The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) has instructed all telecommunications service providers to block access to 146 unlicensed online gambling websites operating in the country.
TRCSL Director General Bandula Herath said the directive was issued as part of efforts to curb illegal online gambling activities and prevent users in Sri Lanka from accessing the identified websites.
According to the TRCSL, the action was taken following a notification from the Gambling Regulatory Authority, which operates under the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, in terms of the powers vested under the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority has noted that operating or promoting online gambling services in Sri Lanka without a valid licence is an offence under Sections 15, 16 and 18 of the Act and is punishable under Section 44.
Authorities said the move is aimed at strengthening the enforcement of laws governing online gambling and preventing unauthorised operators from offering services within the country. (Newswire)