Sri Lanka Police have issued a public warning over a rise in incidents involving women being targeted through social media and other communication platforms by individuals who deceive victims for financial gain, sexual exploitation and other criminal activities.
In a statement, the Police Media Division said reports have been received from various parts of the country regarding cases where women were befriended online, manipulated and subsequently subjected to sexual abuse or cheated out of money and valuables.
Police said some suspects have allegedly used intoxicating substances to render victims unconscious before carrying out abuse or theft, while others gained the trust of women by promising marriage and later obtaining money and property through deception. In certain cases, such incidents have reportedly ended in serious crimes, including murder.
The statement noted that Police officers across the island, including intelligence and community policing units, have been instructed to remain vigilant and gather information on individuals who may be involved in such activities.
Police advised the public not to hand over money, jewellery or other valuables to persons met through social media or online platforms and to avoid sharing sensitive photographs, videos or personal information with unknown individuals. They also urged the public to be cautious of suspicious phone calls, messages and invitations to meet strangers.
Anyone who becomes a victim of such a scam, or is aware of someone affected, has been requested to immediately inform the nearest Police station or the Children and Women Bureau. Emergency assistance can also be sought through the Police hotline numbers 118, 119, 107 or 109.
The Sri Lanka Police called on the public to remain alert and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes that threaten personal safety, dignity and property. (Newswire)