Sri Lanka Arrests Rise as Suspected Scammers Relocate from Cambodia and Myanmar

Sri Lankan police have arrested more than 1,000 foreign nationals since January for alleged cybercrime involvement, a sharp increase from 430 arrests recorded for all of 2024. Police spokesman Fredrick Wootler said the suspects are mainly from China, Vietnam, and India. Officials attribute the rise to scam networks relocating after crackdowns in Cambodia and Myanmar.

Lanka's relaxed visa rules and high-speed internet have drawn criminal groups to the island. Networks have rented spaces ranging from luxury villas to office complexes to set up operations. Last month, customs officers intercepted nine Chinese nationals attempting to bring in hundreds of used mobile phones and laptops, which authorities suspect were intended for fraud activities.

Fraud compounds in Southeast Asia have historically targeted Chinese speakers but have expanded into multiple languages. Common schemes include fake romantic relationships, cryptocurrency investment fraud, and online betting platforms. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as enforcement actions in neighboring countries push networks toward new locations.