Rs 4 cr worth red sanders seized

Rs four crore worth red sanders, meant for export to Hong Kong, was today seized by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence officials from a container near Dharapuram in the district.

Based on a tip off, the DRI personnel intercepted a truck and on search found nine tonnes of red sanders and 40 kg of sandalwood, DRI sources said.

Preliminary inquiry revealed that the consignment was meant for export to Hong Kong through Tuticorin port, they said, adding interrogation was on to find out sources of supply and persons behind it.

Red sanders, an endangered plant species that has been prohibited from being exported, is in demand for making musical instruments.