DIICOT conducts 15 raids on Sri Lankan trafficking group: young man dies of overdose at party
DIICOT prosecutors have carried out 15 raids in Bucharest, Ilfov and Dâmbovița targeting a group of 12 Sri Lankan nationals accused of drug trafficking. The investigation was launched after a young man died following a cocktail of substances at a party organised by members of the group.
DIICOT conducts 15 raids on Sri Lankan trafficking group: young man dies of overdose at party
On Monday, 22 June 2026, prosecutors from DIICOT – Central Structure, supported by officers from the Organised Crime Fighting Brigade of Bucharest, executed 15 home search warrants in the capital and in Ilfov and Dâmbovița counties. The target of the operation was a network of 12 individuals from Sri Lanka suspected of consistently selling high-risk and very high-risk drugs, according to a statement cited by News.ro.
The suspects are employed with work permits in Romania from 2024. Investigators estimate that for at least one year, they have built a criminal structure in which each member had a clearly defined role: some were responsible for bringing in narcotics, others for storage, and others for sales to buyers.
The drugs were marketed through several channels. Some transactions took place directly from apartments used as distribution points. Another part occurred at events and parties aimed at the Sri Lankan community in Bucharest. The investigators' documentation revealed preparatory meetings, management of properties converted into storage and sales points, coordination of supplies, and also planning of international transport with hidden substances.
The investigation was triggered following a fatal incident on the night of 29 to 30 June 2025. One of the network members organised a private party attended by over 200 guests, including other accomplices. During the event, narcotics were sold. A young participant died after consuming a mixture of cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, ecstasy and ketamine, which caused cardio-respiratory arrest through its depressant effect on the central nervous system.
During the investigation, law enforcement seized quantities of cannabis, cannabis resin, cocaine, ecstasy tablets and methamphetamine, found in both Bucharest and localities in Ilfov county.
Interviews are taking place at the headquarters of DIICOT – Central Structure. Officers from the Special Intervention Brigade of the Gendarmerie provided operational support.
Source: News.ro