A special search operation has been launched by the Ministry of Environment and the Department of Wildlife Conservation, with the support of the Sri Lanka Army, to curb wildlife crimes. Reports confirm that three suspects were arrested during this operation, named 'Operation Hasthi Sena'.
Key Points
- Ministry of Environment, Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the Sri Lanka Army launch 'Operation Hasthi Sena'.
- Ten special teams deployed covering 10 Grama Niladhari divisions around Galkiriyagama.
- Three persons nabbed in Nikkiniyawa with trap guns, explosives, game meat, and animal parts.
Massive operation carried out by 10 teams
This special operation is being carried out centered on the Galkiriyagama Wildlife Range. Ten Grama Niladhari divisions suspected of having a high incidence of wildlife crimes have been selected for the drive.
Each team comprises nine personnel: one wildlife officer leading the team, two Civil Defence Force personnel, and six Army personnel. Ten such teams have been deployed for these search operations.
How the suspects were caught
The three suspects were nabbed during the operation carried out within the Nikkiniyawa Grama Niladhari division, coming under the Kekirawa Divisional Secretariat.
The Ministry of Environment stated that they were arrested for the possession of trap guns prepared to harm wild elephants, wires, cables, snares, explosives, as well as game meat and various parts of dead animals.
