Navy thwarts smuggling attempt; 02 suspects apprehended with 98kg of cardamom

The Sri Lanka Navy ward off a smuggling attempt in the seas of Kirimundalama, Kalpitiya on 31 Mar 26, seizing about 98kg haul of cardamom and apprehending 02 individuals involved in the illegal transfer.

During the search operation conducted by SLNS Vijaya of the Northwestern Naval Command, naval personnel spotted a suspicious dinghy navigating the waters of Kirimundalama. Upon closer inspection and a thorough search of the craft, the team discovered approximately 98kg of cardamom, which was being smuggled into the country.

The two suspects taken into naval custody have been identified as residents of the Kalpitiya area, aged 19 and 41. Following the seizure, the suspects, along with the dinghy and the recovered consignment of cardamom, were handed over to the Katunayake Customs Preventive Office for further investigation and onward legal proceedings.