Mar 18, Colombo: A search operation conducted by the Navy in Kolombuthurei beach, Jaffna yesterday (March 17) led to the discovery of 28 Water Gel Sticks - a type of commercial explosive.

SLNS Welusumana in the Northern Naval Command made this discovery, during a search carried out in Kolombuthurei beach.

The 28 Water Gel Sticks that had been concealed in a shrub and covered in a sack were taken into naval custody.

It is believed that these explosive items have been hidden at the beach, to be used for illegal fishing. The Water Gel Sticks have been kept in naval custody until they are handed over to authorities for onward legal action.

The Navy stays ever alert and conducts regular search operations to prevent illegal fishing practices carried out using explosives; as such activities deal a heavy blow to the marine ecosystem.