Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 1,093 foreign nationals allegedly involved in cyber crime operations during 2026 alone, part of a broader enforcement campaign that has netted 1,692 arrests since 2024.

Sri Lanka's law enforcement has escalated operations against international cyber crime networks operating within the country, targeting foreign nationals accused of orchestrating large-scale online fraud schemes. According to Police Spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler, the crackdown aims to protect both Sri Lankan citizens and victims abroad who have fallen victim to digital scams and financial fraud conducted through social media and online platforms.

The scale of arrests has grown substantially over recent years. Police records show 573 foreign nationals were arrested in connection with cyber crimes across 26 separate incidents in 2024, followed by 26 arrests in two incidents during 2025. The numbers surged dramatically in 2026, with authorities arresting 1,093 individuals across 27 operations, bringing the three-year total to 1,692 arrests. Wootler stated that security authorities, operating under guidance from the Ministry of Defence and the Inspector General of Police, have coordinated efforts specifically to disrupt these networks and prevent online financial crimes.

Beyond arrests, authorities have implemented deportation and repatriation procedures to remove individuals from the country. Police have also issued warnings to property owners, landlords and hotel operators, cautioning that cyber crime operations have allegedly used rented premises as operational bases. Authorities are urging property owners to verify tenant identities and documentation before entering rental agreements. Under Article 76 of the Police Ordinance, citizens are legally required to notify their nearest police station of the arrival and departure of foreign guests and tenants, a measure authorities are emphasizing as part of enforcement efforts.