Business

Dozens of websites and mobile applications now openly display hundreds of advertisements daily - These services often involve women aged 18 to 27 and some underage girls - To ease the economic hardships, more women turn to the sex industry - Several tourists on tourist visas are engaging in such activities while holidaying in Sri Lanka

- Police have intensified attention to address the rapid rise of online prostitution platforms, amid growing concerns over cyber fraud, exploitation, and the involvement of vulnerable individuals, including minors. It was revealed that several tourists on tourist visas are engaging in such activities, further raising alarm, the Daily Mirror learns. It is learnt that dozens of websites and mobile applications now openly display hundreds of advertisements daily, offering various sex services including live streams, escort services, and companionship at varying rates. Some listings include services such as “Thai full body massage” priced at around Rs. 10,000, live video sessions ranging from Rs. 1,000 for 10 minutes to Rs. 10,000 for 30 minutes, and in-person encounters advertised between Rs. 8,000 and Rs. 30,000 depending on the duration. It was revealed that these platforms have made the sex trade more accessible while complicating regulatory oversight. Police said that unlike traditional brothels or spas, online services allow providers to operate discreetly, using encrypted messaging apps such as WhatsApp and anonymous digital payment methods to connect with clients. Some operations have been linked to fraud, with victims transferring funds for services that never materialize. Police said that fear of public exposure or social stigma often prevents victims from filing formal complaints, making legal action difficult. This trend follows previous high profile crackdowns. In 2021, Sri Lanka Police dismantled a child sex racket tied to online platforms, arresting 32 individuals, including website operators, men accused of exploiting minors, a former Maldives state minister for finance, and several local politicians. It was revealed that economic pressures have driven many women toward online prostitution. With soaring living costs and shrinking job opportunities, thousands reportedly turn to the digital sex trade as a means of survival, with some earning significant income from these services. Police also revealed that foreign nationals on tourist visas have also been involved in online escort activities. Among recent cases, a young married couple was arrested in Horana for allegedly distributing live sex videos online targeting viewers aged 16–22. The 23-year-old female and 25-year-old male suspects were produced in court and granted bail. In the wake of this rising trend, Police Spokesman ASP F. U. Wootler said police remain vigilant, stating that these services often involve women aged 18 to 27 and some underage girls, offering paid companionship through social media and messaging apps. He said that the police are continuing strict measures to curb such activities and protect vulnerable individuals. Police said that intercourse with anyone under 18 is considered statutory rape under Sri Lankan law, carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years. Sri Lanka enacted the Online Safety Act in January 2024. This legislation aims to regulate online content and address issues such as online harassment and abuse. It establishes an Online Safety Commission with the authority to remove content and prosecute individuals involved in prohibited online activities.