Seven individuals have been arrested recently for engaging in illegal mining activities. Police conducted a raid in the Norwood area, apprehending the suspects who were allegedly involved in illicit gem extraction. Various tools used for the illegal operation were confiscated by the authorities. The arrested individuals, whose ages range from 24 to 56, are reportedly residents of Norwood and Ratnapura. Notably, two employees of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board were among those detained. Police are continuing their investigations into the matter.
The Pulse
CrimeEconomySunday, May 17, 2026
Seven Detained for Illegal Gem Mining Operations
TLDR
Seven arrested for illegal gem mining in Siyabalagahagama.
Includes two NWSDB employees, ages 20-56.
Detained May 17th; mining tools seized.
Story Update
Update #2\u00b7 May 19 · 1:16 AM
