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Scam centres are relocating. One new location? Sri Lanka

Loopholes, connectivity and geopolitics make it an attractive new base.

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Some syndicates have discovered Sri Lanka as it confers practical advantages for their scam work. However, the Sri Lankan government has moved to confront the problem.

Some syndicates have discovered Sri Lanka as it confers practical advantages for their scam work. However, the Sri Lankan government has moved to confront the problem.

PHOTO: REUTERS

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A few weeks ago, when a well-connected Sri Lankan friend arrived from Colombo bearing news that scam centres seemed to be a growth industry in the country, I reacted with incredulity.

How could this historic haven that drew ancient Arab and Persian traders riding the monsoon winds for its fragrant spices ever find itself connected to “pig butchering” and other forms of modern online scams?

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