COLOMBO (News 1st):- Individuals who had engaged in illegal activities during the curfew period have been arrested. Wildlife officials arrested four individuals for treasure hunting in the Kumana National Park last evening (March 20).  The suspects were arrested near the Kumana wewa, along with two firearms, while two more suspects had fled the scene.

Police said, among the suspects is a relative of a former regional politician in Lahugala. The arrested suspects were remanded until the 1st of April, after being produced at the Pothuvil magistrate. Meanwhile, police arrested seven individuals for gem mining within the Shanon estate, behind several line houses.

The Marawila police also launched an operation this afternoon (March 21)  to raid a gravel racket that was taking place while curfew restrictions were in effect.  The raid took place following a tip-off from a local.

The racket has been taking place for some time, however, due to the non-availability of a license the illegal operation had been suspended for some time. Before the police arrived at the scene, several tipper trucks had fled the area, and subsequently, when the police arrived, only two backhoe machines were discovered. Subsequently, the officers attached to the Marawila police had seized the vehicles, while legal action is due to be initiated against the racketeers.

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