Sri Lankan authorities have arrested more than 130 foreign nationals in a major crackdown on alleged cyber fraud operations, highlighting growing concerns over the country being used as a base for cross-border online scams. The arrests were made during coordinated police raids conducted over two days in and around the capital, Colombo.
Coordinated Raids in Colombo Suburbs
According to police officials, the arrests were carried out in multiple operations targeting suspected cybercrime hubs in suburban areas of Colombo. In one such raid in Thalangama, 37 Chinese nationals were detained.
In a separate operation in Rajagiriya, authorities arrested over 100 individuals from various countries. Investigators said the suspects were operating from rented residential premises, which were allegedly being used as bases for online fraud activities.
FCRF Academy Launches Premier Anti-Money Laundering Certification Program
Multi-National Network Behind Fraud Operations
The arrested individuals reportedly belong to several countries, including China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Madagascar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Cambodia.
Officials indicated that the diversity of nationalities points to the existence of organised, cross-border cybercrime networks operating from Sri Lanka. These networks are suspected of carrying out online scams targeting victims in multiple countries using digital communication platforms.
Legal Action Under Computer Crimes Act
Police confirmed that those arrested have been booked under Sri Lanka’s Computer Crimes Act, which governs offences related to hacking, online fraud, and misuse of digital systems.
Authorities are currently examining seized digital devices and documents to trace the extent of the operations, identify victims, and uncover financial trails linked to the alleged scams.
Part of Wider Crackdown on Cybercrime
The latest arrests are part of a broader enforcement drive against cyber fraud networks operating within the island nation. Officials noted that similar operations in recent months have led to the detention of large groups of foreign nationals involved in online scams.
Law enforcement agencies believe Sri Lanka’s connectivity, infrastructure, and ease of movement may be factors exploited by such networks to establish operational bases. Investigations are ongoing to dismantle these syndicates and prevent further misuse of the country’s digital ecosystem.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
