In a significant crackdown on cybercrime operations, Sri Lankan police arrested 173 Indian nationals late Monday, as part of an ongoing nationwide effort to combat digital fraud and related illegal activities. The arrests were made in the southern resort areas of Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Midigama, which are popular tourist destinations.
Details of the Arrests
According to reports from PTI, nearly 200 foreigners were apprehended in this operation, which also included 25 Nepalese nationals. All those arrested are aged between 25 and 35. Police officials stated that the suspects will be charged with multiple offenses, including abusing tourist visas by overstaying and taking up employment, possessing duty-free imported cigarettes, and engaging in activities covered under cybercrime laws.
Broader Crackdown on Cybercrime
The latest arrests come amid a wider crackdown on cybercrime in Sri Lanka. Earlier, authorities had arrested 250 Chinese nationals for similar offenses, and on May 7, 74 Vietnamese nationals were also detained. Law enforcement agencies have indicated that such groups are often linked to larger international syndicates that target victims abroad using digital platforms and communication systems.
Vulnerability and Visa Access
Officials noted that Sri Lanka's connectivity and visa access may have made it vulnerable to such operations. Some suspects are believed to have entered the country on short-term permits, exploiting the ease of travel to set up cybercrime operations. The arrests highlight the challenges faced by the country in regulating the entry and activities of foreign nationals, particularly in the context of rising digital fraud.
The Sri Lankan police continue to investigate and have warned that further arrests are expected as the crackdown intensifies. The Indian and Nepalese embassies have been informed about the detentions, and consular access is being provided to the arrested individuals.
