News

Navy seizes 6230kg smuggled Tendu leaves in August alone

Published

2 years ago

September 6, 2023

editor

The Sri Lanka Navy took hold of over 6230kg of Tendu 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 Tendu leaves and apprehension of 09 suspects and 03 dinghies in the month of August alone.

Meanwhile, the apprehended stock of Tendu 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 Tendu 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. As long as the consignment of Tendu leaves held by the Navy is considered, it is believed that the government incurred a loss of more than Rs. 37 million in tax revenue, as they have been smuggled into the island by illegal means.

(navy.lk)

News

Heavy showers expected today

Published

1 hour ago

April 25, 2025

editor

The Department of Meteorology says that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (the zone where winds from the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere converge) is affecting the island’s weather.

Accordingly, showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, North-western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle and Matara districts today (April 25).

Showers or thundershowers will occur elsewhere on the island after 1.00 p.m.

Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva provinces and in Puttalam, Batticaloa and Ampara districts.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Ampara district during the morning.

News

President offers condolences at Vatican Embassy (Pics)

Published

13 hours ago

April 24, 2025

editor

President Anura Kumara Disanayake paid a visit to the Vatican Embassy this afternoon (24) to extend his condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Upon his arrival, the President was warmly received by Most Reverend Archbishop Brian N. Udaigwe, the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican to Sri Lanka.

Following a brief discussion with Archbishop Udaigwe, President Disanayake signed the book of condolence, conveying, on behalf of the Government and the people of Sri Lanka, heartfelt sympathies to the global Christian community on the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis.

(President’s Media Division)