Man arrested in Battaramulla over Canada job scam
Police in Battaramulla arrested a 65-year-old man accused of running a scheme that promised jobs in Canada to Sri Lankan jobseekers. Complainants say the suspect asked for fees and documents, promising overseas employment that never arrived.
Allegations of large-scale job fraud and Rs. 40 million loss
The Special Investigations Unit of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) and the police say victims paid more than Rs. 40 million in total. Copies of complaints and the case file seen by Lakbima News list several people who reported upfront payments for visas and placement services that were not provided.
False credentials and quick overseas placement claims
Complaints allege the suspect claimed to have been the Canadian ambassador in 1988–89 and promised placement within two and a half months. Victims told investigators they received forged or incomplete paperwork and repeated assurances that later proved false. At least one complainant provided copies of documents that appear altered, which are now part of the investigation file.
Investigation by CCIB and court remand
The Central Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) linked the man to other alleged financial frauds and bogus recruitment cases in the remand application. Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court remanded him until September 10, according to court documents viewed by Lakbima News.
Police urge anyone offered guaranteed jobs abroad to insist on verifiable paperwork, confirm recruitment licences with the SLBFE, and file complaints promptly. Lakbima News has seen copies of the complaints lodged with the SLBFE and the arrest record held by the CCIB.
