Sri Lankan authorities have arrested another group of Chinese nationals suspected of engaging in cyber-related financial crimes, intensifying concerns about a growing network of foreign cyber criminals operating within the country. The latest arrests took place early this morning at Katunayake Airport, where nine individuals arriving from China were taken into custody by Airport Customs officials.
According to authorities, the suspects landed at 12:25 a.m. on China Eastern Airlines flight MU-6912 from Kunming. Upon inspection, Customs officers discovered a large cache of electronic communication devices concealed on their bodies. The group had reportedly used cellophane tape to hide 383 used mobile phones, 101 tablet computers, and six WiFi routers beneath their clothing, indicating a coordinated attempt to bypass detection.
Officials confirmed that the seized equipment is valued at over Rs. 220 million, pointing to the scale and sophistication of the suspected operation. The suspects are currently being held by Airport Customs as investigations continue into their intended activities and possible local connections.
Security sources have expressed growing concern over what they describe as an ongoing influx of organized cyber crime groups linked to China. In recent months, hundreds of Chinese nationals involved in similar cyber financial crimes have been arrested and subsequently deported from Sri Lanka. Despite these efforts, authorities believe that a significant number of organized cyber criminals may still be operating within the country, posing an ongoing threat to financial systems and national security.
