• Navy also arrested seven suspects

The Navy seized 2,712 kilos of dried turmeric suspected to be smuggled via sea during special operations conducted in Silawathura and Norochcholai, a statement said.  

The Navy said it also arrested seven suspects along with dried turmeric.  

Sri Lanka Navy has been conducting regular operations to tighten its grip on smuggling via sea routes. Incidentally, the North Western Naval Command during a search carried out in Manalkulam area had recovered a stock of dried turmeric from a small dwelling in a cultivation land. The 24 sacks recovered from the site had been stuffed with about 826 kilos of dried turmeric and the operation also paved the way to apprehend 2 suspects in connection with the incident.   

In addition, the Navy intercepted a motor car, a small lorry and a motorbike transporting 1,391kg of dried turmeric in 38 sacks in Pulachchanai, Norochcholai.  

Five suspects involved in the racketeering were also held during this operation. It is suspected that these consignments had been smuggled into the country via sea.  

The suspects were identified as residents of Silawathura, Palaviya and Wattala, between  31 and 52 years of age.