The Sri Lanka Police has officially inaugurated the Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division (PCID) today (20), marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to combat financial crimes.
The unit, located in the old Police Headquarters building, was declared open under the patronage of Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala.
The PCID has been established in accordance with the provisions of the Proceeds of Crime Act No. 05 of 2025 to investigate the illegal acquisition of funds, property, and assets.
A Deputy Director General has been appointed to head the division, which will function under the leadership of a Director General. Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG) Asanka Karawita has been appointed as the Director General for a three-year term, subject to the approval of the National Police Commission.
SDIG Karawita currently also serves as the Senior DIG of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID).
Under the new Act, the PCID is legally mandated to cooperate with investigations involving 34 state institutions. It is also empowered to investigate any form of asset acquisition, including non-criminal cases, and may file civil cases where necessary.
In addition, the division can freeze or seize illegally acquired property for up to 30 days, and the public may submit complaints directly to the PCID.
