Sri Lankan authorities arrested 22 Buddhist monks over the weekend after customs officials discovered more than 240 pounds of cannabis hidden in their luggage at Bandaranaike International Airport.

Officials said the group was returning from a four-day trip when inspectors found what they described as concealed compartments inside multiple suitcases containing “Kush,” a high-potency strain of cannabis.

A Sri Lanka Customs spokesperson said each individual carried approximately five kilograms of the substance, which had been hidden within false panels in their bags.

Authorities stated the group consisted primarily of young students affiliated with Buddhist institutions across Sri Lanka. Officials also said the trip had been funded by a private businessman, though no additional details were immediately provided.

The seizure is being described by customs officials as the largest single detection of Kush at the airport to date.

Law enforcement officials have not yet announced charges or provided further details on the investigation into how the narcotics were obtained or transported.

Sri Lankan authorities have previously intercepted significant drug shipments at ports and airports, including heroin and other narcotics smuggled through maritime routes and concealed transport methods.

Officials said the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine the origin of the drugs and whether additional individuals or networks were involved.