Smuggled consignment of Tendu leaves recovered by Navy in Kalpitiya

A special search operation mounted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the lagoon area of Keerimundalama, Kalpitiya on the morning of 03rd December 2023, resulted in the recovery of about 465 kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves hidden away in the area.

The Sri Lanka Navy consistently carries out search operations and patrols along the island's coastal areas to deter the smuggling of unauthorized items into the country. As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command carried out this special operation in the vicinity of Keerimundalama Lagoon on 03rd December. The operation led to the recovery of 08 suspicious sacks hidden away in the lagoon area. After conducting further examination of the sacks, the Navy seized around 465 kg of Tendu leaves with wet weight.

The retrieved stock of Tendu leaves has been kept in the safe custody of the Navy, until they are produced for onward legal action.