The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has issued a public warning concerning a rise in fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating tax officials. These scams have been reported in various regions, including Colombo, Panadura, Negombo, Wennappuwa, and Minuwangoda, according to an official statement from the department.
The IRD emphasized that legitimate Inland Revenue Officers will only visit to advise taxpayers to make payments directly into designated bank accounts at the Bank of Ceylon or People’s Bank under the name of the Commissioner General of Inland Revenue. They will never collect cash or cheques in person.
“If you encounter anyone claiming to be a tax official and requesting cash or cheques, please do not comply and instead, report the incident to the nearest police station immediately,” the IRD advised. The department stressed that public cooperation is crucial in apprehending these fraudsters.
