Sri Lanka Navy seizes over three tonnes of smuggled Kendu leaves

The Sri Lanka Navy seized about 3,135 kilograms of smuggled Kendu leaves and three dinghies during a search operation off Karukapane Beach in Chilaw on Friday.

Naval personnel from SLNS Thambapanni, attached to the Northwestern Naval Command, launched the operation after receiving information about suspicious activity in the area.

During the search, they inspected three dinghies found off the Karukapane coast and discovered 80 sacks containing Kendu leaves.

The Navy believes smugglers abandoned the vessels and the consignment after noticing increased naval surveillance in the area.

Authorities handed over the seized Kendu leaves and dinghies to the Chilaw Excise Department Office for further legal action.