The Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard have seized approximately 2,400 kg of Kendu leaves suspected of being smuggled into the country and arrested 11 Indian and Sri Lankan nationals during an operation off Udappuwa, Puttalam.
The operation was carried out yesterday, in Sri Lankan waters, resulting in the seizure of two Indian dhows and two local dinghies allegedly involved in the smuggling attempt.
According to the Navy, the operation was launched based on credible information received by the Western Naval Command. Naval and Coast Guard personnel subsequently intercepted two suspicious Indian dhows that had entered Sri Lankan waters, along with two local dinghies in the area.
A search of the vessels led to the discovery of approximately 2,400 kg of Kendu leaves packed in 60 sacks.
Seven Indian nationals aboard the two dhows and four Sri Lankan nationals travelling in the local dinghies were taken into custody during the operation.
The suspects, seized vessels and recovered consignment of Kendu leaves are scheduled to be handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Colombo for further legal proceedings.
