In the wake of the US$2.5 million cyber theft at Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Finance, discussions have emerged about possible assistance from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in supporting the investigation.
In response to media queries, the United States said it values its law enforcement partnership with Sri Lanka and is willing to consider official requests for assistance submitted through proper diplomatic and law enforcement channels.
A spokesperson for the US Embassy said that the United States takes seriously the integrity of international financial transactions involving US government entities.
The spokesperson further reiterated that while Washington is prepared to consider formal requests for cooperation, it does not comment on ongoing investigations or details of law enforcement collaboration.
The cyberattack reportedly resulted in the loss of US$2.5 million, which was intended for debt repayment to Australia, after criminals breached a government computer system.
In a separate incident, Sri Lanka also lost US$625,000 linked to a payment process involving the Department of Posts and the United States Postal Service (USPS), which is now under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Sri Lanka has previously worked with the FBI in major investigations, including the Easter Sunday attacks, where US officials provided technical assistance and submitted findings to support local inquiries.
