In a recent statement in Parliament, Chief Government Whip and Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa revealed that the Ministry of Health is currently investigating potential fraud related to the purchase of rapid antigen test kits during the COVID-19 pandemic. This announcement came in response to an oral question raised by MP Rauff Hakeem.
The total expenditure on COVID-related medical supplies amounted to Rs. 3.2 billion, including Rs. 2.2 billion spent on purchasing rapid antigen test kits. Alarmingly, it was revealed that these test kits were procured from a company, Divasa Pharma Ltd, which was not registered with the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), raising concerns about the legitimacy of the transaction.
The government also allocated Rs. 3.2 billion for PCR kits, bringing the total expenditure on PCR and rapid antigen test kits to Rs. 6.4 billion. Dr. Jayatissa clarified that 26 companies were involved in the procurement of test kits, with PCR and rapid antigen test kits being sourced from seven companies. Among them, George Steuart & Company Ltd provided both PCR and rapid antigen test kits.
The revelation of the involvement of an unregistered company in the supply of crucial COVID-19 test kits has prompted further scrutiny and investigation. The Health Ministry has assured the public that any fraudulent activities will be thoroughly examined.
