Police raid Panadura hotel housing 32 Chinese nationals

Police have raided a hotel in Nalloruwa, Panadura, where 32 Chinese nationals were staying, over suspected involvement in online financial fraud and other illegal activities.

The raid was conducted on November 6 and 7 by officers of the Panadura Divisional Crime Investigation Unit following information received by the Senior Superintendent of Police in charge of the Panadura Division.

Police obtained a search warrant from the Panadura Magistrate’s Court before carrying out the operation.

The operation was supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Police Special Task Force (STF), Criminal Records Division, Police Kennels Division and the Department of Official Languages.

Police said 23 computers and related equipment were found at the hotel and taken to the Panadura South Police Station for further examination.

The CID is conducting further investigations to determine whether any criminal offences were committed.

Police said several cases of financial fraud involving groups of foreign nationals operating from hotels, guesthouses, resorts and other accommodation facilities had been detected in recent months.

Accommodation providers have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.

The public has also been requested to provide information through the emergency hotlines 118 or 119 or the nearest police station.