June 28th 2024.
According to a report released on Friday, police have arrested 137 Indian citizens for their alleged involvement in a large-scale online financial scam that spanned multiple locations in Sri Lanka. The arrests took place on Thursday in three different areas - Madiwela, Battaramulla, and Negombo, all located near Colombo. The Police Spokesman, SSP Nihal Thalduwa, informed the Daily Mirror newspaper that the Criminal Investigations Department had conducted simultaneous raids in these areas and managed to seize a significant amount of evidence.
During the raids, a total of 158 mobile phones, 16 laptops, and 60 desktop computers were confiscated. In Negombo alone, 55 suspects were apprehended along with 55 mobile phones and 29 laptops. Similarly, in Kochchikade, authorities detained 53 individuals and seized 31 laptops and 58 mobile phones. The operation in Madiwela led to the arrest of 13 suspects and the recovery of eight laptops and 38 mobile phones. In Thalangama, 16 suspects were taken into custody with eight laptops and 38 mobile phones. All of the arrested individuals were identified as males.
The crackdown on these individuals was initiated after a victim reported being lured into a WhatsApp group with the promise of cash in exchange for social media interactions. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the victims were coerced into making deposits after receiving initial payments. In Peradeniya, a father-son duo confessed to aiding the fraudsters, as reported by the newspaper.
The evidence collected during a raid on a luxurious house in Negombo led to the initial arrest of 13 suspects and the seizure of 57 phones and computers. Additional operations in Negombo resulted in 19 more arrests, shedding light on international connections in Dubai and Afghanistan. The victims of this scam included both locals and foreigners, according to the report.
It is believed that the arrested individuals were involved in various illegal activities, such as financial fraud, illegal betting, and gambling. The police have taken strict action against them and are continuing to investigate the matter. This serves as a reminder to be cautious of online scams and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
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