A chef who preyed on young women aspiring to enter the modeling industry has been arrested by the Computer Crime Investigation Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department in a Sigiriya hotel.
Investigating officers suspect the perpetrator has sexually assaulted approximately 30 women aged 20 to 25.
The case unfolded when a Sri Lankan fashion design student studying in China returned home for a brief visit last December. She confided in her mother about needing to pursue modeling in Sri Lanka to advance her studies.
Upon searching Facebook, the mother encountered an account named Nadisha Bandara, advertising modeling opportunities. The account instructed the student to send photocopies and photos of her ID card, followed by requests for nude photos in various poses.
Subsequently, the perpetrator masquerading as a doctor advised the victim to undergo sensitivity checks and engage in sexual activities with the "doctor." The victim was then directed to meet at a Kadawata hotel.
When the victim arrived with her mother, the perpetrator threatened to release the nude photos if the police were involved. He fled, prompting the mother to report the incident to the Computer Crime Investigation Unit.
The investigation led to the arrest of the suspect, a chef at a Sigiriya hotel and a resident of Rajamalwatta in Kandy. During interrogation, he confessed to posing as a doctor to deceive young women with promises of modeling opportunities.
Two mobile phones seized from the suspect contained nude photos and videos of around 30 young women, police said.
