54 Division Intelligence troops of the Security Force HQ-Wanni in combination with the Quick Reaction Team of 7 Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment recovered 672 kg of smuggled turmeric from Periyakadei coastal area in Mannar on Thursday (08).

Information confirmed that the turmeric haul had been brought to Periyakadai area in three boats and was about to be transported in a Dimo Batta lorry. The market value of the bulk is approximately Rs 4 m.

No suspects were apprehended but the vehicle, three boats and two boat engines were handed over to the Mannar Police station for further investigations. On the directions of the General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army and the Major General Hemantha Bandara, Commander Security Forces - Wanni, 54 Division have been very active in curbing illegal activities in the Mannar District specially deterring the smuggle of Kerala Cannabis and turmeric from India.

Since June last year, the 54 Division under the guidance of the present General Officer Commanding Major General Indrajith Bandara has taken into custody smuggled Kerala Cannabis, Turmeric and people involved in illegal sand mining activities to the value of about Rs 245 m in the market. The information gathering, operational direction and swift action by the troops are the keys to recent successes achieved by the 54 Division in Mannar District.