- Police urge the public to be vigilant, and report online crime
- Digital forensics swamped with suspect’s devices
A group of Chinese and Indian nationals who were arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on charges of committing online financial fraud are to face multiple charges, the Police said yesterday (30 June).
As a result of investigations carried out thus far by the CID, several Chinese and Indian nationals suspected of committing financial frauds through online platforms while staying in Sri Lanka were arrested in the last few days.
An official from the Police Media Division (PMD) told The Daily Morning yesterday that a total of 137 suspects have been arrested by the CID including 31 Chinese nationals.
Speaking to the media, Police Media Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Nihal Thalduwa said that the suspects would face multiple legal charges. Due to the seriousness of their actions impacting the national economy and security, he said that they could be prosecuted under the Computer Crime Act No. 7 of 2007, adding those who committed offences while in Sri Lanka on tourist visas could face charges under the Immigrants and Emigrants (Amendment) Act, No. 31 of 2006. He highlighted that their involvement in financial fraud through online means could lead to charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act No. 5 of 2006.
He further said that ongoing investigations are focused on prosecuting the masterminds behind the online financial frauds in which the arrested suspects were involved. He emphasised the importance of public cooperation, urging anyone with information about individuals renting properties and engaging in such illegal activities to come forward and inform the Police. DIG Thalduwa stressed the need for vigilance among property owners and the general public, advising them to be aware of the activities conducted by their tenants to prevent misuse of rented premises.
The CID arrested the suspects following raids at multiple locations. They had also seized a total of 158 mobile phones, 16 laptops, and 60 desktop computers from some of the suspects during the operations.