TRC tasked with registration of SIM cards

In a bid to control crime and fraud using mobile phones, the Government has decided to instruct all service providers to register the owners of SIM cards with documentation and correct identification details.

The Cabinet this week decided to vest the authority of implementing this process in the Telecom Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka.

Observing that a large number of active SIM cards in operation issued by various mobile phone service providers had been issued without obtaining relevant documents, President Maithripala Sirisena, presenting a paper, said that systematic registration was essential to control various crimes and fraud perpetrated using mobile phones and ensure public security.

According to the proposal, the TRCSL has already made a request to relevant service providers to register SIM cards with a duly filled application form and photocopy of the National Identity Card of the owner.

Further to this, the Cabinet this week gave approval to the Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure Harin Fernando to issue an order under the Sri Lanka Telecommunications Act No. 25 of 1991 to assign TRCSL to lead the implementation of the proper registration of SIM card owners. (CD)