Over 1832kg of smuggled Tendu leaves recovered in Kalpitiya

A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the Ettalai area of Bangalawatta, Kalpitiya on 03rd June 2024, led to the recovery of over 1832kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves. It is believed the consignment of Tendu leaves was smuggled into the country and hidden in the area.

The Sri Lanka Navy conducts regular search operations and patrols in the coastal areas of the island, with a view to prevent the influx of a wide range of illegal items into the island.

As an extension of these efforts, the search operation was mounted by SLNS Vijaya and SLNS Thambapanni in the Northwestern Naval Command. During the search, naval personnel recovered 57 sacks hidden in shrubs in Ettalai area and the sacks were stuffed with Tendu leaves, weighing about 1832kg and 900g (wet weight). Subsequently, the recovered stock of Tendu leaves was taken into naval custody.

The consignment was later handed over to the Excise Special Unit of Northwestern Province for onward legal action.