The use of narcotic drugs in Sri Lanka has been in existence since time immemorial. Some of these drugs are Cannabis and Opium, which have been extensively used for medical purpose in our Indigenous and Ayurvedic preparations. The abuse of drugs in Sri Lanka is of recent origin whilst the use soft drugs appear to have existed as far back as the 17th century. The Dutch Colonial Rulers had issued a proclamation in 1675 prohibiting the trafficking in drugs. Yet over the years it has not led to epidemic proportions nor has it had a telling effect on society.
The Police Narcotics Bureau ( PNB ) was initially established in 1973 and has stepped-up it's wings from data collection to drug law enforcement with improved resources and presently it functions from the 03 rd Floor of the New Secretariat Building, Colombo 01 and the 01st  sub unit of the PNB was established at the Bandaranaike International Airport in 1992.