Opposition Leader calls for strict action against tax stamp racketeers

Speaking in parliament last week, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, stated Excise Officials responsible for the fake tax stamp racket must be charged appropriately under the penal code, and not be allowed to slip away with a slap on the wrist.

He noted the incident cannot be swept under the carpet as a petty crime, and expressed concern that steps were underfoot to change tax stamps affixed to evidence stored at the Rajagiriya office of the Excise Department. Premadasa stated there are attempts to release the culprits through a minor technical offence, despite the grave nature of the crime that has cost the government millions in revenue.

Responding to the Opposition Leader, State Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, said that those accused would not be allowed to escape, and appropriate action would be taken upon investigation.

The Parliamentary Committee on Ways and Means chaired by Patali Champika Ranawaka has recommended that the existing contract for tax stamps be cancelled and fresh applications called from suppliers of global repute. They added that the existing contract was awarded in 2018, and despite security claims fake stickers had pervaded the market from inception.