Navy nabs 04 suspects with smuggled pharmaceutical products in Kalpitiya

In a decisive blow to maritime trafficking, the Sri Lanka Navy seized a major shipment of smuggled items, a dingy and apprehended 04 suspects during a special search operation conducted in the Ippantivu and Karuwalakuda areas in Kalpitiya on 06 Nov 25.

Remaining constantly vigilant, the Navy continues to conduct regular coastal patrols and search operations to prevent illegal activities, including smuggling attempts via sea routes.

The operation was mounted by the Naval Detachment Uchchamuni of SLNS Vijaya belonging to the Northwestern Naval Command in the Ippanthivu sea area and Karuwalakuda beach. During the operation, naval personnel inspected a suspicious dinghy that had arrived at the Karuwalakuda beach area. The inspection led to the seizure of a significant stock of smuggled pharmaceutical products. Among the seized items were 4605 medicinal pills, 15,627 medicinal ointments, 494 liquid medicinal bottles and 4020 medicinal packets in 17 sacks.

The four suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of the Thorayadi area in Kalpitiya between the ages of 25 and 32. The suspects, the seized stock of smuggled items, and the dinghy were handed over to the Katunayake Customs Preventive Office for subsequent legal proceedings.