Online financial scam: 137 Indians netted

• 158 mobile phones, 16 laptops and 60 desktop computers were seized  

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) conducted a widespread operation, resulting in the apprehension of 137 Indian nationals suspected of being involved in a large-scale online financial scam across multiple locations in the country.  

According to Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa, the arrests took place in Negombo, Kochchikade, Madiwela (Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte), and Thalangama (Battaramulla).  

In Negombo, 55 suspects were detained, along with 55 mobile phones and 29 computers seized. Similarly, in Kochchikade, authorities apprehended 53 individuals and confiscated 31 computers and 58 mobile phones.  
The operation in Madiwela led to the arrest of 13 suspects and recovery of eight laptops and 38 mobile phones, while in Thalangama, 16 suspects were taken into custody with eight laptops and 38 mobile phones recovered.  
Accordingly, a total of 158 mobile phones, 16 laptops and 60 desktop computers were seized from the suspects.  
All the arrested suspects are males, the Spokesman said.