Major haul of contraband e-cigarettes seized in Peliyagoda operation

Law enforcement officials have confiscated a large consignment of unlicensed e-cigarettes following an operation targeting contraband goods at Peliyagoda. The discovery was made after customs and regulatory authorities inspected a suspicious shipping container, uncovering the extensive stockpile of vaping devices.

The seizure underscores ongoing efforts by Sri Lankan authorities to combat the illegal importation and distribution of electronic cigarettes, which remain prohibited or heavily restricted under the country's tobacco and health regulations. Port authorities and relevant enforcement agencies collaborated in the operation to intercept the contraband before it could enter local markets.

Officials have launched investigations to determine the origin of the shipment and identify parties involved in the smuggling operation. The case reflects broader concerns about the trafficking of regulated products through the country's maritime ports.

The incident adds to a series of enforcement actions targeting illegal e-cigarette imports, as authorities intensify monitoring of goods passing through major distribution points including Peliyagoda.