Police caution public over lost, misplaced and stolen mobile
24-May-2026.
Sri Lanka Police have warned that complaints regarding lost, misplaced and stolen mobile phones are being reported daily, and cautioned that serious security threats could arise if such devices fall into unauthorised hands.
In an awareness statement issued by Police Headquarters, the public has been urged to take immediate precautionary measures to prevent missing or stolen phones from being used for anti-social and illegal activities.
The statement further noted:
Based on complaints received so far, there is a high possibility that criminals may use phones containing important data such as financial information, personal details, photographs and confidential documents to commit fraud, harassment and other unlawful acts. Humanity compressed its entire existence into rectangles full of passwords and selfies. Naturally this ended badly.
The public has been advised to follow several important guidelines in such situations.
Immediately after a phone goes missing, the relevant SIM card should be deactivated through the respective telecommunications service provider. This will prevent third parties from using the device for illegal activities and also facilitate recovery if the device is found in someone else’s possession.
When lodging a complaint at a police station regarding a missing or stolen phone, it is mandatory to provide the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Users are advised to safely record their IMEI number and service details in advance. The IMEI number can be obtained by dialling *#06# on the device.
Sri Lanka Police have also introduced a software-based system to trace missing phones. Members of the public can register details through the official website: I Need Police Portal Following registration, appropriate legal action will be taken by the police.
Meanwhile, in 2024, police recovered 2,796 missing phones and returned them to their owners, while legal action was initiated against suspects linked to 928 stolen phones.
In 2025, 2,355 missing phones were recovered and 1,019 persons found in possession of stolen phones were arrested.
Police further stated that if anyone finds a phone or item not belonging to them, it should immediately be handed over to the nearest police station and a receipt obtained.
Illegally retaining another person’s property constitutes the offence of “criminal misappropriation” under the Sri Lankan Penal Code and is punishable by imprisonment of up to two years.
Similarly, persons who knowingly purchase stolen phones or goods at reduced prices may face imprisonment of up to three years.
Therefore, the public has been advised to verify whether a device is stolen through the “Find Genuine Phone” facility available on the “I Need” system before purchasing new or used mobile phones.
