Fraudsters reported collecting money using COVID – 19 Fund as cover

The Presidential Secretariat has received information on several instances of fraudsters collecting money using COVID – 19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund as cover, said President’s Media Division.

The Secretary to the President has requested the public to make their contributions to the Fund only through direct bank deposits, cheques or any other approved means, and not to donate money to any organizations or individuals.

The Secretary appeals to the public to inform such misdeeds to the nearest Police station. Further information in this regard can be obtained from K. B. Egodawele, the Director-General (Administration) through 011 2354479/ 0112 354354.

With direct contributions from the public, the COVID – 19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund reached Rs. 314.5 million as of today (02).

The Fund’s balance increased with the contributions of Rs 10 million each by the Telecom Engineers Benevolent Fund and the Ceylon Electricity Board Independent Engineers Association and Rs 50 million by the Cargills (Ceylon) PLC.

A special account had been opened at the Corporate Branch of the Bank of Ceylon under the account number of 85737373. Local, as well as foreign donors, have made their contributions to the Fund. Donations to COVID – 19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund have been exempted from taxes and foreign exchange regulations. Deposits can be made through cheques or telegraphic transfers.

The Government advises the entire population to observe a ‘health quarantine’ while the provision of daily needs for food, medicine, and other essentials services is being carried out according to the regulations and guidelines of health authorities and the Elections Commission.