Navy nabs suspect with 3440kg of smuggled Tendu leaves in Kalpitiya

A special search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the beach area of Ilanthadiya, Kalpitiya on 03rd March 2024, led to the apprehension of a suspect (01) with about 3440kg of Tendu leaves, believed to have been smuggled.

The Navy remains vigilant around the clock and conducts regular search operations and patrols to prevent the influx of illegal items into the island via sea routes.

As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command carried out this special operation in the beach area of Ilanthadiya in the wee hours of 03rd March. The search resulted in the apprehension of one (01) suspect and the seizure of 111 parcels in the beach vicinity. Following further inspection, the Navy recovered that the parcels had been stuffed with Tendu leaves, weighing approx. 3440kg.

The suspect held in this operation was identified as a resident of Norochcholai, aged 29. The suspect along with the consignment of Tendu leaves was handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Katunayake for onward legal action.