General12 April 2026

Police STF officers arrested for aiding illegal treasure excavations

The Commanding Officer of the Maha Oya STF camp and a police constable driver were arrested by Karadiyanaru Police for allegedly aiding illegal excavations to search for antiquities.


The Police Media Division confirmed these arrests following a raid in the Periyapillumale area.


Police received information around 5:00 AM yesterday (11) regarding a group digging on private land in search of ancient artifacts.


A team led by the Karadiyanaru OIC raided the site and initially apprehended four individuals, including an STF constable, while they were excavating.


Subsequent interrogations revealed that the Commanding Officer of the Maha Oya STF camp and his driver provided direct support for the operation.


Both officers surrendered to the Karadiyanaru Police Station around 8:00 PM last night and were promptly taken into custody.


Investigators seized a jeep assigned to the Maha Oya camp for official duties, as it was reportedly used for this illegal activity.


The suspect officers and other individuals are scheduled for production before the court today (12), while Karadiyanaru Police continue further investigations.

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