Sri Lanka, Aug. 6 -- Despite intensified operations to curb drug-related crimes across the country, Sri Lanka is grappling with a growing crisis on two fronts, a surge in drug addiction and a critically overcrowded prison system that has far exceeded its holding capacity.

According to data released by the Public Security Ministry, over 125,000 individuals have been arrested since January 1 this year, with more than 100,000 arrests linked specifically to drug-related offences.

The rise in drug-related arrests points to a growing problem, adding further pressure to prisons that are already struggling with overcrowding.

Currently, Sri Lanka's 36 prison facilities house nearly 34,000 inmates, though their official capacity is only 12,000....