Sri Lankan President asks for Myanmar's help to free nationals held by criminal gangs

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday (25) sought Myanmar’s assistance in securing the release of Sri Lankans held by criminal gangs in Myanmar, according to a statement from the President’s Media Division (PMD).

The president made the call during a meeting with Myanmar Ambassador Malar Than Htaik at the Presidential Secretariat, the PMD said.

A detailed discussion took place between President Dissanayake and the Ambassador, focusing on the release of Sri Lankans forcibly held in cybercrime camps in Myanmar, the PMD added.

President Dissanayake also briefed the Ambassador on the security situation in Sri Lanka and assured that steps to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents have been strengthened.

He emphasized that Sri Lanka is addressing the concerns expressed in recent travel advisories to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Furthermore, he reiterated the government’s commitment to continued improvements in security measures to protect the well-being of international visitors and Sri Lankan citizens alike.

Currently, several dozen Sri Lankans are reportedly being held in criminal gang camps in Myanmar.