Chinese national arrested for smuggling gems

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A Chinese national was arrested at the Katunayake International Airport by Customs officials when she attempted to smuggle a stock of gems into the country. Deputy Customs Director Vipula Manuwanpitiya said the gems that were seized are worth Rs 4.8 million. The gems were concealed in the luggage and were brought from Bangkok into the country. 18 large gems and several smaller gems packed in 13 packages were taken into custody by the Customs. The suspect, a 35-year-old Chinese National was released with a fine of 40,000 rupees and the gems have been confiscated.