A group of Chinese nationals accused of carrying out an online fraud operation from Sri Lanka by impersonating government agencies in several U.S. states, including Colorado, has been arrested by the Central Crimes Investigation Bureau (CCIB).
Investigations have revealed that the suspects allegedly defrauded a large number of individuals both locally and internationally through online scams.
Authorities said intelligence received by the State Intelligence Service and the CCIB indicated that a group of Chinese nationals based in Kiribathgoda and Kollupitiya were engaged in internet-based financial fraud.
Acting on the information, investigators conducted a raid on Wednesday night and arrested 17 Chinese nationals and a young woman from Laos.
Preliminary investigations have found that the suspects had allegedly prepared forged documents and used them to carry out online financial scams.
Officials also recovered a stock of forged documents bearing seals and insignia purporting to be from government institutions in several U.S. states, including Colorado.
In addition, investigators seized 62 passports, a number of mobile phones, and several other items believed to be connected to the alleged operation.
Further investigations are underway.
