The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) has launched an investigation into the alleged illegal transfer of foreign currency worth Rs. 24.85 billion out of Sri Lanka, following a complaint lodged at Police Headquarters.
The investigation, conducted on the instructions of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), centres on allegations that 89 companies registered in Sri Lanka transferred foreign currency overseas through telegraphic transfers while claiming the payments were for the import of goods.
According to investigators, the goods declared in the transactions were not actually brought into the country. Authorities are examining the transactions to determine whether foreign currency was transferred out of Sri Lanka under false import declarations.
As part of the investigation, police arrested a 35-year-old man in the Wellampitiya area on September 22, 2026. He is alleged to have aided and abetted the transfer of foreign currency reserves amounting to Rs. 24.85 billion through five of the 89 companies identified in the investigation.
The suspect is a resident of Dam Street, Colombo 12.
The FCID is continuing its investigation under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
