China Seeks Deportation of Fugitive Arrested in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); A Chinese national identified as Shen Richard, who was arrested in Sri Lanka, has been identified as a suspect linked to child abuse, rape and cybercrime offences, according to investigators.

Authorities said the Chinese government had issued warrants against the suspect on two occasions, with the first warrant dating back to 2017.

Investigations conducted so far have revealed that the suspect arrived in Sri Lanka in 2024 and had been employed at an office located in Nugegoda.

Although three passports were reportedly found under the suspect's name, investigators said he had claimed that only the passport issued by Vanuatu belonged to him.

Police further stated that the suspect allegedly attempted to offer investigating officers USD 20,000 at the time of his arrest.

Investigators have also revealed that prior to arriving in Sri Lanka, the suspect had travelled to several countries, including Mexico, Japan and Thailand.

The 39-year-old suspect is reported to have legally separated from his spouse in 2020 and is the father of two children.

Authorities said China has already requested that steps be taken to deport the suspect at the earliest opportunity.

The Chinese national was arrested yesterday while staying at a luxury hotel in Colombo.

The operation was carried out by a team led by Police Inspector Ekanayake of the Colombo Central Crimes Investigation Division under the instructions of the Division's Director, Kamal Ariyawansa.

Following his production before court, the suspect was remanded until October 28.

Investigations into the matter are continuing.