Navy nabs 03 suspects with 979kg of smuggled ginger in Kalpitiya

A search operation conducted by the Navy in the Eththalai Lagoon area of Kalpitiya on 01 Jul 25 led to the interception of 03 dinghies for smuggling 979kg consignment of dried ginger. The search also resulted in the apprehension of 03 suspects in connection to the illegal act.

The Sri Lanka Navy remains ever alert and conducts patrols and search operations in the coastal areas of the island to prevent the influx of illegal items into the country, taking into account the economic impact and national security risks attached to such activities.

As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command carried out this operation in the Eththalai Lagoon where the 03 dinghies loaded with dried ginger were intercepted and 03 suspects involved in the racket were apprehended. The 979kg consignment of dried ginger were stuffed in 33 sacks.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Kalpitiya, from 25 to 41 years of age. The suspects together with seized items were handed over to the Customs Preventive Office, Katunayake for onward legal action.