Suspected drug trafficker Shiranth Basnayake handed over to Colombo CID

Suspected major drug trafficker Shiranth Basnayake has been handed over to the Colombo Central Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigations following his extradition from Dubai.

Basnayake, 48, who resides in the Kalubowila area of Dehiwala, was a wanted individual under an Interpol red notice. His arrest in the United Arab Emirates reportedly stemmed from his possession of photographs and video footage on his mobile phone. These materials allegedly depicted drones and missiles that Iran had deployed during its conflict with the United States.

Following his arrest, the United States formally requested the UAE to hand over Basnayake for investigation. The suspect had traveled to the UAE in 2018.

Upon his arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, Basnayake's statements were recorded by officials from the Criminal Investigations Department. He was then transported to the Colombo CID under heavy security arrangements for continued inquiry into his alleged illicit activities.