As of October 24, 2024, Sri Lankan authorities have detained three locals amid credible threats targeting Israeli tourists, prompting heightened security in popular areas and urgent travel warnings.
Concerns Rise as Sri Lanka Detains Three Amid Threats to Israeli Tourists
Concerns Rise as Sri Lanka Detains Three Amid Threats to Israeli Tourists
Sri Lanka intensifies security measures following credible threats against visitors from Israel, leading to arrests and travel advisories.
In a significant security development, Sri Lankan law enforcement has apprehended three individuals suspected of planning threats against Israeli tourists, officials confirmed on Thursday. These arrests follow serious travel advisories issued by both the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka and Israel's National Security Council, urging their citizens to refrain from visiting Arugam Bay—a noted surfing destination.
The detained individuals, all Sri Lankan nationals, are currently undergoing investigation, as stated by Vijitha Herath, a government spokesman, during a press briefing. "Further action will depend on the ongoing investigation's findings," Herath noted.
The warnings from the U.S. Embassy highlighted credible intelligence regarding potential attacks aimed at well-known tourist spots in the Arugam Bay region. As a precaution, the Embassy has restricted travel for its personnel to this area until further notice. Likewise, Israel's National Security Council has advised its citizens to exit Arugam Bay and avoid the southern and western coastal regions of Sri Lanka promptly, encompassing a caution against the public display of Israeli symbols, including Hebrew-scripted attire or religious icons.
Britain has also revised its travel advisory to reflect an increased terrorist risk, cautioning that attacks could indiscriminately target areas frequented by foreign visitors, including accommodations, tourist attractions, and places of worship.
In response to the escalating threats, Sri Lankan police have fortified security protocols across key tourist locations such as Colombo, Ella, and Weligama—areas notably frequented by Israeli travelers. A police spokesman indicated that increased vigilance is partly due to visiting tourists establishing temporary prayer venues for a Jewish holiday.
As local authorities work diligently to ensure tourist safety, the situation develops against a backdrop of international scrutiny and heightened travel concerns in the region.
