Sri Lanka, Sept. 26 -- Drug trafficking networks are using different maritime routes to smuggle various types of narcotics and other contraband into Sri Lanka, with the Northern Sea and Arabian Sea emerging as key routes for different categories of illicit cargo, according to the Sri Lanka Navy.

The Sri Lanka Navy has seized illicit drugs estimated to be worth more than Rs. 55 billion through maritime and coastal anti-narcotics operations conducted so far this year, Navy Spokesman Commander Chaminda Walakuluge said.

According to the Navy, around 300 suspects and 50 vessels allegedly linked to local and international drug trafficking networks have been taken into custody during the operations.

Detailing the massive hauls recovered duri...