Police have arrested a Battaramulla resident accused of defrauding multiple victims by promising employment opportunities in Canada. The suspect allegedly collected over Rs. 40 million while falsely claiming diplomatic credentials.
Authorities have taken a 65-year-old man into custody for operating an extensive employment fraud scheme targeting Sri Lankans seeking overseas jobs in Canada. The suspect, apprehended by the Special Investigations Unit of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment, is accused of collecting more than Rs. 40 million from victims across multiple locations.
According to police reports, the accused misrepresented his background to gain credibility with potential clients, claiming he had previously served as Canadian Ambassador during 1988-89. Using this false credential, he reportedly assured clients they could secure Canadian employment within two and a half months, collecting substantial fees for his purported placement services.
The Kaduwela Magistrate's Court remanded the suspect in custody until September 10 to allow investigations to proceed. According to police, the Central Crime Investigation Bureau has identified the accused as a suspect in multiple other financial fraud cases, suggesting this may be part of a broader pattern of criminal activity.
Victims who came forward to media outlets described how they were deceived into paying money based on the suspect's false promises and credentials. Authorities continue their investigation to identify additional victims and recover funds where possible.