China and Sri Lanka have strengthened law enforcement cooperation to combat cross-border online gambling, telecom fraud and other organised crimes, as authorities warn that criminal networks are increasingly shifting operations to Sri Lanka.
According to a statement published by the Chinese Embassy in Colombo, the two countries have expanded practical cooperation since the beginning of 2026. Sri Lankan authorities have carried out several enforcement operations that disrupted gambling and fraud syndicates and led to the arrest of suspects from multiple countries.
The Embassy said a number of Chinese nationals linked to fraud-related offences have also been handed over to Chinese authorities. It noted that these repatriation efforts have had a significant deterrent effect on criminal groups operating across borders.
Focus on online gambling and telecom fraud
Chinese officials identified online gambling and telecom fraud as the main forms of transnational organised crime currently being targeted by both countries.
Authorities said these activities are often connected to a wider network of offences, including human trafficking, money laundering, kidnapping, illegal detention and unlawful border crossings. The Embassy stated that criminal organisations frequently combine several of these activities within the same operation, creating broader security concerns for affected countries.
The latest enforcement actions form part of a wider effort by Beijing and Colombo to dismantle criminal networks that operate across national borders and exploit digital technologies to reach victims.
Criminal groups shifting operations
The Chinese Embassy said tougher enforcement measures in East and Southeast Asia have forced many criminal groups to relocate their activities. According to Chinese officials, some of these operators are now attempting to establish new bases in Sri Lanka.
The statement highlighted Sri Lanka’s telecommunications infrastructure, strategic location and relatively accessible visa policies as factors that may attract transnational criminal organisations seeking alternative operating hubs.
Chinese authorities warned that these groups often adapt quickly to changing regulatory environments and move operations to jurisdictions where they believe enforcement risks are lower.
Sri Lankan authorities receive recognition
The Embassy praised the efforts of several Sri Lankan government agencies involved in the crackdown. These included the ministries responsible for Foreign Affairs, Finance and Public Security, as well as immigration authorities and police services.
Chinese officials said close coordination between agencies in both countries has played an important role in identifying suspects, disrupting criminal activities and facilitating cross-border investigations.
The statement also warned that organised crime activities could harm Sri Lanka’s international reputation, affect community stability and pose risks to public safety if left unchecked.
China reaffirms anti-gambling policy
China reiterated its long-standing position on overseas gambling activities. The Embassy stated that Chinese capital is prohibited from investing in casinos outside China and that Chinese citizens are not allowed to operate overseas casinos.
In addition, foreign casinos are prohibited from targeting or soliciting Chinese nationals.
Chinese authorities also pointed to recent amendments to the country’s criminal law, which classify cross-border gambling activities as criminal offences. The measures form part of China’s broader campaign against illegal gambling and related financial crimes.
Part of a wider international strategy
The cooperation with Sri Lanka follows similar law enforcement partnerships China has pursued with several countries, including Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Myanmar and Cambodia.
According to the Embassy, these partnerships have resulted in arrests, extraditions and repatriations linked to online gambling and telecom fraud cases.
China said it plans to continue expanding security and law enforcement cooperation with Sri Lanka under the framework of its Global Security Initiative, with a focus on tackling transnational organised crime and strengthening regional security.
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