A special operation conducted in the Thirappane area, where the elephant Agbo is frequently sighted, has led to the discovery of unauthorised firearms, trap guns, explosives and other equipment used for illegal hunting.
The operation was carried out under the national ‘Hasthi Sena’ programme, which aims to protect the lives of wild elephants, safeguard human lives and property, and minimise human-elephant conflict.
The special operation covered several areas, including Galkulama, Getamalakanda, Muriyakadawala, Periyamiyankulama, Kirindegama, Niraviya, Thalagulu Viharaya, Nabadewa, Wannankulama, Orukkankulama and Kuttimaduwa.
The operation was conducted under the guidance of the Ministry of Environment, with the 7th Sri Lanka Armoured Corps, under the 212 Infantry Brigade, playing a leading role.
It was organised under the supervision of Major General Kaminda Silva, General Officer Commanding of the 21 Division, and Brigadier Suranga Basnayake, Commander of the 212 Infantry Brigade. It was led by Lieutenant Colonel Prabath Abeywickrama, Commanding Officer of the 7th Sri Lanka Armoured Corps, with the participation of Squadron Commander Major Dimuthu Mullewidhana.
A total of 75 Army personnel, comprising seven officers and 68 other ranks, participated in the operation.
Officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation also took part, including Assistant Director Channa Suraveera, three Wildlife Guards, six Field Assistants, eight Wildlife Rangers and two Senior Assistant Officers from the Thirappane Beat Wildlife Office. (Newswire)
