A Jordanian security officer has been killed in an attack outside the Sri Lankan Embassy in Amman, with authorities classifying the incident as an act of terrorism.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka confirmed that the attack occurred at approximately 12.20 p.m. on Thursday (05), when an assailant armed with a sharp object attacked a security officer stationed near the Embassy building.
The officer, identified as Corporal Jawad Ali Khalaf Al-Salaita, died while performing his official duties.
According to Jordan’s Public Security Directorate (PSD), police officers responding to the incident overpowered and arrested the suspect.
The commanding officer of the responding patrol sustained facial injuries during the confrontation and was admitted to hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
Jordanian authorities said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect had planned an attack targeting security personnel. The incident has been formally classified as a terrorist act.
According to the Associated Press (AP), Jordanian state television reported that the attacker had attempted to seize the slain officer’s weapon before another officer intervened.
- Sri Lankan Embassy confirms safety
In a statement, the Sri Lankan Embassy in Amman confirmed that all Embassy staff and members of the Sri Lankan community in Jordan are safe following the incident.
The Embassy expressed its deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased officer.
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Jordan, Wishwanath Aponsu, and Embassy officials are closely monitoring the security situation in coordination with Jordanian authorities.
A comprehensive investigation into the attack is underway. (Newswire)