A special search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the sea area of Baththalangunduwa, Kalpitiya on 19th February 2024 led to the apprehension of 02 suspects attempting to smuggle in Tendu leaves weighing about 1471kg (wet weight) by a dinghy.
The Navy remains vigilant around the clock and conducts regular search operations and patrols to prevent the influx of illegal items into the island via sea routes.
As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command carried out this special operation off Baththalangunduwa, deploying Inshore Patrol Craft. During the operation, naval personnel intercepted a suspicious dinghy speeding off towards beach and found 42 sacks of Tendu leaves being smuggled. Accordingly, the stock of Tendu leaves, weighing about 1471kg (wet weight), the dinghy and 02 suspects onboard were taken into the naval custody.
The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Kalpitiya, aged 32 and 37. Meanwhile, the suspects along with the seized stock of Tendu leaves and the dinghy will be handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Katunayake for onward legal action.