Four Sri Lankan nationals, wanted for their involvement in a drug smuggling network, has been arrested while attempting to leave for the Maldives.

Mohammad Najeem Mohommad Imran alias Kanjipani Imran, Thumbedura Hewa Anushka Kaushal alias Janga, Amila Sampath Sepala Ratnayaka and Anderson Fernandez, are now in the custody of Sri Lankan authorities.

The four men were deported from Dubai of the United Arab Emirates, and arrested upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport.

“The suspects were planning to embark for the Maldives via BIA but the attempt was foiled by the Police," a police spokesperson told Sri Lankan media. 

The men are accused of being complicit in drug trafficking and various violent crimes associated with the network, the leader of which was recently arrested in Dubai.