A man was sentenced to six months in prison and fined Rs 5,000 by the Jaffna Magistrate Court for artificially ripening bananas using unauthorized dye ahead of a temple festival in Vadamarachchi.

Authorities said the individual acquired 424 bunches of bananas, totaling more than 8,000 kilograms, which were treated with prohibited chemicals to accelerate the ripening process instead of allowing the fruit to ripen naturally. The bananas were intended for sale during the festival, raising concerns about potential health risks.

The action followed a raid conducted by the area’s Public Health Inspector, S. Uthayabala, who discovered the illegal activity. Upon being charged, the suspect admitted guilt, leading the court to impose the custodial sentence and monetary penalty as a deterrent against the use of harmful substances in food preparation.

Officials emphasized the importance of enforcing regulations to protect public health, particularly during large community events where food safety standards must be maintained.