Sri Lanka probing $2.5 million cyber heist with international assistance – PM

Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that investigations have been initiated into the theft of USD 2.5 million in funds from the Ministry of Finance by cybercriminals.

She made these remarks while addressing the media following a program held at the Malwathu Maha Viharaya in Kandy this morning (24).

During her address, the Prime Minister emphasized that comprehensive investigations are currently underway and that appropriate legal action will be taken against those responsible.

She further noted that Sri Lanka has received international assistance to support the investigative process and assured that the government is taking all necessary measures to address the incident thoroughly.

In particular, the Government of Australia has informed the Government of Sri Lanka of its willingness to support the investigative process, as stated by the Australian High Commissioner, she said.

The Prime Minister also commented on a reported no-confidence motion being organized against her by the opposition.

“They are preparing to present a no-confidence motion against me. I am awaiting its submission to Parliament, as it will provide an opportunity to respond to the allegations. Various claims are being made; however, the public must clearly understand the situation. An opposition is essential in a democratic system,” she said.

She further stated that the opposition plays a critical role in identifying government shortcomings and representing alternative political perspectives, adding that both the government and the public must consider whether the opposition is effectively fulfilling this responsibility.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister stated that the new education reforms will be introduced for Grade 6 in 2027, while necessary steps have already been initiated to develop Piriven education. She also noted that work is underway to formulate a national policy for higher education.

She made these remarks while paying respects to the Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Abhidana Mahanayake Thero of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siyamopali Maha Nikaya, following a peace walk that commenced near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy on April 24.

Speaking to the media afterwards, she said, “It is a matter of happiness for us as a country that the internationally recognized peace walk is being held in Sri Lanka. At the same time, world peace is a shared aspiration of all of us, and therefore I am pleased to have the opportunity to be associated with this occasion.”

While responding to questions raised by journalists, the Prime Minister further stated:

“The government is taking the necessary legal action regarding the financial fraud that has taken place. Investigations have already commenced in this regard. International assistance has also been offered for the investigations. In particular, the Government of Australia has informed us of its willingness to support the investigative process, as stated by the Australian High Commissioner.

A democratic country needs an opposition. However, the opposition still seems not to understand what the people expect from it. As a result, they continue attempting to inconvenience the government by raising baseless arguments. They are making false allegations against ministers. They even said they would bring a no-confidence motion against me. I am also waiting for the opportunity to present my facts.

We are continuing the education reform process. We are also working to formulate a national policy for higher education. In addition, a committee has been appointed regarding medical education to carry forward future activities.”