Sri Lanka intensifies crackdown on cybercrime and organized crime networks

Sri Lankan authorities are intensifying operations to dismantle organized crime, cybercrime, and drug trafficking networks. In a major crackdown on cybercrime and financial fraud, police have arrested 1,093 foreign nationals across 27 operations so far this year. Police spokesperson F. U. Wootler noted that these criminal networks increasingly utilize digital platforms, social media, and online financial systems to target victims both within Sri Lanka and abroad.

Simultaneously, Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya announced efforts to locate and repatriate 73 individuals subject to Interpol Red Notices. These suspects are alleged to be organized crime figures and drug traffickers living overseas. Investigations are also ongoing regarding nearly 100 other individuals suspected of links to narcotics trade and criminal networks.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that international cooperation remains vital to these campaigns. The IGP stated that foreign governments and diplomatic missions have supported the transparency of these investigations. To prevent criminal groups from using local infrastructure as operational bases, police have urged property owners and hotel operators to strictly verify the identities of foreign tenants and report arrivals or departures to the nearest police station.