Navy recovers large stocks of smuggled Kendu leaves and dried ginger during separate operations in Negombo

The Sri Lanka Navy, during separate search operations in the coastal areas of Kuttiduwa and Kudapaduwa in Negombo on 29 Jul 25, took hold of over 1285kg of smuggled Kendu leaves, more than 604kg of dried ginger and a box of medicinal tubes. The operations also led to the seizure of 02 dinghies used for the act of smuggling.

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 which affect socio economic stability and security of the country.

The Western Naval Command, during a search operation in the coastal area of Kuttiduwa, Negombo, recovered 02 dinghies with 40 suspicious sacks. Upon inspection, naval personnel found over 1,285kg of Kendu leaves, believed to have been abandoned by smugglers, due to the Navy's heightened surveillance in the region. Additionally, both dinghies were taken into naval custody.

In another search operation carried out along the Kudapaduwa coastline in Negombo, the Navy recovered 16 suspicious sacks and 01 box at the shore. Upon inspection, the consignment was found to contain over 604kg of dried ginger and 860 medicinal tubes suspected to have been smuggled into the country. It is believed that the items were left behind by smugglers, due to constant naval presence in the area.

The items held in these operations were handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Katunayake for onward legal proceedings.