The Sri Lanka Police has urged the public to remain vigilant about the misuse of lost or stolen mobile phones, warning that such devices are often exploited for unlawful activities.
According to the Police, complaints relating to the loss, misplacement, and theft of mobile phones are reported daily to police stations across the island. In particular, when a mobile phone is lost, misplaced, or stolen, there is a significant risk of misuse if the device falls into the hands of unauthorized individuals.
The Police warned that the public must remain vigilant regarding such potential misuse and take immediate precautionary measures. It has been observed that lost or stolen mobile phones are frequently used for anti-social, unlawful, and illicit activities. In such instances, the legitimate owners of the devices often become victims.
Based on complaints received to date, it is evident that criminals are able to exploit mobile phones containing sensitive data, including financial details, personal information, photographs, and other confidential material to achieve their unlawful objectives, the Police further said.
There are several important steps that should be followed if a mobile phone is lost or stolen:
- Immediately deactivate the SIM card.
SIM deactivation can be carried out through the respective service provider from whom the SIM card was obtained. This action prevents third parties from using the phone for illegal or anti-social activities. Deactivating the SIM card also facilitates the recovery process if the device is in another person’s possession.
- Provide the IMEI number when lodging a complaint.
When reporting a lost or stolen mobile phone to the Sri Lanka Police, it is D/Media/Out/ 263 /2025 12.02.2026 Hrs 1525 essential to include the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
- Keep a record of the IMEI number and service details.
It is the responsibility of mobile phone users to securely retain their device’s IMEI number and related service information before any loss or theft. The IMEI number can be obtained by dialling *#06# on the mobile phone.
Furthermore, the Sri Lanka Police has introduced a software-based system to trace mobile phones. Individuals may register their details by visiting the official website: ineed.police.lk. Upon submission of the relevant information, the Sri Lanka Police will promptly initiate appropriate action.
In 2024, the Sri Lanka Police successfully recovered 2,796 lost mobile phones and returned them to their rightful owners. Additionally, 928 stolen mobile phones were released to the public following accurate data verification, and legal action was instituted against the offenders.
In 2025, 2,355 lost mobile phones were recovered, and 1,019 individuals in possession of stolen phones were apprehended, with legal proceedings initiated accordingly.
Moreover, if a person finds property that does not belong to them, they should immediately hand it over to the nearest police station or a police officer and obtain an acknowledgement receipt or officially lodge a report.
Retaining property that does not belong to oneself constitutes a criminal offence under the Sri Lanka Penal Code, identified as criminal misappropriation. This offence may result in imprisonment of up to two (02) years. Therefore, unlawfully keeping another person’s property in one’s possession is punishable by law. Furthermore, any individual who knowingly purchases stolen mobile phones or other stolen property at a reduced price and retains such items commits an offence and may face imprisonment of up to three (03) years.
The Police noted that when purchasing a new or second-hand mobile phone, the public can verify whether the device has been reported to a police station as lost or stolen through the “Find Genuine Phone” feature available in the “I Need” system.
Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Police advises the public to exercise due diligence regarding the source and authenticity of mobile phones prior to purchase. (Newswire)