A dangerous influx of Chinese nationals banned from their own country is raising alarm in Sri Lanka, as intelligence reports reveal a major computer fraud network operating under official residence permits and even Ministry of Defense clearance. Experts warn this could jeopardize Sri Lanka’s economy and international concessions.
The Sri Lankan government is now focusing on a covert and expanding operation by Chinese nationals that could result in a severe economic and security threat similar to the infamous Golden Triangle network across Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.
The Department of Immigration and Emigration has disclosed that a number of Chinese individuals already blacklisted in their home country for computer fraud have successfully obtained Sri Lankan residence permits. Alarmingly, these permits were issued with the backing of senior officials in various government bodies, including the Police and the Ministry of Defense.
According to reports, these Chinese fraudsters many of whom are barred from re-entering China have already captured around 60% of Cambodia’s GDP through similar operations. International relations experts caution that if such fraudulent activity continues unchecked in Sri Lanka, the country could face devastating consequences including threats to its immigration credibility and the loss of trade benefits like the GSP Plus concession.
The Chinese government has taken a zero-tolerance stance against these criminals. One Chinese national, deported from Sri Lanka, was given the death sentence upon his return to China. He had used a Guinean visa to gain entry, despite China already issuing a red warrant against him.
It has now been revealed that several arrested Chinese nationals in Sri Lanka possessed fraudulent residential visas backed by all necessary government clearances, including direct approval from the Ministry of Defense. These individuals originally entered the country using tourist visas, which legally prevent them from earning income or setting up businesses.
Information gathered by the Border Surveillance Unit and handed to the State Intelligence Service shows that these individuals are now establishing IT companies, primarily in Colombo’s Port City, and are recruiting Sri Lankan employees with high salaries and specific digital performance targets.
Intelligence agencies are also raising red flags about the legitimacy of these operations, as many companies run by these groups have mismatched contact information, and in some cases, no valid contact details at all. These operations are believed to be financed through millions of rupees in undeclared foreign investments.
Authorities are expected to submit a full report next week to top government officials, including President Ranil Wickremesinghe, outlining the scale of the problem and recommending urgent action to prevent a national security and economic crisis.
