Investigators probing alleged fraud involving Aswesuma welfare payments at the Norwood Divisional Secretariat believe losses could approach Rs. 30 million, potentially making it the largest such fraud detected in Sri Lanka to date, the Sunday Observer reported.

The investigation has also uncovered allegations that State employees obtained welfare payments intended for low-income families using the details of deceased elderly persons.

According to the Sunday Observer, around 100 families are believed to have been affected, while 20 State employees have so far been identified as suspected of involvement in alleged fraud at the Norwood and Talawakelle Divisional Secretariats.

The suspected loss at Norwood is estimated at nearly Rs. 30 million, while around Rs. 2 million has been identified in connection with Talawakelle.

The Welfare Benefits Board’s Audit Division has been examining the Norwood case for more than two months, with its final report yet to be submitted.

Information obtained under the Right to Information Act reportedly shows that 18 State employees linked to the Norwood case had been identified and action taken against them. Ten, including four employees attached to the Norwood Divisional Secretariat and six teachers, have been dismissed.

Two female State employees were also arrested under the Public Property Act and have remained in remand custody for more than 50 days, according to the report. (Newswire)

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