Navy nabs 02 suspects with about 1236kg of smuggled Tendu leaves in Puttalam

A special operation conducted by the Navy in Daluwa Beach area of Puttalam led to the apprehension of 02suspects with about 1236kg of smuggled Tendu leaves on 26th September 2023. The smuggled consignment of Tendu leaves has been prepared for distribution, when they were held by the Navy. Along with the suspects, the Navy also held a cab and a lorry from the location.

The Sri Lanka Navy conducts regular search operations and patrols in the coastal areas of the island, with a view to prevent the influx of smuggled and illegal items into the island.

As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Thambapanni in the Northwestern Naval Command made this apprehension during a search operation carried out in the dark hours of 26th September in Daluwa Beach area. The consignment of smuggled Tendu leaves was recovered upon searching a cab and a lorry at the beach on suspicion. The 40 packages loaded in the vehicles contained Tendu leaves weighing around 1236kg. Thus, the stock of smuggled Tendu leaves, 02 suspects and the vehicles were taken into the naval custody.

The suspects apprehended in this operation were identified as residents of Kalpitiya, aged 24. The suspects together with the stock of Tendu leaves and vehicles will be handed over to the Madurankuliya Police for onward legal action.