A 19-year-old woman has been arrested over the alleged theft of Rs. 620,000 from a Russian tourist who was staying at a guesthouse in the Pillagoda area of Unawatuna, police said.
The suspect is the daughter of the owner of the tourist accommodation, according to the Unawatuna Tourist Police.
Police said the arrest was made following a complaint lodged by the foreign national, who had reported that a sum of Rs. 620,000 had been stolen from his possession while he was staying at the premises.
Officers launched an immediate investigation and made the arrest within hours.
Investigators said hidden camera footage installed inside the room by the tourist had captured images of the suspect allegedly entering the room without permission. The footage was used as key evidence in the investigation.
Police also said information has emerged suggesting that similar incidents may have taken place at the same guesthouse on previous occasions. Further inquiries are being conducted to determine whether there are additional complaints linked to the premises.
The suspect is due to be produced before the Galle Magistrate’s Court today (24 Feb). The Unawatuna Tourist Police are continuing investigations. (Newswire)