CID Records Statements from Seven Officials Over $2.5 Million Cyber Theft at Finance Ministry

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has recorded statements from seven officials regarding the theft of approximately $2.5 million from the computer system of the Department of External Resources under the Ministry of Finance.

Police stated that the statements were obtained from seven officials representing both the State Debt Management Office of the General Treasury and the Department of External Resources.

Accordingly, Computers used by the officials have been taken into CID custody for further forensic analysis.

Investigators are seeking specialized assistance from the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) to conduct the probe.

Meanwhile, The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has agreed to support the investigation.

Police further noted that this collaboration is facilitated by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) last year. 

Data required for the investigation is already being exchanged with the Australian authorities to track the cybercriminals and the stolen funds.