A search operation carried out by the Sri Lanka Navy led to the detection of three dinghies loaded with over 2,468 kilogrammes (wet weight) of smuggled Kendu leaves in the Chilaw Lagoon area on Wednesday morning. Three suspects were also taken into custody in connection with the smuggling attempt.
The Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard conduct regular search operations and patrols in the coastal areas of the island, to prevent the influx of contraband into the island. Based on information, the combined operation was carried out by the intelligence staff of the Chilaw Coast Guard Station, intelligence staff of the Western Naval Command and naval personnel attached to the Coast Guard Station Chilaw.
Three suspicious dinghies heading landward via the Chilaw Lagoon were searched during this operation 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 2,468kg and 640g (wet weight).
The suspects held in this operation aged 29 and 42 are residents of Pitipana, Negombo. The accused together with the items of contraband will be handed over to the Excise Department Office, Madampe for further legal action.
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