The Department of Forest Conservation has found a racket of grabbing lands running into hundreds of acres from the forest reserves in the Puttalam District with the connivance of some government officials, a top source said.

An investigation headed by the Deputy Forest Conservator in charge of the western and north-western ranges, Lalith Gamage, led to the discovery of this racket. The team initiated an investigation after doubts were triggered over a request to release forest lands on long-term lease to different parties.

The source said these fraudulent elements had initially produced land permits issued way back in 1966 to obtain permission to clear the lands, but they were proven to be fake documents.
My. Gamage has received instructions to proceed with legal action in this regard.

Fake registrations have been issued for lands grabbed in violation of the laws.

• Source said these fraudulent elements had initially produced land permits issued way back in 1966