Sri Lanka, Nov. 19 -- A special raid conducted by the Wildlife Department in Viharapalugama, Anuradhapura, led to the seizure of a large stock of wild animal meat, live tortoises and 14 tortoise eggs and the arrest of a prominent multi-millionaire custodian.

The seized stock also included sambar deer, armadillo and six black tortoises.

The arrested suspect has been identified as B. Jayawardena, a 50-year-old resident of Anuradhapura and the chief custodian of the Anuradhapura Sri Maha Bodhiya. He was remanded till 21 November by Anuradhapura Additional Magistrate Dasandi Hapuarachchi.

During the hearing, the magistrate directed wildlife officers to submit samples of the seized wild animal meat and a necklace allegedly made of ivory to ...