October 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s security forces have arrested two individuals suspected of plotting an attack on Israeli nationals, following heightened concerns about threats to foreign tourists in the country.
The arrests were made by the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID), with authorities increasing security in key areas frequented by tourists, particularly around Arugam Bay, a well-known surfing destination on the island’s eastern coast.
Police spokesman Deputy Inspector General Nihal Thalduwa confirmed that intelligence reports had pointed to a potential threat against Israeli tourists in the region.
“There is credible information suggesting a possible attack targeting Israelis at a specific location where they are staying,” Thalduwa stated.
In response to these reports, approximately 500 police officers and members of the Special Task Force have been deployed in Arugam Bay and Pottuvil, areas that are popular with Israeli visitors.
The bolstered security presence includes heightened surveillance and the establishment of checkpoints to ensure the safety of tourists.
As a result of the threat, Israel’s national security council has issued an urgent warning to its citizens to leave southern Sri Lanka, including the Arugam Bay area.
The region has been classified as a high-level security risk, with the council advising Israelis to take additional precautions, such as avoiding large public gatherings and concealing their Jewish identity while travelling.
Israeli authorities are said to be in close coordination with Sri Lanka’s security services, actively monitoring the evolving situation.
This security alert follows a similar advisory from the US Embassy in Colombo, which warned American citizens to avoid Arugam Bay due to credible reports of an imminent attack.
Other nations, including Russia and the UK, have echoed these warnings, urging their citizens to remain vigilant and to steer clear of large crowds or public events in potentially affected areas.
The Sri Lankan police have assured the public and foreign visitors that every possible measure is being taken to safeguard their safety.
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