Two suspects have been arrested in connection with a cannabis plantation that was discovered within the Udawalawe National Park, the Department of Wildlife Conservation said.
According to the department, the cannabis plantation was found during a patrol conducted yesterday (17) by wildlife officers from the Panahaduwa Site Protection Office.
The cannabis plants had grown to about three feet in height, and two individuals engaged in cultivation activities at the site were taken into custody.
Additionally, authorities seized an illegal firearm, ammunition, a water pump used for irrigating the plantation, a solar panel used to power the pump, and other equipment.
The suspects and the confiscated items were presented before the Embilipitiya Magistrate’s Court today (18), during which the suspects pleaded guilty to all charges.
The Magistrate thereafter granted bail to one individual, set at Rs. 500,000, and ordered that the charge sheet be submitted on October 02. (Newswire)