Approx. 407 kg of smuggled Tendu leaves seized in Kalpitiya

A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the Wellamundalama area of Kalpitiya on 22nd June 2024, resulted in the seizure of approximately 407kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves, suspected to have been smuggled into the country.

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 part of these ongoing efforts, SLNS Vijaya, under the Northwestern Naval Command, conducted a search operation in the Wellamundalama area in the evening of 22nd June. During the operation, the Navy recovered about 407kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves from shrubs in the locality. The consignment had been stuffed in 14 sacks when recovered.

The stash of Tendu leaves has been kept in the custody of the Navy, until onward legal action is initiated with regard to the incident.