A group of 125 Chinese nationals detained in Sri Lanka for involvement in online financial fraud has been deported.
According to the Department of Immigration and Emigration, the deportation was carried out using a special aircraft sent from China following discussions between the two governments.
The individuals had been arrested on March 17 in Anuradhapura, where they were found staying in several lodges and engaging in internet‑based financial scams.
Investigations revealed that the group had entered Sri Lanka on tourist and business visas but remained in violation of immigration laws.
They were subsequently held at the Welisara Detention Centre until arrangements were made for deportation.
A team of officials from China’s Immigration Department, accompanied by a doctor, arrived in Sri Lanka to oversee the process.
The deportation took place last night, with six officials from Sri Lanka’s Immigration Department also traveling to China alongside the group. (Newswire)