Thoothukudi, July 11: In a significant operation early Saturday morning, the Q Branch police seized beedi leaves valued at approximately 17 lakh rupees, intended for smuggling to Sri Lanka, off the coast of Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. However, the suspected smugglers managed to escape as the police arrived.
The operation took place near the Inigo Nagar beach, where the police discovered the contraband hidden in a forested area. Acting on intelligence, Inspector Vijay Anita of the Q Branch received a tip-off about a large quantity of beedi leaves stockpiled in the coastal region of Inigo Nagar, which were being prepared for illegal transport to Sri Lanka by boat.
Following the information, a special police team led by Sub-Inspector Ramachandran conducted a search operation late at night in the southern police station area of Thoothukudi city sub-division. The team included Special Sub-Inspector Ramra, Inspector Irudhayaraj Kumar, Isakkimuthu, and police personnel Palani, Balamurugan, and Pechiraj.
During the search, a significant cache of beedi leaves was found concealed in the southern part of Inigo Nagar beach. The investigation revealed 18 bundles, each weighing approximately 30 kilograms. According to police, these were fully prepared for shipment to Sri Lanka via sea routes.
As the police arrived, the nearby suspected smugglers took advantage of the darkness to flee the scene. Authorities also seized a cargo vehicle used to transport the beedi leaves to the coastal area.
Officials estimate the international market value of the seized beedi leaves to be around 17 lakh rupees. The recovered items and vehicle are being handed over to the customs department for further investigation and legal action.
The police have initiated an inquiry to identify and apprehend those involved in the smuggling operation. Investigative agencies are working to trace the owner of the seized vehicle and are also probing a larger smuggling network active along the Thoothukudi coast.
Authorities have stated that the Q Branch and other agencies have intensified surveillance to curb cross-border smuggling between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Investigations are ongoing to determine the intended recipient of this shipment and whether it is linked to an organized smuggling gang.
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