Minister of Tourism Vijitha Herath has announced plans to transform Elephant Rock in Arugam Bay into a fully developed tourist destination, as part of efforts to make Sri Lanka’s Eastern coastline an active tourism zone throughout all 365 days of the year.

Herath, joined by Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Wasantha Piyatissa, and several state officials, undertook an observation tour of the site yesterday.

The Minister emphasized that Arugam Bay should not remain limited to seasonal surfing, but instead be promoted as a year‑round attraction covering the entire Eastern Province. “Developing the necessary infrastructure facilities is our main objective,” he said.

Discussions during the visit focused on strengthening local small‑scale entrepreneurs and rural investors, while also attracting leading international hotel chains to expand the tourism zone.

Officials also reviewed the challenges faced by residents who have supported tourism despite inadequate facilities. 

Herath pledged swift government action to provide roads, electricity, water, and sanitation to ensure the community benefits from the region’s tourism growth. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that credible threats had been identified in Arugam Bay last year, which the National Security Council immediately thwarted.

Addressing Parliament today, the President said that at the time when security concerns were raised, officials — including himself, worked tirelessly to ensure national security.

“The National Security Council was convened twice, at 1 am and 7 am. It was convened through Zoom. I was in Dambulla, when we received all the information. We were able to prevent it,” Dissanayake said.

Dismissing criticisms on how the matter was handled, the President said “There truly was evidence to point to an incident in Arugambay. It was reported that there was a plan. Our Security Council was able to completely dismantle the plan, which must be commended.”

Vowing to protect all visitors to the island, the President asserted that the government does not discriminate. “We don’t care what nationality a tourist is. Or what that person is. If a tourist comes to Sri Lanka, we will protect that tourist,” he said.

He then criticized the opposition for their comments on the issue. “I don’t know what this opposition is doing. We want every tourist’s security,” the President said.

The President noted the government is paying special attention to sabotage attempts targeting the tourism sector, which he suggested are intended “to make the government uncomfortable.”

“There is a risk of targeting tourism zones to create certain incidents. They have been reported to intelligence agencies. They are completely thwarted,” the President said adding that those responsible will be brought to face the law.

President Dissanayake also stressed that he has complete faith in the country’s defence mechanism. (Newswire)

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International DJ, Tom Monagle, has raised concerns over the increasing presence of Israeli nationals and businesses in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka.

“I thought Arugam Bay was in Sri Lanka, but it looks like it’s in Tel Aviv, Israel. Was Arugam Bay promised to them 50,000 years ago?” he said, in a video shared on Instagram.

Sharing footage of various restaurants in the area, Tom Monagle pointed out the use of Hebrew language at many places instead of Sinhala or Tamil, with some places even displaying pro-Israel Defence Forces propaganda stickers. 

“It’s a very Hebrew-looking menu there. That’s more Hebrew. That’s a lot of Hebrew and pro-IDF stickers. I’m seeing a lot more Hebrew here than I’m seeing Sinhalese or Tamil. But we’re in Sri Lanka?” he questioned.

Tom Monagle also revealed that the Israelis were reportedly holding events in Arugam Bay, prohibiting locals. 

Tom Monagle called out the Sri Lankan Government, urging to to refrain from turning a blind eye to the situation.

Video : https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMwTqNGym6A/?igsh=OW43N2ZuYTc5bTFu  (Newswire) 

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The United States today lifted the security alert on the Arugam Bay area, following close collaboration with the Sri Lankan Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Issuing a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the decision was the result of close collaboration with the Sri Lankan side and the immediate and extensive security measures put in place by the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Public Security and related agencies. 

Sri Lanka takes any security alert seriously, and accordingly, the Sri Lankan authorities promptly implemented a series of coordinated security measures in the area to safeguard tourists, foreigners and residents against any possible threat. 

Detailed instructions were given by Sri Lanka Police to maintain security in the Arugam Bay area while emphasising the importance of safeguarding the freedom of tourists. 

The Foreign Ministry further said that the residents of the concerned areas, as well as, owners of tourist establishments and all persons engaged in the field of tourism cooperated closely with the Sri Lanka Police in these efforts. 

