Your Tenant Could Be a Criminal : Police Urge Vigilance as Rented Properties Used for Illegal Activities

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police have issued a public advisory urging property owners to remain vigilant when renting or leasing houses, apartments, commercial buildings, and other premises, warning that such properties are increasingly being misused for fraudulent and criminal activities.

According to the Police Media Division, investigations have revealed that certain individuals and organised groups obtain residential and commercial properties on both short-term and long-term rental arrangements and subsequently use them to carry out unlawful activities.

In many cases, property owners remain unaware of the illegal operations taking place on their premises, which can lead to serious legal complications and, in some instances, criminal liability.

Police noted that during the past year and up to 2026, there has been a significant increase in the arrest of foreign nationals involved in sophisticated online financial fraud operations. These activities were conducted covertly from housing complexes, hotels, and lodges located in various parts of the country. In several instances, the suspects were also found to be in violation of Department of Immigration and Emigration regulations, and computers and other electronic equipment used to commit the offences were seized. Legal action has been taken by both the Department of Immigration and Emigration and the Sri Lanka Police.

The public has been reminded that under Section 76 of the Police Ordinance, police are legally empowered to obtain information regarding all individuals residing in a household. The head of the household is required to provide details of family members, domestic staff, and temporary occupants to the relevant police station. Any change in occupancy, including the arrival or departure of residents, must be promptly reported, and failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a punishable offence.

Police have also encouraged members of the public to report information on suspicious premises or individuals through Public Safety Committees established within each police division.

Property owners have been strongly advised to verify the identity, background, and purpose of prospective tenants before entering into rental or lease agreements, as these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fraud and criminal misuse of properties.

The Sri Lanka Police said operations to detect and apprehend individuals involved in such illegal activities are continuing, and the public is urged to report information relating to local or foreign fraudsters, smugglers, criminals, or any unlawful and anti-social activities to emergency hotlines 119 or 118, or to the nearest police station without delay.