Navy thwarts smuggling attempt: over 830 kg of Kendu leaves seized in Mannar

The Sri Lanka Navy seized a massive haul of smuggled Kendu leaves weighing over 830 kg during separate search operations conducted in Mannar on 15 and 16 May 26.

The operations, executed by SLNS Thammanna and SLNS Gajaba of the North Central Naval Command in the northern seas of Mannar and the Nadukuda coastal belt. The operation led to the discovery of 12 suspicious sacks, stuffed with Kendu leaves, believed to have been abandoned by the smugglers due to heightened naval surveillance in the area.

The entire consignment of seized items remains secured under naval custody, until formal legal proceedings get underway.