At a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath together with all related defence and public security agencies, briefed the Heads of Diplomatic Missions directly concerned, regarding the extensive measures by the Sri Lankan side, and urged the removal of the security alert and related travel advisories. 

The Foreign Ministry said this request was reiterated by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday. 

The US side rescinded the security alert this afternoon stating that the USA values the “strong partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka and law enforcement”. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates that Sri Lanka is a peaceful, beautiful and friendly destination for tourists ahead of the upcoming tourist season. 

In October,  the US Embassy issued a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Soon after, Sri Lanka Police clarified that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area may have prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue an advisory. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Police have launched investigations to find out whether tourists, including Israelis, in Arugam Bay, are engaged in any activities, such as business or religion, while on tourist visas. 

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing held today, Cabinet Spokesman Vijitha Herath said that there have been reports from the past of tourists engaging in business, religious and even illegal activities while on tourist visas.

He further said that as of now, all tourists, specifically Israelis, in the Arugam Bay area are on tourist visas. 

The Cabinet Spokesman revealed that the Police have informed the public to report if any tourist is found to be engaging in any business, religious, or other illegal activities while on holiday. 

Minister Vijitha Herath said that hotels have also been informed to notify if any tourists are engaged in any form of employment or business activities. 

Responding to a question about whether the US Embassy’s warning to the Arugam Bay area was considered political interference, the Government Spokesman said that each country has the power to warn its citizens in the event of a possible threat.

Minister Vijitha Herath revealed that prior to issuing the travel advisory related to Arugam Bay, the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka had informed him as well as the Sri Lankan security forces.

He added that as such, the government does not consider the current travel warning as political interference from foreign nations and that foreign countries are not required to ask for permission to issue a travel advisory. 

The update comes as the US Embassy in Sri Lanka last week issued a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Soon after several more countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and Russia, also updated their travel advisory related to Sri Lanka.

The National Security Council of Israel had also called on Israelis to leave Sri Lanka’s Arugam Bay area and other beaches in the island’s south and west immediately, citing terrorism threats. (Newswire)

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The US Government has not issued a travel ban on Sri Lanka but has only issued a warning for its citizens related to the Arugam Bay area, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung clarified today.

Addressing an event in Colombo, Ambassador Chung said misleading reports have been shared claiming that the travel advisory had been issued on the whole of Sri Lanka. 

Stating that there are no travel restrictions on Sri Lanka, Ambassador Chung said the warning issued recently is strictly limited to Arugam Bay only.

“I am proud of the U.S. Embassy’s ongoing collaboration with the government of Sri Lanka to respond to a security threat that resulted in our recent security alert, and we pledge that we will continue working together to support the safety and prosperity of Sri Lanka’s citizens and visitors alike.

“One of my duties as U.S. Ambassador is to ensure the safety and security of American citizens here in Sri Lanka. Globally, all around the world, our U.S. embassies operate under what’s called a “duty to warn.” If we become aware of a credible, specific security threat, we are required, required to share that information – with our staff, U.S. citizens, and the host government. Our “no double standard” policy also means that anytime we alert Embassy staff about a specific security concern, we are required to inform U.S. citizens as well. This approach is also standard practice worldwide

“When we became aware of a specific threat in the Arugam Bay area, we shared these known details with Sri Lankan authorities, who responded quickly. We continue to actively coordinate with them on a daily basis and we value our partnership with Sri Lanka’s leadership and security officials, whose commitment to safety and transparency is notable,” she revealed. 

Assuring that the recent warning is strictly only for the Arugam Bay area, she further said that the overall security travel advisory on Sri Lanka remains at Level 2.

“I want to also correct some misinformation out there: there is no travel ban on Sri Lanka. Our security alert last week is for Americans to avoid Arugam Bay until further notice, but our overall travel advisory for Sri Lanka remains exactly the same at Level 2, which has been so for many years and this is similar to advisories for many popular destinations including the Maldives, France and Italy. All the same at level 2, Sri Lanka remains at level 2. We know that continued safety and stability are essential for a thriving tourism sector, which we support absolutely, so we’re fully committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts to create a secure, welcoming environment for all,” the US Ambassador added. 

