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

PC suspended for WhatsApping confidential police info

Published

4 hours ago

May 15, 2025

editor

.A constable attached to the Parliamentary Security Division has been suspended for allegedly sharing confidential police information through a WhatsApp group, violating official protocols.

According to Police Headquarters, the suspect had been operating a WhatsApp group under the name “CRTM / RTM message No. 3” on his personal phone without authorization from senior officers.

Investigations revealed that several members of the group were civilians or unaffiliated with the police, and that sensitive internal communications meant for police personnel were shared with unauthorized individuals.

The SSP, Director of the Parliamentary Security Division, has suspended the constable for breaching discipline by irresponsibly disclosing confidential police matters to outsiders.

News

DMT holds “Vehicle tuning dansala” for Vesak

Published

5 hours ago

May 15, 2025

editor

The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has organized a special “vehicle tuning Dansala” to be held today and tomorrow (May 15 and 16) in front of its head office in Narahenpita.

In an official statement, the department noted that old motorcycles and three-wheelers – comprising the majority of Sri Lanka’s vehicle population – often lack systematic maintenance due to economic constraints, leading to harmful emissions.

The initiative, organized for the third time by the DMT’s Motor Vehicle Emissions Trust Fund, aims to address this issue.

Free tuning services for motorcycles and three-wheelers will be provided at the dansala, with support from some of Sri Lanka’s most experienced vehicle technicians.

Through this effort, the DMT hopes to improve fuel efficiency, reduce unnecessary fuel expenses, and minimize harmful emissions.

News

New conditions for bus imports from Jan. 2026

Published

5 hours ago

May 15, 2025

editor

Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation – Bimal Rathnayake has announced that the government will implement new regulations for the import of public transport buses starting January next year.

Speaking at a media briefing yesterday (May 14), the Minister stated that under the revised guidelines, only buses meeting modern safety and quality standards will be approved for import.

He further stated that the Ministry of Transport will begin inspections to ensure all public transport vehicles currently in operation comply with required safety and operational standards.