Relentless naval surveillance leads to seize smuggled Kendu leaves, agrochemicals and spices with 08 suspects

The Navy took hold of about 2399kg of smuggled Kendu leaves, 35kg of cardamom and a stock of agrochemicals, during separate operations in multiple locations of Kalpitiya, Silawathura and Uchchamunai areas from 20 to 22 Jul 25. The operations also led to the apprehension of 04 dinghies and 08 suspects in connection to the illegal activities.

The Sri Lanka Navy remains ever alert and conducts patrols and search operations in the coastal areas of the island to prevent the influx of illegal items into the island.

In continuation of these efforts, a team of Special Boat Squadron (SBS) attached to SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command apprehended approx. 779kg of Kendu leaves, 35kg of cardamom and 2629 packets and bottles of agrochemicals with 04 suspects in Wellamundalama seas, Kalpitiya and Wella Island of Uchchamunai. Additionally, naval personnel of Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) Headquarters seized about 883kg of Kendu leaves, 02 dinghies and apprehended 04 suspects in the Ippantivu sea area.

Moreover, SLNS Therapuththa recovered around 737kg of Kendu leaves, during a search operation in the Sawaripuram and Arippu West beach areas.

The suspects held in these operations were identified as residents of Kalpitiya, from 20 to 55 years of age. Those 08 suspects along with the seized items and dinghies were handed over to the Excise Special Units in Puttalam and Mannar for onward legal action.