• Total of 93 arrested so far linked to the scam
• Crackdown follows a complaint from a victim who was lured into a WhatsApp group promising cash for social media interactions

By Sheain Fernandopulle   
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has cracked down on a widespread online financial fraud network in Thalangama, Madiwela, and Negombo areas, apprehending at least 93 suspects, including foreigners involved in the scam.   
Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa told Daily Mirror that the raids resulted in the seizure of 192 mobile phones, 60 laptops, and 13 computers.   
The crackdown follows a complaint from a victim who was lured into a WhatsApp group promising cash for social media interactions.   
Further investigation revealed a scheme where victims were coerced into making deposits after initial payments. In Peradeniya, a father-son duo admitted to aiding the fraudsters.   
Key evidence uncovered during a luxury house raid in Negombo led to the initial arrest of 13 suspects and the seizure of 57 phones and computers. Subsequent operations in Negombo yielded 19 additional arrests, exposing international links in Dubai and Afghanistan. Victims included both locals and foreigners.   
The raid that took place yesterday (27) led to the arrest of 60 Indians.   
Further investigations are ongoing.