Sri Lanka's Welfare Benefits Board has initiated legal proceedings against 14 government officials across multiple Divisional Secretariats for allegedly diverting Aswesuma welfare payments into personal bank accounts.

The Welfare Benefits Board has launched legal action targeting 14 government officials accused of misappropriating funds meant for the Aswesuma welfare programme. According to Board Chairman Nimal Kotawelagedara, a nationwide investigation uncovered evidence that officials at several Divisional Secretariat offices diverted welfare payments into their personal accounts.

Investigations spanning from 2023 onwards revealed irregularities and fraudulent practices in how welfare benefits were distributed at the Divisional Secretariat level. The Norwood Divisional Secretariat has come under particular scrutiny, with authorities identifying fraudulent fund transfers involving four officials at that location.

The Board Chairman emphasised that those found responsible will face strict legal and disciplinary consequences irrespective of their official standing or rank. Kotawelagedara also issued a broader warning to public officials across the country, cautioning against engaging in similar fraudulent activities and reiterating that violators would face severe action.

The Aswesuma scheme, a government welfare initiative, has been the subject of heightened scrutiny following the discovery of these alleged irregularities. The investigation represents an effort to safeguard the integrity of welfare programmes designed to support Sri Lanka's vulnerable populations.