By: Isuru Parakrama
November 12, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested the U.S. Embassy to withdraw a security alert advising American citizens to avoid Arugam Bay due to a potential threat, a ministry spokesperson confirmed yesterday (11).
The alert, issued on October 23, urged U.S. nationals to steer clear of the popular tourist destination, citing credible intelligence of an attack targeting tourist areas.
The Embassy also restricted travel for its own staff to Arugam Bay until further notice.
Following the U.S. announcement, Israel’s National Security Council issued a similar warning for Israeli nationals, advising them to vacate certain tourist areas in southern Sri Lanka, including Arugam Bay and beaches along the southern and western coasts.
This alert, based on reports of a potential terrorist threat, prompted widespread concern among international visitors and tourism stakeholders.
Heightened security efforts have also led to the arrest of six individuals in connection with potential security risks.
According to a spokesperson, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has since appealed to the U.S. Embassy to reconsider and remove the advisory, following these proactive steps to ensure safety.
During a recent television programme, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake confirmed that the government had received intel on a potential attack two weeks prior to the U.S.’ announcement and actions had already been taken since to heighten security in the area, despite the move not being accounted for public record then.
To further assess the security landscape, Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha visited the Eastern Province on November 10, concentrating on Arugam Bay.
During his visit, the Defence Secretary met with senior local military and police officials for a detailed briefing on current security protocols.
He instructed officials on targeted measures to strengthen protection in Arugam Bay and other high-traffic tourist spots across Sri Lanka.
When questioned about cooperation between the Sri Lankan government and U.S. authorities, a U.S. Embassy spokesperson confirmed close collaboration on security matters, underscoring the joint commitment to public safety and the wellbeing of tourists.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry remains hopeful that recent security efforts will provide reassurance to international visitors and lead to a swift lifting of travel restrictions on Arugam Bay, restoring confidence in one of Sri Lanka’s prime tourist destinations.
