COLOMBO (News 1st) – Seven people have been arrested for illegal gem mining from the Standen Estate in Hatton.

Our correspondent in the area noted that the illegal gem mining has caused extensive damage to the ecosystem of the Hatton Oya.

The arrested people have been identified as residents of the same estate.

The Police has also seized several equipment used for gem mining. The arrested suspects are due to be presented before the Magistrates Court.

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