Minister Sunil Handuneththi has lodged a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) regarding a group of individuals impersonating him to solicit funds for fraudulent community service projects.
The Minister revealed that his friends and associates in Japan, South Korea, and the UK had been contacted through WhatsApp by scammers, using his likeness and voice to deceive them.
In a statement to the media, Handuneththi explained that the scammers initiate unclear video calls lasting about 16 seconds, before directing their victims to send money to various bank accounts. "They are fearlessly using my image, voice, and technology to deceive people," the Minister said, urging Sri Lankan expatriates not to contribute to these fraudulent schemes.
Handuneththi emphasized that neither he nor the government solicits funds in this manner. "If we seek funds, it is only through responsible organizations," he clarified.
Additionally, the Minister disclosed that his signature, official Parliament letterhead, and seal had been forged to promote a fake Zoom discussion scheduled for January 5, 2025. The scammers have used these forged documents to further legitimize their fraudulent activities.
The Minister has called on the CID to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and to take legal action against those responsible. He also urged the public to report any information they may have or share details if they have been victims of the scam. "If anyone has donated funds to these fraudulent schemes, we encourage them to come forward and share their information so it can be included in the investigation," Handuneththi added.
The CID has not yet provided a statement but is expected to launch a formal probe into the matter. Meanwhile, Handuneththi's appeal for assistance highlights the ongoing need for vigilance against such scams, particularly targeting expatriates.
