A Sri Lankan passenger was arrested by Customs officers at Bandaranaike International Airport early April 11 for attempting to smuggle ornamental plants into the country.
The arrest occurred as the passenger attempted to exit through the arrivals terminal’s Green Channel with more than 200 plants valued at about Rs. 775,000, according to Customs.
The suspect, a 40-year-old businessman from Veyangoda, arrived at 12:45 a.m. from Bangalore.
Customs officers said 229 ornamental plants had been concealed in his luggage. The items had been brought into the country without authorization, in violation of the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance and the Plant Protection Act.
Following an investigation, the plants were confiscated and the suspect was fined Rs. 100,000. (Newswire)