64 Foreign Pigeons Worth Over Rs. 3.4 Million Seized At BIA

COLOMBO (News 1st):Two suspects have been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake for attempting to illegally smuggle 64 foreign pigeons into the country.

According to Customs, the suspects had purchased the birds in Italy and travelled to Sri Lanka via Dubai. The pigeons had been packed inside small iron cages and concealed within six of their luggage bags.

The suspects are two 30-year-old businessmen from Wennappuwa who operate pet shops.

Following further investigations, the pigeons, estimated to be worth over Rs. 3.4 million, will be handed over to Emirates Airlines for their return to Italy.