Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Gampaha District MP Amila Prasad has alleged that Sri Lanka is facing a growing threat from organized cybercrime networks operating under the guise of foreign investments and business activities.
Speaking in Parliament, the MP claimed that certain foreign nationals, particularly groups linked to China, are allegedly exploiting weaknesses in the country’s visa and company registration systems to establish illegal online scam operations. He warned that Sri Lanka is gradually gaining a reputation as a “China-linked cybercrime hub” in the South Asian region.
According to MP Prasad, some foreign groups entering the country on tourist or business visas are allegedly involved in sophisticated financial fraud operations rather than legitimate commercial ventures. He stressed that these activities pose a serious threat to the country’s image, economic stability, and national security.
The MP further questioned whether sufficient monitoring mechanisms exist within state institutions to identify and prevent such illegal operations. He particularly criticized authorities responsible for digital and regulatory oversight, claiming that the absence of proper supervision has created an environment where unlawful cyber-related activities can flourish.
He also warned that the continuation of such incidents could discourage genuine international investors from engaging with Sri Lanka, especially at a time when the country is attempting to rebuild investor confidence and promote foreign direct investment projects.
His remarks come amid a series of recent police raids targeting foreign nationals accused of engaging in cyber-related financial fraud and immigration violations in different parts of the country.
Police recently arrested several foreign nationals in separate operations carried out in Colombo and the Southern Province over allegations linked to financial scams, visa violations, and unauthorized business activities. Authorities stated that investigations are continuing into organized networks suspected of operating illegal online schemes from rented properties and hotels.
Law enforcement officials have also revealed that hundreds of foreign nationals have been arrested so far this year over various illegal activities, including cybercrime-related offenses and violations of immigration laws.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that the rapid expansion of digital technologies, combined with weak regulatory enforcement and gaps in cyber monitoring systems, could make countries vulnerable to international cybercrime syndicates if preventive measures are not strengthened.
