Navy takes hold of about 748kg of smuggled Tendu leaves in separate operations

The Sri Lanka Navy took hold of about 748.6 kg (wet weight) of smuggled Tendu leaves, during separate search operations conducted in the sea area of Ippanthivu in Uchchamunai and beach area of Wellamundalama, Kalpitiya on 25th August 2024.

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 a wide range of illegal items into the island.

During a search operation conducted on 25th August, SLNS Vijaya in the Northwestern Naval Command retrieved 15 sacks adrift in the sea area of Ippanthivu and found about 499kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves in them. In the same vein, the Rapid Action Boat Squadron belonging to the same naval command recovered 07 more sacks weighing about 249.6kg (wet weight) of Tendu leaves, during a search conducted in the Wellamundalama beach area.

The consignment of Tendu leaves has been kept in the safe custody of the Sri Lanka Navy, until onward legal action gets underway.