Navy foils smuggling attempt: over 810kg of Kendu leaves seized off Negombo

The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 2 suspects and seized more than 810 kg of Kendu leaves during a search operation off the coast of Negombo on 18 September 2026.

Naval personnel attached to SLNS Kelani in the Western Naval Command intercepted and inspected a suspicious dinghy in the seas off Negombo. A search of the dinghy revealed 21 sacks containing this stock of Kendu leaves.

The suspects, aged 41 and 44, were identified as residents of Negombo. The Navy handed over the individuals, the dinghy, and the consignment of Kendu leaves to the Customs Preventive Office at Katunayake for further legal action.