Navy recovers commercial explosive cache from Udayapuram Beach

A search operation conducted by the Navy in Udayapuram Beach area in Jaffna led to the recovery of 25 Water Gel Sticks - a type of commercial explosive on 19th April 2023.

The Navy conducts regular search operations in coastal areas to prevent destructive fishing practices using explosives, as it is an illegal practice that not only causes harm to marine life but also poses a significant threat to the sustainability of the fishing industry. On receipt of information, SLNS Kanchadewa and SLNS Welusumana in the Northern Naval Command conducted the search operation in Udayapuram Beach area and recovered a suspicious sack concealed in shrubs. During further search, naval personnel recovered 25 Water Gel Sticks from the sack which were subsequently taken into naval custody.

It is believed that these explosive items have been hidden at the beach, to be used for illegal fishing. Meanwhile, the 25 Water Gel Sticks have been kept in the custody of the Navy until they are handed over to authorities for onward legal action.