Authorities in Sri Lanka have raised concerns over a surge in Russian tourists engaging in prostitution, particularly in Colombo and star-class hotels, prompting intensified efforts to combat illicit activities among tourists.
A significant rise in the involvement of Russian tourists in prostitution has raised alarms among authorities in Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo and upscale hotels, prompting heightened vigilance to tackle illicit activities in the tourism sector.
The Controller General of Immigration and Emigration revealed that authorities have conducted multiple raids in southern regions to crack down on tourists flouting immigration regulations and indulging in unlawful enterprises. Instances of money laundering and other illicit activities have led to the deportation of numerous tourists, highlighting the gravity of the issue.
While acknowledging that instances of tourists engaging in prostitution are sporadic, making detection and apprehension challenging, the Controller General emphasized plans to bolster intelligence efforts to track down offenders across Colombo and other areas nationwide.
However, law enforcement sources disclosed a decrease in raids targeting tourists involved in illegal activities like prostitution, attributing the shift to heightened focus on the ‘Yukthiya’ operation aimed at combating crime and drug-related offenses.
The evolving landscape underscores the need for concerted efforts to address the complex interplay of tourism and criminal activities, ensuring the integrity of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector while safeguarding public safety.
