COLOMBO – Sri Lanka Police have warned of a growing number of cases in which women are being targeted for sexual abuse, financial fraud and theft by individuals posing as romantic partners or trusted acquaintances on social media and online platforms.
In a public advisory issued on Monday (22), police cited a rise in complaints from across the country involving deception, exploitation and serious crime, urging women and the wider public to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online.
According to police, suspects have been gaining women’s trust through social media and messaging applications before subjecting them to various forms of abuse. Some victims were allegedly drugged after being offered food or beverages laced with intoxicating substances, leaving them vulnerable to sexual assault and theft. Others were defrauded of money, jewellery and valuables after suspects made false promises of marriage or long-term relationships. Police said some incidents have escalated to violent attacks and murder.
The Inspector General of Police has expressed concern at the increase in complaints and instructed police stations islandwide to strengthen intelligence gathering and monitoring through community policing and local informant networks.
Police advised the public not to send money or valuables to individuals whose identities cannot be independently verified, and to avoid sharing photographs, videos or personal information with strangers. Sensitive details, including national identity card numbers, bank account information, passwords and security codes, should never be disclosed to unknown persons. The public was also cautioned against accepting invitations to meet individuals known only through online contact.
Anyone who becomes a victim or suspects fraudulent activity is urged to report the matter to the nearest police station or the Children and Women Bureau or the emergency hotlines: 118, 119, 107, 109.
-ENCL
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