On 30 October 2026, Sri Lankan investigators began extracting data from the computer systems of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) to probe allegations of fraud and corruption, a move reported by Xinhua. The operation involves officers from the Walana Anti‑Corruption Unit and technical specialists from the University of Colombo School of Computing, Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT), GovTech Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Telecom. Investigators are examining the department’s digital records to identify possible irregularities and suspected fraudulent activities that have reportedly occurred over an extended period.
Investigators’ Operation
The data extraction effort is part of a wider investigation that seeks to uncover alleged corrupt practices within the department. The team’s work relies on the expertise of computing specialists from both governmental bodies and academic institutions, ensuring a technical approach to comb through the DMT’s extensive digital archives. While the latest findings are not yet public, authorities have confirmed that the probe is ongoing and has yet to identify any suspects directly linked to the operation.
Background and Context
Earlier this year, Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake had addressed Parliament, stating that findings by the Committee on Public Accounts and the Auditor General’s Department concerning alleged corruption at the DMT would be referred to the Attorney General’s Department and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. In March, four current and former DMT officials were remanded on allegations that included fraudulent vehicle registrations and the manipulation of computerized records. These actions underscored longstanding concerns about corruption within the department and set the stage for the current data probe.
According to Xinhua, authorities have not disclosed the results of the most recent data examination, nor have they identified any suspects linked to the operation. The probe follows a series of developments that have highlighted the need for a more thorough investigation into the department’s practices, as reported by local media on Friday, 30 October 2026. The investigation is taking place against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of public sector institutions in Sri Lanka, with anti‑corruption bodies playing a central role in safeguarding public interests.
While the scope of the data probe remains under wraps, the collaboration between the anti‑corruption unit and technical experts signals a coordinated effort to tackle corruption in a digitized environment. This approach aligns with broader initiatives by GovTech Sri Lanka and other governmental agencies to leverage technology in enhancing transparency and accountability across public institutions.
