Sri Lanka Arrests 37 Chinese Nationals in Suspected cyber scam

Introduction

Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 37 Chinese nationals in Colombo over allegations of operating a cyber scam centre. According to Beyond Time News, the arrests are part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on foreign-linked online fraud operations.

Arrests Following Intelligence Tip-Off

Police said the suspects were detained after receiving a tip-off about illegal online activities in the capital.

In addition, officials confirmed that the group included 36 men and one woman, aged between 23 and 44.

Authorities stated that most of the suspects had entered Sri Lanka on tourist visas but were allegedly working illegally. Two individuals were also found to have overstayed their visas.

Equipment and Materials Seized

During the raid in the Talangama suburb of Colombo, police recovered a large number of electronic devices.

Furthermore, seized items included:

• 35 tablet computers
• 147 mobile phones
• 100 SIM cards

Officials believe these devices were being used for cyber-related fraudulent activities.

Part of a Larger Crackdown

This latest arrest follows several similar operations in recent months.

For instance, last month, authorities detained over 150 foreign nationals—mostly Chinese—linked to another suspected scam network operating from a hotel in northwestern Sri Lanka.

Earlier, immigration officials also arrested more than 130 Chinese citizens in a separate case, many of whom were later deported.

Growing Concern Over Cyber Fraud

Sri Lankan authorities have increased surveillance on cybercrime activities involving foreign nationals.

In addition, officials have reported that improved telecom infrastructure and relaxed visa policies have made the country a target for international fraud networks.

Beijing’s embassy in Colombo has previously stated it is cooperating with Sri Lankan authorities to prevent such illegal activities involving Chinese citizens.

Read more:Cyberattack Hits Sri Lanka Finance Ministry, $2.5 Million Stolen

Previous Incidents

In 2024, Sri Lankan law enforcement detained hundreds of foreign nationals, including Chinese and Indian citizens, accused of running cybercrime operations across the island.

As a result, authorities have intensified monitoring and enforcement actions against suspected scam centres.

Final Note

Sri Lanka’s latest arrests highlight ongoing concerns over cybercrime operations involving foreign nationals. Ultimately, authorities say strict action will continue to prevent the country from being used as a base for online fraud networks.