  
Authorities in Sri Lanka have taken seven Indian nationals into custody following an interception targeting an operation to smuggle kendu leaves into the country.
The suspects were apprehended after security personnel detected the unlawful transit of the consignment. Kendu leaves, commonly processed for manufacturing traditional beedis, are strictly regulated under Sri Lankan commercial import laws, prompting heightened maritime surveillance against cross-border contraband networks operating across regional waters.
Key Developments
- Seven Indian nationals were arrested by authorities in Sri Lanka.
- The individuals were intercepted during an attempt to illegally smuggle kendu leaves.
- The suspects and seized goods were transferred to local enforcement agencies for formal legal procedures.
Maritime security personnel continue to monitor coastal corridors between India and Sri Lanka to curb unauthorized transport operations and enforce border controls.