Colombo: Sri Lankan authorities have launched a major crackdown on cybercrime and online fraud networks, arresting nearly 200 foreign nationals, including 173 Indian citizens, during coordinated late-night raids across multiple tourist destinations. Officials said the detainees are accused of involvement in cybercrime operations, visa violations, and several other illegal activities.
Raids Conducted Across Tourist Hotspots
According to Sri Lankan police and security agencies, the arrests were carried out in prominent tourist regions such as Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Midigama. Investigators had reportedly been monitoring a suspected foreign network that was allegedly using tourist visas as cover while operating cyber fraud and digital scam activities from within the country.
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Officials said the arrested group included 173 Indian nationals and 25 Nepali citizens. In total, 198 foreign nationals were taken into custody. Preliminary investigations suggest that several of the suspects may be linked to organised cybercrime syndicates involved in online financial fraud, fake investment schemes, and digital scam operations targeting victims across different countries.
Authorities stated that many of the detained individuals were allegedly overstaying in Sri Lanka after the expiry of their tourist visas. Investigators also claim that several foreign nationals were engaged in unauthorised employment activities. In addition, imported cigarettes and other suspicious materials were reportedly recovered during the raids, prompting parallel investigations into possible smuggling and illegal trade operations.
Cybercrime and Visa Violations
Police officials said the primary charges have been filed under Sri Lanka’s cybercrime laws. Investigators are now examining the digital platforms, communication tools, and technologies allegedly used by the suspects. Security agencies suspect that the network may have been involved in cross-border cyber fraud, online financial scams, and identity-related digital crimes.
Cybersecurity observers say South Asian countries have witnessed a sharp rise in online fraud operations run by transnational groups in recent years. Such networks often use tourist hubs, rented villas, and temporary accommodations as operational bases in order to avoid attracting local attention.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said international cyber syndicates are increasingly operating across borders and choosing countries where long-term stays on tourist visas are relatively easier. He noted that these groups frequently use digital payment systems, cryptocurrency transactions, and social engineering techniques to target victims in multiple countries.
Digital Devices and International Links Examined
Sri Lanka has been conducting sustained operations against cybercrime groups over the past several months. Earlier, authorities had also arrested nearly 250 Chinese nationals in separate cyber fraud investigations. According to official figures, a total of 628 foreign nationals had been detained for alleged involvement in cybercrime-related activities between the beginning of the year and May 5.
Investigators are now analysing seized mobile phones, laptops, banking records, internet activity logs, and international communication links connected to the arrested suspects. Authorities are also trying to determine whether the network has links with larger cyber fraud syndicates operating in other countries.
Officials said the investigation is still at an early stage and more disclosures are expected in the coming days. Sri Lankan security agencies are reportedly coordinating with foreign investigative authorities to trace the structure, financial operations, and international connections of the suspected cybercrime network.
