A group of Chinese and Vietnamese nationals involved in online financial scams was arrested yesterday (March 24) at a residence in Godakanda, within the Poddala Police Division, the Galle DIG’s office reported.

A total of 17 persons were arrested, including 05 females.

Authorities seized multiple items, including a desktop computer, a laptop, and 84 mobile phones, in the possession of these suspects.

The suspects reportedly committed the scam operations conducted from a rented villa.

The raid was conducted following a tip-off received by the Boossa Army Intelligence Unit, with the operation carried out in coordination with Galle Police officers.

The suspects have been handed over to the Poddala Police for further investigations.

A 46-year-old resident of Gonapola was arrested for possessing fuel without a licence in the Moragahahena area, authorities reported.

The raid was conducted by the Walana Anti-Corruption Strike Force Unit based on a tip-off.

During the operation, police seized 6,600 litres of diesel stored in a fuel bowser belonging to a Panadura-based fuel station, parked on the suspect’s property.

In addition, officers also discovered a barrel containing 152 litres of diesel and another with 120 litres of petrol hidden inside the house.

International reports indicate a notable drop in global oil prices.

Accordingly, the WTI crude oil price per barrel has dropped to USD 88.27, marking a 4.42% decline.

Meanwhile, Brent crude has fallen to USD 98.84 per barrel, a 5.41% decrease.

The price of Murban crude, the preferred oil used in Sri Lanka, is now USD 119.88 per barrel, representing an 11.31% reduction compared to the previous rate, international media reports.