A suspect was arrested in Nittambuwa after wildlife officers seized a piece of an elephant tusk, an ivory ring, and an elephant-shaped ivory pendant during a raid.
The raid was carried out by officers from the Horagolla National Park and the Western Regional Wildlife Office following a tip-off.
The suspect, a resident of Kobeygane, was allegedly preparing to sell the items. Authorities have launched investigations to determine how he obtained the elephant tusk products.
The suspect and the seized items are due to be produced before the Attanagalla Magistrate’s Court.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation reminded the public that possessing, transporting, displaying, or selling parts of protected animals, including elephant tusks, is prohibited under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. It added that wildlife officers continue to take legal action against those involved in the illegal trade of animal parts, including ivory jewellery. (Newswire)