Wednesday Jun 24, 2026
Wednesday Jun 24, 2026
Wednesday, 24 June 2026 00:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Government yesterday said approximately $ 6.9 million remitted by Sri Lankan workers in Israel has been suspended due to legal proceedings involving remittance service provider Global Remit, rejecting claims that the funds were lost as a result of a cyberattack.
Around 5,100 Sri Lankan workers have been affected by the suspension, Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra told Parliament.
Responding to concerns raised in Parliament, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra said claims that worker remittances had disappeared as a result of a hacker attack were “completely false”.
He explained that approximately $ 6.9 million in remittances had been suspended due to legal proceedings initiated by Israeli authorities against Global Remit.
According to the Deputy Minister, around 5,100 Sri Lankan workers have been affected by the suspension.
Hemachandra said the Government is engaged in discussions at both banking and diplomatic levels to resolve the matter and facilitate the release of the funds.
He added that alternative remittance channels have already been introduced to ensure Sri Lankan workers in Israel can continue sending money home without disruption.
The Deputy Minister also said the Government remains focused on strengthening the economy despite challenges arising from instability in the Middle East and climate-related pressures, including the effects of El Niño.
He further noted that ongoing tax reforms and the digitalisation of the tax system form part of broader efforts to improve state revenue collection, while measures are also being taken to reduce waste and corruption and direct public funds towards public benefit.
