• Focus on possible internal involvement

Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said that investigations into the alleged diversion of USD ($) 2.5 million belonging to the Treasury are currently underway, with efforts focused on determining whether any officials were intentionally involved, or, if not, on strengthening systems to prevent a recurrence.

He also confirmed that an internal investigation is being conducted by the Finance Ministry alongside the ongoing probe.

The Minister made these remarks while attending the National Operation to Eradicate Toxic Substances programme held at the Kalutara District Secretariat.

“All investigations are underway. An internal investigation is also being carried out by the Ministry of Finance. The complaint made to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) last February is also being investigated,” he said.

He added that authorities are attempting to determine whether one or more officials were deliberately involved in the incident. “We want to find out whether any official or several officials were intentionally involved. If not, our aim is to establish a strong mechanism to prevent such incidents in the future. We are working on both aspects,” he said.