Cyber scam? Over 100 fleeing foreigners arrested in Chilaw (Video)

April 3, 2026 at 11:20 AM

A group of foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals, were detained following a raid on a leading hotel in Chilaw, with authorities now investigating a large number of computers found at the premises.

Police said the hotel had been leased to Chinese nationals about two months ago. According to reports, a significant number of computers were operating from the location, prompting suspicion among residents.

Area residents said the individuals had told them they were conducting computer-related training. However, locals grew suspicious due to the unusual number of foreign nationals staying at the hotel and informed the authorities.

Officials from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Police surrounded the hotel and carried out the operation. During the raid, several Chinese nationals reportedly broke glass windows and attempted to flee the premises.

Residents assisted authorities in apprehending those who escaped, while two individuals who sustained injuries during the incident were admitted to the Chilaw Hospital for treatment.

Locals said they initially believed only a few individuals were staying at the hotel, but during the operation, it was revealed that a large number, estimated between 100 and 150 people, were inside the premises.

The computers and related equipment found at the hotel have been taken for examination by CID officers, while further investigations are underway. (Newswire)