Samurdhi Bank, which is under the purview of the Samurdhi Department, is not subject to state audit, and the Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) recently discussed this issue when a group of Samurdhi officials appeared before it. According to a statement issued by Director Legislative Services and Acting Director Communication, the Office of the Attorney General, too, has been consulted in this regard.

However, both the COPA and the Office of the Auditor General have agreed that Samurdhi Bank should be audited.

The COPA has directed the relevant authorities to take necessary action expeditiously.

State Minister Alagiyawanna told The Island that in his capacity as COPE Chairman, he had ordered that Samurdhi Bank be audited by the Auditor General’s Department.

The COPA also inquired into major financial fraud perpetrated by those at the Damana Divisional Secretariat when providing fishing nets to needy families.

Officials assured the COPA that an investigation was underway. COPA Chairman State Minister Alagiyawanna said that he would direct the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration to conduct an investigation at the level of the Ministry of Public Administration regarding the concerned Samurdhi officials as well as the Divisional Secretary. (SF)