Fake inland revenue officer arrested for alleged tax scam

Colombo, July 2 (Daily Mirror) - A man accused of impersonating an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) official and defrauding taxpayers and institutions across Sri Lanka has been arrested following an investigation conducted by the Company Street Police and officials of the Inland Revenue Department.

According to the IRD, a complaint was lodged with the Company Street Police on June 5, 2026, by a Senior Commissioner after receiving reports that an individual identifying himself as "Jayatissa Bandara" had been using the department's name to solicit money from tax-paying institutions and individuals.

Following a comprehensive investigation carried out under the supervision of the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Company Street Police, the OIC of the Crime Branch, other police officers, and departmental officials, the suspect was arrested at his residence in Galgamuwa on June 27, 2026.

The suspect was subsequently produced before the Aluthgama Magistrate's Court on June 29, 2026.

The IRD said that the suspect had falsely claimed to be an employee of the department while carrying out the alleged fraudulent activities under the name "Jayatissa Bandara."

Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have received phone calls from the suspect or transferred money to him to immediately contact the OIC of the Crime Branch of the Company Street Police Station or the Department hotline on 011-2135000.

The department urged the media to publicize the incident to raise public awareness, assist in identifying additional victims, and help prevent similar scams in the future.

The statement was issued by Deputy Commissioner General N.M.A.K.B. Napana, Chairman of the Media Committee of the Inland Revenue Department.