Navy nabs 02 suspect with a large haul of smuggled Kendu leaves and foreign fags in Kalpitiya

A search operation conducted by the Navy in the lagoon area of Serakkuliya, Kalpitiya on 12 Aug 25 led to the interception of 02 dinghies for smuggling approx. 1,180kg consignment of Kendu leaves and 20,000 foreign cigarettes. The operation also resulted in the apprehension of 02 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 lagoon area of Serakkuliya, where the 02 dinghies loaded with Kendu leaves and foreign fags were intercepted, along with 02 suspects. The consignment of these tobacco products were stuffed in 38 sacks.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Kalpitiya, aged 23 and 45. The suspects together with seized items were handed over to the Special Unit of Excise Department in Puttalam for onward legal action.