Navy seizes more than 864kg of Tendu leaves being smuggled in Negombo lagoon

A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy in the Negombo lagoon in the dark hours of 13th January 2025 led to the seizure of more than 864kg of smuggled Tendu leaves. During this operation, the Navy also held 02 dinghies employed for this racket.

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 a wide range of illegal items into the island

As an extension of these efforts, the search operation was mounted by SLNS Kelani in the Western Naval Command in the Negombo lagoon area. During this operation, the Navy intercepted 02 dinghies on suspicion and recovered 29 sacks in them. The sacks had been stuffed with Tendu leaves weighing 864kg and 750g. Accordingly, the consignment of smuggled Tendu leaves and dinghies were taken into the naval custody.

One of these sacks contained a packet of mini-cigars (wrapped beedi) as well. It is believed that suspects might have abandoned the consignment, unable to fetch them to land, due to the presence of the Navy.

The apprehended items will be handed over to the Customs Preventive Office, Katunayake for onward legal action.