Wildlife officers arrested three suspects on 13 October after finding illegal firearms, explosives and animal traps on private land in the Deduru Oya valley.
Officers of the Wayamba Wildlife Regional Office raided the property, on the right bank of the Deduru Oya, after receiving intelligence. They seized a shotgun, a stock of SG cartridges, four pressure guns, three “hakka patas” (explosive baits) and a snare, along with other related items.
The area is frequently crossed by wild elephants. Hakka patas are explosive baits that have caused serious injuries to elephants and other animals in Sri Lanka.
A fourth suspect fled the scene. Wildlife authorities said further investigations and operations are under way to find that person.
