Energy Minister Kumara involved in 'Ditwa' cyclone aid racket

The Ministry of Power has issued a special warning to the public regarding an organized racket collecting money and aid from the public, claiming it is for schools affected by the 'Ditwa' cyclone. Information has been revealed to the Ministry that this fraudulent scheme is operating through a falsely created WhatsApp account, using a photograph of the Minister of Power, Engineer Kumara Jayakody, for the said fraudulent act.

It is stated in a press release issued by the Minister's Media Secretary, Mr. Shan Mohamed, that a formal complaint has already been lodged with the Sri Lanka Police regarding this matter. The statement strongly emphasizes that the Minister has never, at any time, requested financial or any other form of assistance from the public, whether in relation to the Ditwa cyclone or based on any other matter.

Therefore, the Ministry of Power further requests the public not to fall victim to such fraudulent phone calls or any other false propaganda received using the Minister's name or photograph, and to refrain from giving money to such fraudsters.