November 13, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested that the United States Embassy in Colombo lift its current travel advisory, which advises US citizens against visiting the popular tourist zone of Arugam Bay. This advisory, issued on October 23, cited reliable intelligence indicating a possible attack targeting tourist areas, prompting other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Israel, to issue similar warnings.
In response, Sri Lanka’s Police and Public Security Ministry stated that comprehensive security measures have been in place since October 7, focusing on tourist areas, including the coastline, with additional efforts to ensure the safety of foreign nationals, particularly Israeli citizens. Heightened security operations have already resulted in the arrest of six suspects tied to potential threats, and investigations are ongoing.
Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha visited the Eastern Province, specifically assessing the security situation in Arugam Bay on Sunday (10). He affirmed that the area’s security has been strengthened to protect both local and international visitors, underscoring Sri Lanka’s commitment to safe tourism.
