Sri Lanka Navy seized over 6,000 kg of smuggled Kendu leaves in August

The Sri Lanka Navy seized over 6230kg of Kendu leaves, during special search operations conducted in the month of August alone in 2023. 

During these operations the Navy also apprehended 09 suspects and 03 dinghies in connection to these incidents.

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 smuggled and illegal items into the island, via sea routes.

Continuing such efforts, these separate operations were mounted by SLNS Vijaya, SLNS Thambapanni, SLNS Kelani, Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) and Sri Lanka Coast Guard in the western and northwestern sea and coastal areas.

The operations resulted in the seizure of about 6230kg and 570g of Kendu leaves and apprehension of 09 suspects and 03 dinghies in the month of August alone.  

Meanwhile, the apprehended stock of Kendu leaves along with the suspects and dinghies were handed over to relevant authorities for legal action.

With continuous naval operations, it is expected to deter the unlawful smuggling of Kendu leaves into Sri Lanka via sea routes, promote the lawful import of them in adherence to the established legal framework, and thereby bolster the government's tax income. 

Sri Lanka Navy said that the government incurred a loss of more than Rs. 37 million in tax revenue, as the seized Kendu Leave were smuggled into the island by illegal means.