Five Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) personnel and two civilians have been arrested by Mattala Police over the alleged shooting and killing of deer within the premises of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport and selling the meat to outside parties.
Police said the suspects were arrested during a special raid while the SLAF personnel were allegedly attempting to transport the venison out of the airport premises.
Firearms suspected to have been used in the alleged poaching, along with a vehicle belonging to the SLAF, have also been taken into police custody.
Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) have commenced investigations into the incident, while Mattala Police are conducting further inquiries into the alleged poaching and sale of the meat.
The suspects are expected to be produced before court, police said.
