March 25, Colombo (LNW): The Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) has directed officials from the Ministry of Finance to promptly escalate the matter of the importation of 102 containers of spoiled fish into the country to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), deeming it potentially criminal in nature.
During a recent session chaired by MP Lasantha Alagiyawanna, COPA scrutinized the details disclosed by an audit inquiry regarding the arrival of a vessel, originating from Seychelles and en route to Thailand, at the port of Colombo with spoiled fish containers.
Auditor-General W.P.C. Wickramaratne highlighted that despite provisions in the Customs Ordinance prohibiting the importation of unfit items for consumption, including spoiled fish, the decision was made to unload these containers in Sri Lanka.
The COPA session revealed discrepancies in the import process, with discussions highlighting fraudulent practices, including the presentation of non-imported containers as imports. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the date discrepancies on invoices, indicating potential irregularities.
The Import and Export Control General informed COPA that permission was granted for the importation of the fish for organic fertilizer production, based on recommendations from the Central Environment Authority and in compliance with relevant regulations.
Of the 102 containers, four were destroyed, 43 used for fertilizer production, 40 re-exported, and 15 remained in Sri Lanka. Physical inspections in July 2023 revealed the remaining containers were emitting odors of rotten fish, prompting further concerns.
The COPA chair expressed dismay over delays in appointing a committee to investigate the incident and criticized perceived favorable treatment by customs officials.
State Ministers and Members of Parliament, along with officials from various government departments and law enforcement agencies, attended the COPA session to address the matter.
