Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the assault and robbery of a Spanish tourist traveling on the Udarata Menike train from Colombo Fort to Badulla. The incident occurred on December 4 near Watawala, when the victim, 36-year-old Alpa Maria, was filming scenic views from the train’s doorway using her mobile phone.
At around 1:20 p.m., two men standing on the railway track attacked Maria with a stick, striking her head and causing injuries. They then snatched her mobile phone, valued at Rs. 500,000, and fled. Despite the injuries, Maria managed to report the incident to the train guard, who relayed the information to the Watawala railway station master, Janaka Fernando. The station master promptly informed the Watawala Police.
The police, led by Inspector Chandana Gamage, immediately launched an investigation. On the night of December 4, officers patrolling the Rozella area in Watawala encountered two youths in possession of a high-value mobile phone. When questioned, the suspects, aged 23 and 26, from Rozella and Wigton Estates, failed to verify ownership of the device. Further interrogation revealed that the phone was stolen from the tourist during the attack.
Maria, who was en route to Ella, was contacted by the police and invited to the Watawala Police Station on December 5. There, she identified and recovered her phone. Expressing her gratitude, Maria commended the Sri Lankan police for their swift and effective action. “Even in my home country, police would not have acted so quickly and efficiently,” she remarked.
The suspects were presented before the Hatton Magistrate’s Court and remanded until December 18 pending further investigations.
This incident has raised concerns about tourist safety along Sri Lanka’s picturesque yet vulnerable train routes. It also highlights the capability of local law enforcement to respond quickly to crimes, ensuring justice for victims and restoring confidence in Sri Lanka as a safe travel destination.
Police emphasized the importance of vigilance for tourists and assured continued efforts to ensure their safety. Inspector Gamage noted that maintaining a safe environment for visitors is a priority, especially as the country seeks to rebuild its tourism industry.
