NALIKA RANASINGHE FROM LITTLEPORT ON THE RUN AFTER SEXUAL MESSAGE SCAM

A man named Nalika Ranasinghe, aged 55, who engaged in a disturbing online predator activity, is now at large after being sentenced in his absence to six and a half years in prison. The authorities have issued a stark warning, emphasizing that Ranasinghe poses a significant threat to children in the community. The case began in February 2023 when Ranasinghe initiated contact with what he believed was a 14-year-old girl, but in reality, the account was operated by an online child protection group designed to catch predators.

According to Detective Sergeant Mike Paget, Ranasinghe was notably persistent in his attempts to pursue sexual gratification from the girl, despite her repeated efforts to reject his advances. The detective emphasized the danger Ranasinghe represents, stating, “Ranasinghe was extremely persistent in his pursuit of sexual gratification from this ‘child,’ who continually tried to reject his advances. He poses a significant risk to children, which is reflected in the sentence, and we are keen to arrest him as soon as possible so he goes to prison. I would urge anyone who knows of his whereabouts to contact police straight away.”

Throughout their conversations, Ranasinghe was told explicitly that the girl was only 14 years old. Nevertheless, he continued to steer the dialogue into sexual territory, encouraging her to perform inappropriate acts both alone and with her 12-year-old cousin. The predator even made explicit threats, telling her, “I will touch you one day if you let me,” indicating his intent to meet her in person.

After exchanging over 1,200 messages, the online child protection group confronted Ranasinghe at his residence in Littleport, Ely, on February 14, 2023. Following this confrontation, they contacted the police, which led to his immediate arrest. During questioning, Ranasinghe admitted to sending the messages but claimed he believed he was communicating with an adult, not a minor.

He was subsequently charged and found guilty of two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, as well as two counts of attempting to cause a child to engage in sexual activity. Ranasinghe, who resides at The Hythe in Littleport, was released on bail pending sentencing. However, he failed to appear at his court hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on March 20. As a result, he was sentenced in his absence to six years and six months in prison, reflecting the severity of his actions and the danger he poses to the community.