The operation, conducted by SLNS Vijaya under the Northwestern Naval Command following credible intelligence, uncovered the gold cleverly concealed as 13 fishing net weight sinkers. Both the suspects, identified as residents of Wendesiwatta and Anawasala in Kalpitiya, and the dinghy were taken into naval custody.
The consignment and the suspects were subsequently handed over to the Customs Preventive Office in Katunayake for further legal action.
The Navy conducts regular patrols and search operations in coastal and sea areas around the island to prevent smuggling and other illicit activities via sea routes.
