Suspect arrested in Ambalantota with 1,042 illicit foreign cigarettes

A 22 year old person was arrested in Ambalantota on 16 October 2026 following a joint raid by the Sri Lanka Navy and Police, seizing 1,042 illicit foreign cigarettes.

The operation was conducted by personnel from SLNS Kawantissa, under the Southern Naval Command, alongside the Hambantota Harbour Police. The search revealed the consignment of foreign cigarettes, intended for illegal sale.

The suspect, identified as a resident of Ambalantota, was handed over to the Hambantota Harbour Police along with the seized tobacco products for onward legal action.