The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has received credible information regarding a fraudulent foreign employment scheme being conducted through social media platforms, namely YouTube and Facebook. According to reports, an individual who previously worked in Dubai is misleading the public by claiming to provide employment opportunities in Dubai. This person has collected video statements from Sri Lankan workers in Dubai—who may have arrived through legitimate means—and has fraudulently edited these videos to support false employment claims. The edited videos are then shared online to gain credibility and deceive unsuspecting individuals.
Following the circulation of such deceptive content, the SLBFE’s Special Investigation Division has launched a thorough investigation into the racket. Several victims have already lodged complaints with the Bureau, having been defrauded of money under the pretense of securing overseas employment. The matter has been reported to the courts, and investigations are currently ongoing.
The Bureau emphasizes that only licensed foreign employment agents are authorized to collect fees for employment opportunities abroad. Furthermore, all employment-related advertisements must be approved by the SLBFE. Any attempt to solicit money or advertise employment without proper authorization constitutes a punishable offense under the Foreign Employment Bureau Act.
The SLBFE strongly urges the public not to trust unofficial advertisements or individuals on social media who offer foreign employment without proper verification. The public is encouraged to report such incidents or suspicious individuals directly to the Bureau.
Contact for Reporting:
Hotline: 1989
Special Investigation Division: 011-2864123
