Seven Sri Lankan youths deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after being arrested by Abu Dhabi security authorities have arrived in Sri Lanka.

The group arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, on Tuesday (27) night.

According to reports, the individuals had been arrested by Abu Dhabi security authorities over possessing photographs and video footage related to drone and missile attacks linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and for allegedly engaging with such content on social media through “likes” and comments.

The deportees, aged between 23 and 33, are residents of Ambalangoda, Marapana, Borella, Bandaragama, Polonnaruwa and Wattala.

Upon their arrival at the Katunayake Airport, officers attached to the Airport Criminal Investigation Department, the State Intelligence Service and the Police Narcotics Bureau reportedly commenced lengthy questioning of the group.