China pledges stronger cooperation with Sri Lanka to crack down on Telecom and online fraud

March 18 (Daily Mirror) - The Chinese Government says it will continue to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with Sri Lanka to combat telecom and online fraud, following the recent arrest of several foreign suspects, including Chinese nationals, by Sri Lankan authorities.

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy said it is closely monitoring reports that Sri Lankan law enforcement agencies have taken action against individuals involved in online fraud, noting that such crimes cause serious harm and have become a growing global threat. The embassy expressed full support for Sri Lankan authorities in taking firm action against suspects while ensuring their legitimate rights are protected in accordance with the law.

According to the statement, telecom and online fraud crimes are rapidly spreading across the world and have become a common danger faced by many countries. China noted that it has carried out joint operations with several nations, including Myanmar, Cambodia, and the United Arab Emirates, in recent years to dismantle fraud networks, resulting in the arrest of numerous criminal groups. However, some of these gangs have reportedly shifted operations to other parts of Southeast Asia.

The statement said Sri Lanka’s advanced telecommunications infrastructure, strategic geographical location, relatively relaxed visa policies, and the friendliness of its people have made the country a target for certain criminal groups engaged in telecom fraud aimed at Chinese citizens both in China and overseas. As a result, authorities have observed an increase in such cases in Sri Lanka in recent times.

China said it has maintained close communication with Sri Lankan law enforcement agencies and is actively promoting bilateral cooperation to counter online fraud. With joint efforts from both countries, Sri Lankan authorities arrested several Chinese nationals suspected of fraud in 2024, and the suspects were repatriated to China in batches in 2025 as part of ongoing cooperation.

Highlighting the long-standing friendship between China and Sri Lanka, the statement said both countries remain committed to expanding coordination in tackling cross-border crimes, including telecom and online fraud, through joint investigations and stronger law enforcement collaboration.

China expressed confidence that enhanced cooperation will help protect the safety and property of citizens in both countries while supporting broader practical cooperation between the two nations.