Sri Lankan authorities have detained two individuals suspected of planning an attack targeting Israeli tourists at Arugam Bay, a popular surfing destination on the eastern coast. The arrests were made by the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID), following intelligence reports that warned of a possible attack aimed at foreign tourists, especially Israelis, between October 19 and 23.
The security measures have been intensified, with around 500 police officers and Special Task Force personnel deployed across the Arugam Bay and Pottuvil areas. There is specific concern about a potential attack at a building known to accommodate Israeli nationals.
Following the heightened alert, Israel’s national security council has classified Arugam Bay as a level four threat, the highest level, and urged Israeli citizens to leave the area immediately. It advised Israelis in Sri Lanka to take precautions, such as concealing any outward signs of Jewish identity and avoiding large public gatherings. Additionally, the US Embassy in Colombo issued a warning, advising American citizens to avoid the region due to credible intelligence about a potential attack.
Embassies from Russia, the UK, and other countries have updated their travel advisories, recommending vigilance and caution in light of the security threat. Authorities have established a tourist hotline (1997) to report suspicious activities, aiming to reassure the safety of all visitors amid global tensions linked to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The situation remains under close observation, with Sri Lankan security agencies coordinating efforts with international intelligence services to ensure the safety of foreign nationals.
