Smuggled Exotic Pets in Mannar

The Sri Lanka Navy and Police, in a special joint operation conducted yesterday (4) in the Pesalai area of Mannar, discovered a large number of illegally smuggled exotic pets.

Among the rescued animals were pigeons, African ornamental birds, and flying squirrels, according to the Navy.

Based on intelligence received by the Sri Lanka Naval Ship Thammanna of the North Central Naval Command, the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Criminal Investigation Division of the Mannar Police.

The animals were found during an inspection of a suspicious lorry traveling through the area. The Navy confirmed the seizure of 220 pigeons, 20 African ornamental birds, and 8 flying squirrels that were being transported unlawfully.

Additionally, authorities found 230 medicinal tablets and 40 bottles of medicinal liquid inside the lorry.

The lorry and three suspects, aged between 25 and 44 and identified as residents of Dambulla and Colombo, were taken into custody.

The seized animals, the lorry, and the suspects have been handed over to the Mannar Police Station for further legal proceedings.

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