Rs. 16.9 Mn Gold Haul Uncovered in Wattegama; Gold Dealer Among Suspects

COLOMBO (News 1st); A major investigation has been launched into a large stock of gold uncovered in the Wattegama area, with authorities deciding to obtain the assistance of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to further probe the case.

Police said the suspects arrested in connection with the seizure are scheduled to be produced before the Theldeniya Magistrate's Court today.

The group of suspects comprises 10 individuals, including two women and eight men. Investigations have revealed that one of the suspects is the owner of a gold jewellery business located in Colombo's Chetty Street, a well-known commercial hub for the precious metals trade.

According to police, the suspects, aged between 45 and 50, are residents of Chetty Street, Wellawatte and Nawalapitiya.

Authorities recovered 4 kilograms and 930 grams of gold from the suspects. The seized gold is estimated to be worth more than Rs. 16.9 million. In addition to the gold, police also discovered a stock of chemicals and equipment believed to be linked to the operation.

Investigators further revealed that the suspects had been staying at a hotel in the Madawala area of Wattegama prior to their arrest.

The raid was carried out following intelligence received by Wattegama Police Officer-in-Charge Kapila Bandara indicating that the suspects were allegedly involved in an illegal gold trafficking operation. 

Acting on the information, police conducted the operation that led to the arrests and the seizure of the gold and related materials.