, authorities said.

Officers seized 179 grams of heroin and 228 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ICE) during the sweep. Parallel investigations have been launched into suspected illegal assets held by several detainees, with detention orders sought for six suspects.

In a separate high-profile arrest, the Walana Central Anti-Corruption Unit apprehended a suspected associate of a major Dubai-based drug trafficker in Dummaladeniya, Wennappuwa. Narcotics worth Rs. 7.5 million were seized during the operation.

The crackdown coincides with heightened security deployments during the Avurudu holiday, when police traditionally intensify enforcement operations. Officers have been conducting cross-jurisdiction raids targeting supply networks across the country.

The festive season has seen police balancing drug enforcement with road safety operations, as the holiday period recorded a surge in both traffic accidents and substance-related offences.