A spokesperson said that the group was removed on a special aircraft sent from China following discussions with the Chinese government.
The suspects were arrested on March 17 during a joint operation conducted by Army Intelligence units and the Department of Immigration and Emigration while staying at several lodges in the Anuradhapura area. Investigations revealed that the individuals had violated immigration laws after entering the country on tourist and business visas.
Following their arrest, the suspects were detained at the Welisara Detention Centre of the Department of Immigration and Emigration. After discussions with the Chinese government, a decision was taken to remove them from the country.
A team of officials from China’s immigration authorities, along with a doctor, arrived in Sri Lanka on the special flight arranged for the removal. Six officials from Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration also accompanied the group to China.
