Police Seize Illegal Cigarettes and Beedi Leaves Worth Over Rs. 630 Million in Major Raid

The Western Province North Crime Division has carried out what is described as one of the largest seizures of illegal cigarettes and beedi leaves reported in recent times, uncovering a stock valued at more than Rs. 630 million.

The seizure was made during a raid on a large warehouse located along an interior road in the Sedawatta area, where the illegal operation had allegedly been conducted discreetly to avoid attracting attention.

The value of the seized illegal cigarettes alone is estimated to exceed Rs. 600 million. In addition, a stock of beedi leaves brought into the country without authorisation and without payment of customs duties was valued at more than Rs. 30 million.

Police conducted the operation following confidential information received by officers attached to the Western Province North Crime Division. According to reports, officers went undercover and approached the warehouse pretending to be buyers seeking to purchase illegal cigarettes.

Officials said neither the Police nor the Excise Department had previously carried out a seizure involving such a large quantity of cigarettes and beedi leaves.

The investigation was conducted under the instructions of Western Province North Division Director Chaminda Dharmaratne, with a team of officers led by Inspector Anjana, Officer-in-Charge of the relevant unit.

Investigators have reportedly uncovered information indicating that the alleged mastermind behind the racket is hiding in Dubai.

Two suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the operation. One was taken into custody in the Kandy area, while the other was arrested in Wattala.

Police have launched a wider investigation to determine when and how the cigarettes and beedi leaves were brought into the country without payment of customs duties, as well as how long the alleged smuggling operation had been operating.

Further investigations are underway.