Minister of Industries, Sunil Handunneththi, has revealed that an individual impersonating him is running a racket to collect money from Sri Lankans living abroad.

He disclosed this information to the media after lodging a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today (24).

According to the Minister, the impostor uses his name and image to solicit donations via WhatsApp groups in countries like Japan, South Korea, and England. 'In the first few seconds, a video call is made, where the caller, claiming to be me, speaks indistinctly and requests donations for alleged medical reasons,' Handunneththi stated. The fraudster also provides multiple bank account details for these transactions.

The Minister emphasized that neither he nor any parliamentarians would seek donations in this manner, and any legitimate requests would come through authorized organizations. He wa ed the public to refrain from making payments to such fraudulent appeals.

The racket reportedly extends to the misuse of Handunneththi's signature, letterhead, and images to promote a fictitious Zoom meeting scheduled for January 5th, targeting Sri Lankans abroad. A specific phone number, 0743 86 87 28, has been associated with the scheme.

'This is a serious crime, and the law must take its course,' Handunneththi remarked, urging Sri Lankans to remain vigilant. The CID has been provided with all available information to investigate and take appropriate action.