A smuggled consignment of Kendu Leaves seized in Chilaw Lagoon

A search operation carried out by the Sri Lanka Navy led to the apprehension of 03 dinghies loaded with over 2468kg (wet weight) of smuggled Kendu Leaves in the lagoon area of Chilaw this morning (18th January 2023). During the operation, 03 suspects in connection to the incident were also apprehended.

Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard conduct regular search operations and patrols in the coastal areas of the island, with a view to prevent the influx of contraband into the island. Based on information, the combined operation was carried out by the intelligence staff of the Coast Guard Station Chilaw, intelligence staff of the Western Naval Command and naval personnel attached to the Coast Guard Station Chilaw this morning (18th January). In this operation, 03 suspicious dinghies heading landward via the Chilaw Lagoon were searched at the Thoduwawa Bridge, Chilaw and the consignment of smuggled Kendu Leaves was seized. The Kendu Leaves had been stuffed in 76 sacks and they weighed about 2468kg and 640g (wet weight).

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Pitipana, Negombo aged 29 and 42. The accused together with the items of contraband will be handed over to the Excise Department Office, Madampe for onward legal action.