Navy takes hold of large consignments of smuggled Kendu leaves and tobacco products in Mannar

A search operation conducted by the Navy in the Nadukuda area of Mannar on 22 Jun 25 led to the seizure of Kendu leaves weighing approx. 1365kg and about 29100 tobacco products (mini-cigars), suspected to be smuggled in.

The search operation was mounted by SLNS Gajaba in the North Central Naval Command. The consignment (approx. 1365kg) of Kendu leaves in 45 sacks and about 29100 tobacco products were found from shrubs in the Nadukuda area. It is believed that smugglers might have hidden away the consignments after fetching them ashore.

The stocks of Kendu leaves and tobacco products held in this operation were handed over to the Excise Office in Mannar for onward legal action.