Navy takes hold of over 1066kg of Tendu leaves in northwestern coast

Naval operations conducted between 10th and 20th October 2024, across the sea and coastal areas from Puttalam to Silawathura, resulted in the seizure of over 1,066 kg of smuggled Tendu leaves.

The operations were carried out by SLNS Thambapanni, SLNS Therapuththa, and SLNS Barana under the Northwestern Naval Command along the coastal areas of Mampuri, Silawathura, Kalaru, Arippu, and Kokkupadayan. A total of approximately 1,066 kg and 200 g of Tendu leaves, in wet condition, were seized during these operations. Some of the consignment, believed to have been smuggled, had washed ashore and some were found floating in the water.

The consignment was handed over to the Excise Department Office in Puttlam and Mannar for onward legal action.