The sexual exploitation of children and women via the Internet is on the rise, with 28 children already falling prey to cybercriminals so far this year, police have warned.
Police spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler said at a press briefing in Colombo on Saturday that all forms of sexual abuse and assaults against children were facilitated, via mobile phones. In addition to the 28 children, 118 women had become victims of online sex offenders in 2025.
“A total of 114 suspects have been arrested this year,” the ASP added.
The Police Spokesperson said 206 children had been taken into police custody in 2025 in connection with drug-related incidents.ASP Wootler urged the public to remain vigilant and report any online threats or abuse against children or women immediately to the police emergency hotline at 119 or 118.
by Pradeep Prasanna Samarakoon 