According to police, a gang of suspects were arrested in Elpitiya for allegedly attempting to sell a sizable quantity of “Ambergris,” which is said to be worth about Rs. 50 million.
The arrests were made during a raid that was carried out after the Walana Central Anti-Vice Unit got a tip off.
Three accomplices and two of the major suspects in the scam were arrested by police, and they were found to be in possession of 17 kg and 234 grams of ambergris.
For additional investigation, the suspects have been handed over to the Pitigala Police Station.
“Five people arrested in Elpitiya for trying to sell Ambergris for Rs. 50 million.”
Ambergris, also known as grey amber or whale vomit, is produced by the sperm whale’s bile duct and is frequently referred to as “floating gold” due to the high price it fetches on the international market for usage in high-end perfumes.
However, it has been alleged that certain individuals also engage in the illegal practice of slaughtering whales in the deep seas surrounding Sri Lanka in order to collect Ambergris, which they then sell for a high price.
