A special awareness programme on the Proceeds of Crime Act, No. 5 of 2025, was conducted yesterday (06) at the Ministry of Defence, with the objective of educating security and legal leadership on the complexities of illicit wealth recovery.
Held under the guidance of Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), the programme focused on key statutory obligations relating to the disclosure of information and the legal consequences of failing to do so, in support of the national effort to dismantle organised financial crime, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Additional Solicitor General Air Commodore Sudarshana De Silva, PC, who also serves as the Judge Advocate of the Sri Lanka Air Force. Addressing senior officers of the Tri-Forces, legal professionals and senior civil officials, Air Commodore De Silva provided a comprehensive analysis of the legislation, which has been in force since June 01, 2025.
During his presentation, he highlighted the stringent disclosure requirements under the Act, explaining that any individual or official who becomes aware of suspected proceeds of crime is legally required to report such information to the relevant authorities. He further emphasised that willful blindness or failure to disclose such information constitutes a serious offence under the law and could result in severe legal penalties.
The programme underscored the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to ensuring that senior leadership within the Tri-Forces and the civil administration are fully conversant with the latest legal frameworks. By strengthening high-level legal literacy, the Ministry aims to enhance transparency and reinforce efforts to identify and disrupt illicit financial networks.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, during which participants examined the practical application of the Act in maintaining the highest standards of integrity and discipline within the country’s security and administrative structures.
The Additional Secretary (Administration), senior Tri-Forces officers, legal professionals, and senior officials from the civil and legal services were present at the programme.
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