The Special Investigation Unit of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has raided a foreign employment agency that continued to recruit workers despite its licence being temporarily suspended over allegations of fraud.
Acting on information that the agency was operating illegally from Sri Priyadarshanarama Mawatha in Maradana, SLBFE officers conducted a raid yesterday (20). Investigations revealed that Ideal Manpower, which had its licence suspended following 85 complaints related to foreign employment fraud, had resumed operations at a different location despite the ban.
Officers arrested the licence holder of the agency along with three staff members. A total of 256 passports and other documents found at the premises were seized.
The suspects are expected to be produced before the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court today (21).
The SLBFE urges all job seekers to verify the legitimacy of any institution before handing over money or passports. Information on licensed agencies and approved job orders can be obtained through the Bureau’s website www.slbfe.lk or by calling the hotline 1989.
