Consignment of smuggled dried turmeric and big onion seeds seized

A special search operation carried out by the Navy in the lagoon area of Wattakkalliya, Chilaw yesterday led to the seizure of 362kg and 950g of dried turmeric and 571kg and 400g of big onion seeds attempted to be smuggled into the island, Navy said.

The operation also led to the apprehension of six suspects in connection to this illegal act.

The Western Naval Command in coordination with the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and Chilaw Police conducted this special operation in Wattakkalliya lagoon area, in the wee hours of yesterday.

As such, the raiding party managed to seize sacks being unloaded from 02 suspicious dinghies arrived through the lagoon. Among the unloaded sacks, 14 of them contained 362kg and 950g of dried turmeric and the other 22 sacks have been stuffed with 571kg and 400g of big onion seeds.

Apart from that, the two dinghies used to transfer these consignments and 04 suspects in connection to the illegal activities were also taken into custody.

Meanwhile, two other persons believed to have connection to the racket and have arrived to the location to transport the smuggled consignment of dried turmeric and big onion seeds were also held with a small lorry.