Multiple Arrests Made for Illegal Antiquities Excavation Across Sri Lanka

Police have arrested multiple suspects in connection with illegal antiquities excavation activities in different parts of Sri Lanka. In Dehiattakandiya, three individuals aged 24, 27, and 37 were apprehended on May 1st in the Muwagammna area with excavation equipment. Separately, in the Bogaswewa region, three other suspects were detained while excavating in the Semamadu reserve, with ages reported as 23, 38, and 74. More recently, on May 10th, police in Kandaketiya arrested a 64-year-old man on private land in Gigiribuda for similar activities. In all instances, excavation tools were seized by the respective police units, which are continuing investigations.