Saturday Aug 08, 2026
Saturday Aug 08, 2026
Saturday, 8 August 2026 01:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
TRCSL directs all telecom operators to prevent access from within Sri Lanka
The Government has moved to block access to 122 unauthorised online gambling and betting websites with immediate effect, widening regulatory action against unlicensed operators targeting users in Sri Lanka. This is a sharp increase from 24 blocked earlier this week.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority, which operates under the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry, has taken action under the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025 against the 122 websites for providing online gambling and betting services without the required licences.
Accordingly, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL), under the Digital Economy Ministry, has instructed all telecommunications service providers to prevent access to the identified websites from within Sri Lanka.
The Finance Ministry said operating or promoting online gambling services without valid licences required under Sections 15, 16 and 18 of the Act constitutes an offence and illegal activity under Section 44.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority also urged the public to refrain from engaging in or investing money through unauthorised online gambling platforms operating outside Sri Lanka’s legal framework.
The 122 websites identified for immediate restriction include multiple domains associated with 1xBet, Melbet, Betway, Unibet, Bet365, 1Win, Stake, Mostbet, Parimatch, Betwinner and other online betting platforms. The full list is contained in the Finance Ministry notice.
