Indians held with Walla Patta worth over Rs 38m
April 20, 2014 12:13 pm
Two Indian national have been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake for attempting to smuggle a large haul of ‘Walla Patta’ herb out of the country this morning, an official said.
Sri Lanka Customs said the suspects were preparing to board a Chennai-bound flight (UL 121) today when they were apprehended.
Around 48 kilograms of Walla Patta, estimated to be worth over Rs 38 million, was found in the 3 bags belonging to the suspects, Customs Media Spokesman Leslie Gamini said.
Scientifically known as Gyrinops walla, the endemic plant is traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
However, it produces a resinous substance called Agarwood, which fetches a high price in other countries as it is used in the production of perfumes.
Transportation or possession of the plant, which only grows in certain parts of the island, is prohibited.
The commercial value of this tree came to light with the recent attempts to illegally fell and smuggle it to extract Agarwood.
Sri Lanka Customs said the suspects were preparing to board a Chennai-bound flight (UL 121) today when they were apprehended.
Around 48 kilograms of Walla Patta, estimated to be worth over Rs 38 million, was found in the 3 bags belonging to the suspects, Customs Media Spokesman Leslie Gamini said.
Scientifically known as Gyrinops walla, the endemic plant is traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
However, it produces a resinous substance called Agarwood, which fetches a high price in other countries as it is used in the production of perfumes.
Transportation or possession of the plant, which only grows in certain parts of the island, is prohibited.
The commercial value of this tree came to light with the recent attempts to illegally fell and smuggle it to extract Agarwood.
