Tourists Encouraged to Visit Sri Lanka as Security Measures Intensify

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has extended an open invitation to tourists, encouraging them to visit the country without fear during the upcoming tourist season.

The Bureau emphasized that the Ministry of Defense has implemented robust measures to ensure the highest level of safety for visitors.

The Bureau assured that there are no threats to the mental well-being and safety of tourists currently in the country. 

This statement comes in response to a security advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy in Colombo yesterday, which warned of a potential attack targeting the popular tourist destination of Arugam Bay based on credible information.

In light of this serious threat, the Embassy has restricted its staff from traveling to the Arugam Bay area with immediate effect. The advisory also urged American citizens to avoid visiting the area until further notice.

Following the U.S. advisory, the Israeli National Security Council also issued a warning to Israeli nationals, advising them to avoid the eastern and southern coastal areas of Sri Lanka.

Acting Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasooriya, stated that security has been heightened at several locations frequented by foreigners. 

This decision was made after the Security Council, chaired by the President, convened multiple times to analyze intelligence reports received on the 7th of this month.

The Acting Inspector General confirmed that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure security following these intelligence reports.