Sri Lanka Intensifies Cybercrime Crackdown, Hundreds of Foreign Nationals Arrested

Sri Lanka has launched one of its largest-ever crackdowns on international cybercrime networks, resulting in the arrest of hundreds of foreign nationals over the past few weeks. Authorities say the operation is aimed at dismantling organized cyber fraud syndicates allegedly operating across the island nation.

According to reports, Sri Lankan police recently arrested 198 foreign nationals during coordinated raids conducted in southern tourist hotspots including Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Midigama. Among those detained were 173 Indian nationals and 25 citizens from Nepal. Investigators suspect many of them were involved in online financial fraud and cyber scam activities while staying in the country on tourist visas.

Police officials stated that several suspects had overstayed their visas and were illegally engaged in cybercrime-related operations. During the raids, authorities seized laptops, mobile phones, computers, and other electronic devices believed to have been used in scam networks.

The latest operation follows another major crackdown in Colombo, where more than 260 foreign nationals — mostly from China and Vietnam — were arrested over alleged involvement in cyberscam centers. Sri Lankan investigators believe these groups are linked to larger international criminal syndicates carrying out cryptocurrency scams, fake investment schemes, and online romance fraud targeting victims worldwide.

Officials have acknowledged that Sri Lanka’s relatively easy visa access and growing digital infrastructure may have made the country an attractive base for international cybercrime operations. Reports suggest that since January 2026, over 600 foreign nationals have been arrested in connection with cyber fraud activities across the country.

The large number of Indian nationals detained has drawn significant international attention. Security analysts believe Sri Lanka is now strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries and regional law enforcement agencies to combat cross-border cybercrime more aggressively.

Authorities have also indicated that further investigations and additional arrests are likely in the coming weeks as the nationwide operation continues.