The Sri Lanka Navy says it has recovered a cache of T‑56 and M‑16 assault rifles, eight pistols, magazines and other weapons from a multi‑day fishing vessel intercepted in the southern seas.

Navy Spokesman Commander Buddhika Samapath said the vessel was taken into custody while transporting a stock of weapons and narcotics. A consignment of drug‑laden parcels was also found on board the multi‑day fishing craft.

The Navy further detained another multi‑day fishing vessel that had arrived in support of the first vessel. Ten suspects on board the two vessels were arrested.

According to the Navy Spokesman, the vessels and the suspects are being brought to the Dikowita Harbour in Colombo.

The multi‑day boat carrying narcotics and weapons was intercepted in deep southern seas the day before yesterday, during a special naval operation. The second vessel, which had reportedly arrived to assist, was taken into custody yesterday.