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Former CPC boss keeps mini zoo

by Tharika Goonethilake

Several protected species of birds and animals held in captivity in an estate in Ethgalawatta, Pahamune, was seized by the Wildlife Department's Flying Squad on Tuesday.

Seven spotted deer, four peacocks, two jungle fowl and two rock squirrels were detected by the Wildlife squad from the 37 acre coconut estate, Wildlife Department's Flying Squad Chief M. Faiz told the Daily News yesterday.

The estate is alleged to be owned by a former chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. "The place was like a mini zoo with a large number of animals and birds. In addition to local species, there was also a variety of other imported exotic bird species in captivity," Faiz said.

According to him, under the Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance it is illegal to capture, or cage, protected species of animals and birds, and offenders are liable for prosecution with fines up to Rs. 90,000.

The caretaker of the animals had been produced before the Kuliyapitiya Magistrate and later released on a bail of Rs. 25,000.

The seized animals and birds have been handed over to the National Zoological Gardens pending further inquiries.

Faiz made the detection with the assistance of Game Ranger Kokila Harendra, Game Guard Peiris and Jinadasa.

The case will be heard before the Kuliyapitiya Magistrate on April 8.

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