KB manufactured large quantities of crystal meth locally - police

An organised crime syndicate led by Manudinu Padmasiri Perera, alias Kehelbaddara Padme, is believed to have manufactured large quantities of crystal methamphetamine (better known as ICE) in a clandestine facility in Nuwara Eliya and distributed it countrywide.

- HEMANTHA RANDUNU AND NORMAN PALIHAWADANE

Investigations have revealed that chemicals, unearthed recently in Middeniya, had been used for manufacturing ICE. On several occasions, the group attempted large-scale production but failed to meet the demand, according to police sources.

Meanwhile, nearly 50,000 kilos of precursor chemicals, suspected to have been intended for ICE production, were seized from properties at Thalawa, in Middeniya, and at Netolpitiya, in Tangalle, by the Peliyagoda Crimes Division.

It has since been revealed that the chemical stocks were concealed by former SLPP Pradeshiya Sabha member Sampath Manampeiri and his brother Piyal Manamperi. CCTV footage obtained by investigators shows the duo transporting the chemicals by tractor on 01 September to a property in Middeniya Thalawa, where it was buried using a backhoe.