The three-day excavation effort in the Wanduramba area in Veyangoda, initiated in search of rumoured buried treasure, concluded at 04.00 PM yesterday as per a court order issued by the Attanagalle Magistrate’s Court.
Despite high expectations and the significant involvement of various government agencies, the operation did not uncover any treasure or items of archaeological value.
The excavation which began on 21 November, was overseen by the Department of Archaeology, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, the Veyangoda Police, the Road Development Authority, and the Mirigama Divisional Secretariat. The search was launched after the Police Special Task Force (STF) reportedly found evidence suggesting the presence of buried items at the site, a location that has been a hotspot for treasure hunters over the years.
During the operation, workers encountered a massive rock that required drilling after attempts to lift it using a crane were unsuccessful. This development prolonged the search, fueling speculation about what lay beneath. However, after exhaustive efforts, officials confirmed that no significant findings were made.
The site, situated near the Central Expressway construction project, has a history of being targeted by treasure hunters, with multiple previous excavations and arrests of individuals caught with treasure-hunting equipment. Earlier inspections by the Department of Archaeology had similarly concluded that the site held no hidden treasure.
Despite the absence of discoveries, the operation highlighted the importance of preserving archaeological sites and ensuring that investigations are conducted under legal and professional oversight.
Officials have now closed the site, and any further excavation will require new evidence and approval from the relevant authorities.
