The Navy on detection of a suspicious trawler in the sea area about 10 nautical miles off the Chilaw Point apprehended four suspects aboard, along with gunny sacks stuffed with turmeric Tuesday (11).
Subsequently, the trawler and smuggled items held by the Navy were brought to the Dikkowita fisheries harbour for further investigation. The load of smuggled consignment about 6381 kg in weight was handed over to the Sri Lanka Customs for further investigation, after proper decontamination.
On the assumption that the four suspects had close association with Indian smugglers out at sea, the individuals together with their family members were referred to the quarantine process, following the directives of health authorities.
Meanwhile, based on information revealed by the suspects aboard, the Navy in coordination with the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and Chilaw Police also carried out another raid in the town area of Chilaw and nabbed nine more individuals who were believed to be prospective dealers in connection to the same incident. A minivan and Rs. 2,242,500.00 in their possession were also held during this raid.
The accused were identified as residents of Wattala, Katugastota, Kandy, Beruwala and Thoduwawa areas, from 27 to 66 years of age. It was further revealed that the owner of the trawler was also among the group of accused. Meanwhile, the detainees together with their belongings were produced to the Chilaw Police for further legal action.
