Two Italians fined Rs. 60 mn for insect smuggling attempt

September 4, 2024 at 10:31 AM

The Thissamaharama Magistrate’s Court has imposed a fine on two Italians for attempting to carry various species of insects, including dragonflies, captured in a forest area near the Yala Forest Reserve, back to Italy.

According to media reports, the arrested individuals, a 58-year-old man and his 28-year-old son, were imposed a fine of over Rs. 60 million, the highest fine to be imposed by the Thissamaharama Magistrate’s Court.

Upon being inquired if the fine could be paid immediately, the accused’s lawyer informed the court that they were incapable of settling the fine in part or full.

Taking into consideration the facts, the Court ordered the accused to settle the fine before 29 September 2024.

The court also ordered that the two men will not be permitted to leave the country until they pay the fine. (Newswire)