(TNND) — Twenty-two Buddhist monks were arrested at the international airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after authorities caught them in possession of more than 110 kilograms of cannabis, which is illegal in the South Asian nation.

Officials said the men were returning from Thailand with suitcases featuring false bottoms, each concealing more than five kilograms (11 lbs) of cannabis at Bandaranaike International Airport, according to the state-owned Daily News. The drugs, identified as “Kush” and “hashish,” were hidden alongside school supplies and various sweets.

Authorities say this marks the first time a group of Buddhist monks has been arrested at the airport for carrying illegal drugs. The monks, reportedly young men and based in Sri Lanka for higher education, had traveled to Thailand on April 22 using tickets provided by a sponsor.

The estimated value of the drugs exceeds $3.45 million (1.1 billion rupees), the outlet reported.

The monks are expected to appear before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court for further legal proceedings.

Sri Lanka imposes severe penalties for drug offenses, with those convicted facing lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines, according to the UK Foreign Office. Airports in the country also employ advanced screening technology to detect illegal items in baggage.