A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the Ippanthivu sea area, Kalpitiya on 15th May 2024, led to the recovery of approx. 338kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves, attempted to be smuggled into the country.

The Navy nabbed 29 persons for engaging in an assortment of illegal fishing practices, during separate operations conducted in the sea areas of Chundikulam and Kudarappu in Kilinochchi and Talpadu in Mannar on 15th May 2024. The operations also led to the seizure of 11 dinghies, about 210 sea cucumbers, diving equipment and unauthorized fishing gear.

A special search operation mounted by the Navy in Pandaraweli beach vicinity, Silawathura on 14th May 2024 led to the apprehension of 02 individuals who were in the process of preparing about 3500 illegally harvested sea cucumbers for transportation. Along with the stock of sea cucumbers, a cab used for this illegal act was also taken into the naval custody.