Navy recovers smuggled consignment of Kendu leaves in Delft

A special search operation conducted by the Navy on the Delft Island, Jaffna on 15th June 2023 led to the recovery of more than 729kg (wet weight) of Kendu leaves. The consignment of Kendu leaves, which is believed to be smuggled, was found in the beach area of the Delft Island.

The Navy conducts regular search operations to curb illegal activities such as smuggling in the sea and coastal areas belonging to Sri Lanka. The recovery was made by the naval establishment SLNS Wasaba in the Northern Naval Command, during a search operation conducted in the beach areas of Periyathurei, Samthoddamunai and Wellai of Delft. Upon search of 08 suspicious parcels washed ashore, naval personnel found about 729kg and 100g (wet weight) of Kendu leaves in those packages which were subsequently taken into the naval custody.

It is suspected that smugglers might have left behind this supply of Kendu leaves, as they were unable to bring them to land due to regular naval presence in the area. The stock of Kendu leaves has been kept safe in the Navy's custody until it is produced for onward legal proceedings.