Key facts
- Sri Lankan police are seeking six suspects in the murder of a Chinese national.
- The victim is believed to be part of a larger group involved in computer-related scams.
- Around 700 foreign nationals have been arrested this year for suspected cybercrime links.
- Two Chinese nationals have been arrested in connection with the murder.
- Three suspects are believed to be in Sri Lanka with travel bans, while three who left are being traced internationally.
Sri Lankan police are actively searching for six individuals in connection with the murder of a Chinese national, who is suspected of being involved in cybercrime operations. The body of the victim was recovered a week ago in Eheliyagoda, approximately 60 km from the capital, Colombo, after he was reportedly abducted.
Authorities have arrested around 700 foreign nationals this year, including individuals from India, China, Nepal, and Vietnam, from various locations across the island. These arrests are part of a broader crackdown on cyber scam centers believed to be linked to transnational fraud networks. Police data indicates this figure is nearly double that of the previous year.
Police spokesman Frederick Wootler stated that three suspects linked to the murder are believed to still be in Sri Lanka and have been placed under a travel ban. Additionally, three other suspects who have left the country are being traced with the support of Interpol. Two Chinese nationals connected to the murder have already been arrested and are scheduled to appear in court on August 4.
Sources within the police department indicated that the victim is suspected of being part of a larger network of Chinese nationals engaged in computer-related scams. Investigations have uncovered hundreds of mobile phones, laptops, and desktop computers during nationwide raids, reinforcing the suspicion of ties to cybercrime networks. Most of those arrested have been deported for visa violations or for working on tourist visas.