The Navy seized over 800 kilos of smuggled spices, medicines, and cosmetic products during a search operation near Devils Point beach, in Kilinochchi, on 11 July.
Naval personnel, attached to SLNS Buwaneka of the North Central Naval Command, intercepted two suspicious cabs in the area, recovering 300 kilos of cardamom, 260 kilos of turmeric powder, 273 kilos of dried ginger, and a haul of unlicensed medicines and cosmetic items prepared for distribution.
Four suspects—aged between 39 and 49—were arrested in connection with the smuggling attempt. They have been identified as residents of Erakkandi, Kalmunaikudi, Trincomalee, and Puttalam.The suspects, along with the vehicles and contraband, were handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Katunayake for further legal proceedings, Navy sources said.