In a recent revelation by Sri Lankan Police Spokesman Deputy Inspector General Nihal Thalduwa, Sri Lanka has become a focal point for large-scale "scam camps" operated by international criminal networks. This disturbing trend has gained prominence this year following several high-profile raids exposing the extent of these operations.
According to SSP Thalduwa, these scam camps pose a significant threat to Sri Lanka's banking system, although there is currently no confirmation of breaches into local banking networks. However, he emphasized that these criminals have executed financial scams targeting other countries from Sri Lanka.
Recent crackdowns in Kandy, Panadura, and Athurugiriya resulted in the arrest of nearly 200 foreign nationals, predominantly Chinese citizens. These operations typically utilize small hotels, villas, or houses as bases, where criminals conduct illicit activities without leaving the premises, taking advantage of local amenities like food and pools.
SSP Thalduwa highlighted the importance of vigilance among property owners who rent to foreigners, urging them to incorporate clauses in lease agreements mandating regular inspections to prevent unwitting facilitation of criminal activities.
During recent raids, authorities seized approximately 500 mobile phones and 250 computers, underscoring the sophisticated nature of these operations. Investigations indicate that criminals select countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and other South Asian and Southeast Asian nations due to less stringent rental regulations and higher susceptibility to financial scams among local populations.
This development underscores the urgent need for enhanced vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and property owners to combat the growing menace of international scam networks using Sri Lanka as a base for their illicit activities.
