Aug 22, Colombo: A trade union affiliated to Sri Lanka's health sector has accused Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena of abusing state vehicles.

The Public Services United Nurses Union (PSUNU) has alleged that close to 52 vehicles from the Health Ministry have been allocated to the Minister and his personal staff.

Head of the PSUNU, Ven. Muruththettuwe Ananda Thero has said the misuse of state vehicles amounted to the abuse of public property.

He has told the media that these vehicles frequently travel between Colombo and Polonnaruwa, which is Minister's constituency, and that the vehicles are maintained and fuelled by the Ministry.

The Thero insists on authorities to address the issue and take measures to stop the misuse of state vehicles.