Authorities in Sri Lanka have detained 22 Buddhist monks after customs officers discovered about 240 pounds (110 kilograms) of high-grade cannabis hidden in their luggage at Bandaranaike International Airport. Officials said the haul is the largest cannabis seizure ever recorded at the country’s main international gateway.
Customs officers stopped the group during routine checks after they arrived from Bangkok. Investigators said the monks, many of them junior trainees from temples across Sri Lanka, each carried roughly 11 pounds (5 kilograms) of cannabis concealed in suitcases fitted with false compartments.
A spokesperson for Sri Lanka Customs said officers grew suspicious during screening and conducted further inspections. Those checks led to the discovery of the hidden drugs.
The group had spent four days in Bangkok before returning to Colombo, authorities said. The cannabis, commonly known as “kush,” is considered a potent and high-value strain. Investigators are working to determine whether the operation was organized and whether the monks were aware of what they were carrying.
Video clips circulating on social media appear to show some monks covering their faces with their robes while being escorted by officials. Authorities have not verified the footage but confirmed that all suspects remain in custody.
Police said the monks were handed over by customs officers and brought before a magistrate on Sunday. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as the investigation develops.
22 Buddhist monks were detained earlier today for smuggling 243 lbs (110 kg) of weed through a Sri Lankan airport pic.twitter.com/2NacgLB3Hd
— internet hall of fame (@InternetH0F) April 27, 2026
Officials estimated the value of the seized drugs at about $3.4 million (1.1 billion Sri Lankan rupees). The scale of the case has raised concern, particularly due to the involvement of religious figures.
The Daily News reported that the trip may have been sponsored. It also said mobile phone data showed the group wearing lay clothing during their stay, rather than traditional robes. Authorities have not independently confirmed these details.
Police said a 23rd monk was arrested in a suburb of Colombo. Investigators believe he may have organized the trip but did not travel with the group. According to a police spokesperson speaking to BBC World Service’s Sinhalese service, the suspect allegedly told the monks the parcels were donations and that a vehicle would collect them upon arrival.
Investigators said efforts are ongoing to trace the origin of the cannabis and identify any links to international trafficking networks. Authorities said the case will proceed under standard legal procedures, regardless of the suspects’ religious status.
