Navy takes hold of 1508kg of smuggled Kendu Leaves in Kalpitiya

A special search operation carried out by the Navy in Anawasala, Kalpitiya on the night of 21st February 2023 led to the seizure of a lorry made ready to transfer 1508kg of smuggled Kendu Leaves. The operation also led to the apprehension of 03 suspects in connection to the incident. The suspects and smuggled items held in the operation were handed over to the Kalpitiya Police for onward legal action.

Sri Lanka Navy vigilantly patrols the coastal regions of the island often, thwarting a wide range of illicit endeavours taking place via sea routes.

Upon receipt of information to the Naval Intelligence, this special search operation was mounted by SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command in Anawasala area of Kalpitiya on the night of 21st February. The operation led to the search of a suspicious lorry parked in the area, which had been loaded with 48 sacks stuffed with 1508kg of smuggled Kendu Leaves. Accordingly, the contraband items and 03 suspects in connection to the illegal act were taken into naval custody.

In addition, the Navy also seized 744kg of tobacco in 39 sacks and 129kg of tobacco powder in 08 sacks which had been arranged in such a way in the lorry to conceal the stock of Kendu leaves.

The suspects were identified as a resident of Galewela area, from 29 to 36 years of age. The accused along with the stock of Kendu Leaves, other tobacco items and the lorry were handed over to the Kalpitiya Police for onward legal action.