Sri Lanka, Sept. 30 -- The Ministry of Defence has today announced strict measures to curb the illegal production and use of banned explosives known as "Hakka Patas" and "Cheena Patas."

The Ministry said that said "Cheena Patas" are being manufactured in some areas using raw materials meant for the fireworks industry, and later used to produce the more dangerous "Hakka Patas." These explosives are commonly used to scare away wild animals from farmland but have caused severe injuries and deaths to both humans and animals in recent years. Officials also warned of serious environmental and conservation risks.

Despite being prohibited, it was reported that that the production, storage, and sale of these explosives continue across the island...