The week was rocked by warnings of potential attacks targeting foreign nationals in Sri Lanka’s tourist hotspots.
Police arrested three suspects over possible threats against tourists, mainly from Israel, officials said on Thursday (24).
The arrests came a day after several foreign Embassies warned their citizens of potential terror attacks targeting tourists.
The Israel National Security Council elevated its travel advisory to the highest level (Level 4) and warned its citizens to immediately leave Arugam Bay and the South and West coastal areas while avoiding public displays of anything that could be identified as Israeli, including clothing with Hebrew writing or Jewish religious symbols, and to avoid gathering in groups.
Credible information
The US Embassy said it received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area. Due to the serious risk posed by this threat, the Embassy imposed a travel restriction on Embassy personnel for Arugam Bay effective immediately until further notice.
The Russian Embassy advised its citizens to exercise caution and avoid large gatherings following an official statement from the Sri Lanka Police regarding potential threats of attacks targeting foreign tourists in Arugam Bay.
Police stepped up security measures in Colombo, as well as in Ella and Weligama, popular destinations for Israeli tourists, particularly around Chabad houses which are frequented by Jewish travellers for religious purposes. Police spokesman SSP Nihal Talduwa said that one of the reasons for the heightened security was due to a Jewish holiday.
The Jewish High Holidays began in the first week of October with Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) followed by Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Sukkot (Festival of Tabernacles) and Simchat Torah.
Dedicated hotline
Police also launched a dedicated hotline for Israeli nationals who may need security assistance.
A media release from the Police Media Unit stated, “If an Israeli feels the need to ensure his/her personal security, he/she may directly contact the telephone number and get the necessary assistance.” Israeli tourists can now reach the DIG Tourist Range on 071-8592651 for any support or information.
Tourists facing any security concerns can also contact the authorities via the emergency hotline 1997.
According to sources, one suspect was a 30-year-old dual citizen of the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The dual national had been previously apprehended in November 2015 over the death of a Maldivian at Tumbovila Bridge, Sri Lanka. In February 2020, he was arrested with 4 kgs of drugs in the Dehiwala.
The second suspect was reportedly based in Iraq while the other is a Jaffna resident. They had allegedly been offered Rs. 5 million each for their involvement. Indian intelligence agencies have provided the Sri Lankan authorities with all relevant information, including the names of those involved.
According to the information, the attack was planned as and act of revenge for the assassination of Hezbollah leaders by Israel in recent days.
The suspects are currently held by the Terrorism Investigation Division under the Prevention of Terror Act for further questioning.
In the meantime, the Government is making progress to ease travel concerns with efforts to address security measures, as discussions continue with foreign Embassies on lifting travel advisories, Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath said. “We have taken action to strengthen security. If required, we will do more in the future,” he added.
Minister Herath said that the Police as well as the Tri-Forces have taken steps for tourists to travel freely. He anticipated that countries currently imposing travel advisories would withdraw them soon, adding, “We will restore normalcy in a few days, for the advisories issued by the United States and other countries to be lifted.”
Reassuring travellers, Minister Herath highlighted that recent tourist arrivals, including Israeli visitors, had experienced “no issues” while enjoying their travels around the island. To bolster safety, special police security has been deployed across key tourist areas, including Arugam Bay, Ella and Weligama.
Minister Herath said, “All possible security measures have been taken to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists.”
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has invited tourists to visit the country without hesitation, assuring robust security measures are in place for the upcoming season. A spokesman for the Bureau said that the Ministry of Defence is safeguarding tourists’ safety and well-being.
Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, said that security has been bolstered at tourist hotspots and added that the President-led Security Council convened multiple times to review recent intelligence reports and that all security measures are in place.
Addressing an election rally in Puttalam, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reiterated the Government’s commitment for public safety, adding that it had acted promptly on intelligence about potential threats to Sri Lanka. He said that security was strengthened in key areas and investigations were launched without public announcements, as the Government’s duty is to act on intelligence rather than hold press conferences.
“A tense situation has erupted globally, impacting Sri Lanka. We immediately reinforced security based on intelligence reports. Our responsibility is to prevent any attacks and ensure citizens’ safety,” he said.
Brave troops
Geroge Anthony, a tour guide said, “Many foreigners like to visit Sri Lanka, attracted by its scenic beauty, climate and hospitality. I worked in Israel for 15 years. I have personally experienced the Israeli lifestyle and generosity and can vouch that they are a peaceful and fun-loving people. Amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, there are many who oppose Israel and this has been felt in Sri Lanka. At present, Israelis who travel to Sri Lanka are those who want to surf and recreate. They chose Sri Lanka because they like the experience here. There is concerning news of plans to target Israelis.
As tour operators we are certain that the Government and our brave troops are doing their best to safeguard Israelis and other foreign visitors. We warmly welcome all who visit Sri Lanka and guarantee this is a safe country that anyone can travel freely. I condemn the fake news being spread by certain political elements trying to discredit Sri Lanka and destroy our livelihood. The issues in the Middle East will be resolved by relevant parties, and extremists who spread false news will be dealt with accordingly by the Government”.
In response to emerging security concerns, the Government has taken swift, coordinated action to ensure the safety of tourists, while maintaining peace within popular travel destinations. With enhanced security, Government assurances, and proactive cooperation with foreign Embassies, officials are optimistic that travel advisories will soon be lifted, for tourists to enjoy the island’s beauty and hospitality safely.
Pix by Ampara Corr. Wasantha Chandrapala
This post was originally published on here
