News:2024-02-25/Enforcement/parts-of-yala-at-risk-from-illicit-ganja-growers-poachers-and-bushmeat-trade

25 February 2024

Yukthiya (Eradication Campaign)

Enforcement

Sri Lanka·Southern Province·Hambantota District·Yala National Park· (Southern Province)

Parts of Yala at risk from illicit ganja growers, poachers, and bushmeat trade

Environmental activists report approximately 50–60 cannabis plantations operating within blocks 3–6 of Yala National Park, with around 200 acres destroyed by illegal activities. Police conducted 19 raids in recent months under the 'Yukthiya' campaign, deploying STF drones to detect cultivations. Wildlife officers reduced armed patrols after three were arrested over a poacher's death in November 2023, enabling a surge in illegal activity. Cannabis growers also engage in poaching using trap guns and wire snares, injuring elephants and leopards — over 20 elephants found with damaged trunks.

Source: https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240225/news/parts-of-yala-at-risk-from-illicit-ganja-growers-poachers-and-bushmeat-trade-549887.html

2024-02-25 Enforcement Parts of Yala at risk from illicit ganja growers, poachers, and bushmeat trade Environmental activists report approximately 50–60 cannabis plantations operating within blocks 3–6 of Yala National Park, with around 200 acres destroyed by illegal activities. Police conducted 19 raids in recent months under the 'Yukthiya' campaign, deploying STF drones to detect cultivations. Wildlife officers reduced armed patrols after three were arrested over a poacher's death in November 2023, enabling a surge in illegal activity. Cannabis growers also engage in poaching using trap guns and wire snares, injuring elephants and leopards — over 20 elephants found with damaged trunks. https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240225/news/parts-of-yala-at-risk-from-illicit-ganja-growers-poachers-and-bushmeat-trade-549887.html Yukthiya (Eradication Campaign) Sri Lanka Southern Province Hambantota District Yala National Park 6° 22' 12.00" N, 81° 30' 0.00" E Southern Province Yala-Lunugamvehera