Vigilance of Navy foils gold smuggling attempt in Kalpitiya

A search operation conducted by the Navy in the sea area of Arichchal in Kalpitiya on 01 Oct 25, led to the interception of a dinghy with 02 suspects, attempting to smuggle about 04kg and 454g of gold

The Navy carries out regular search operations and patrols in the coastal and sea areas around the island, with a view to preventing an assortment of nefarious activities stemming via sea routes.

On receipt of credible information by the Northwestern Naval Command, the operation was conducted by SLNS Vijaya in the sea area of Arichchal. During the operation, naval personnel intercepted a suspicious dinghy in the sea area and carried out a thorough search. The search led to the recovery of approximately 4kg and 454g of gold, niftily concealed as 13 fishing net weight sinkers. Incidentally, the consignment of gold, the dinghy and 02 suspects were taken into naval custody.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Wendesiwatta and Anawasala in Kalpitiya. The suspects together with seized items was handed over to the Customs Preventive Office, Katunayake for onward legal action.