China has expressed strong support for Sri Lanka’s ongoing crackdown on telecom and online fraud, following the recent arrest of 134 foreign nationals, including 126 Chinese citizens, in Anuradhapura and Mihintale.
In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Colombo said it is closely monitoring developments and supports Sri Lankan authorities in taking firm action against suspects, while ensuring their legitimate rights are protected in accordance with the law.
The embassy noted that telecom and online fraud has become a global problem, with criminal networks shifting operations across countries. It said some groups have moved to Sri Lanka in recent years due to its developed telecommunications infrastructure and other favourable conditions.
China said it has been working closely with Sri Lankan law enforcement agencies to combat such crimes, including previous operations that led to the arrest and repatriation of Chinese nationals involved in fraud.
Reaffirming long-standing bilateral ties, the embassy said China is ready to further strengthen cooperation with Sri Lanka, including joint investigations and coordinated efforts to tackle cross-border cybercrime.
Sri Lankan authorities earlier this week arrested 134 foreign nationals during a joint operation targeting an organised online scam network, seizing a large number of electronic devices used in the alleged fraud activities. (Newswire)