Her clarification comes after the US Government last week issued a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it has received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

At the time, commenting on the travel advisory, Police Spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area had prompted the US Embassy to issue a travel advisory. (Newswire)

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Three suspects have been arrested so far in connection to the potential threats to foreign tourists, especially Israelis, in the Arugam Bay area, Government Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath said.

Addressing a special media briefing today, Minister of Public Security Vijitha Herath said that based on investigations into intelligence reports, three suspects have been arrested.

“They are currently being questioned. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the ongoing investigations,” he added.

Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed that no foreign nationals were among the suspects arrested thus far. 

He went on to state that upon having received the intelligence report on the possible attacks, earlier this month, the government together with the tri-forces had acted immediately by taking necessary measures to prevent such attacks.

Minister Vijitha Herath assured that all measures to ensure the safety of visiting foreign tourists have already been implemented. 

All overseas diplomatic missions in the country have been briefed on the matter as well as the safety protocols implemented by the government, he added. 

Commenting on the Jewish prayer centres being established in various parts of Sri Lanka, Minister Herath said this was due to a religious festival of the Jews being commemorated in the latter part of October.

He explained that as a result of the Jewish festival, the Israelis set up these prayer centres for religious observances during their stay in Sri Lanka, adding that it was a temporary move. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Police has introduced a special hotline for Israelis in distress or those needing to ensure their personal safety.

“If an Israelite, who has visited Sri Lanka as a tourist or for other purposes, feels the need to ensure his/her personal security, he/she may directly contact the telephone number and get the necessary assistance,” a Police Media Unit statement said.

Israeli nationals currently in Sri Lanka are requested to contact the DIG Tourist Range of the Sri Lanka Police via the hotline 071-8592651 in case they need any assistance or information.

The new hotline has been introduced amid warnings of a potential attack on Israelis in the Arugam Bay area. 

The warning has prompted law enforcement authorities to tighten security in Arugam Bay, while several countries have issued travel warnings to their citizens. (Newswire)

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Former Presidential Advisor Sagala Ratnayake has advised the current government to appoint a National Security Advisor to prevent potential threats from terrorists to Sri Lanka.

Addressing the media yesterday, Ratnayake said that the introduction of an intelligence-sharing network with other countries had helped the former government avoid such threats. 

“Critical information was exchanged through this network, which helped us ensure the nation’s safety. When information was received on potential threats, we took timely measures. As a result, Sri Lanka has not faced major threats in the recent years,” he revealed.

Sagala Ratnayake pointed out that if the government had taken such necessary measures then they could have prevented these threats from emerging. 

Highlighting the negative impact of such threats on the growing tourism industry and the country, he stressed that the government must take measures to prevent such instances from occurring.

Sagala Ratnayake emphasized that such warnings not only affect the tourism industry but will also severely impact the economy, directly affecting Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange, hinder job opportunities, and business activities.

The former Presidential Advisor made the remarks while commenting on the recent travel advisory issued by the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area. (Newswire)

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Former minister Kanchana Wijesekera has raised concerns over the incumbent government’s inaction despite it having received information by October 07th on potential threats to Israeli tourists in the Arugam Bay area in Sri Lanka. 

Taking to ‘X’, Kanchana Wijesekera questioned why the government had not briefed the overseas diplomatic missions on the steps taken concerning the information on the potential attacks.

“While the threat to national security should never be taken lightly, Tourism income is one of the most important revenue streams for the country,” Kanchana Wijesekera said. 

He pointed out that if the government had had information beforehand and had briefed the diplomatic missions, then a travel advisory warning could have been prevented with the precautions taken. 

“The government should at least now call a meeting with the diplomatic missions and the security officials, brief them on the steps taken and work with the foreign missions to remove the travel advisory on Sri Lanka,” the former minister added. 

His comments come after the US Embassy in Sri Lanka issued a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Soon after several more countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and Russia, also updated their travel advisory related to Sri Lanka.

The National Security Council of Israel had also called on Israelis to leave Sri Lanka’s Arugam Bay area and other beaches in the island’s south and west immediately, citing terrorism threats.

As of now, two suspects have been arrested by officials from the Terrorism Investigations Division (TID), on suspicion over the alleged threats to Israeli tourists in the Arugam Bay area in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

According to the statement made by the Acting Chief of Police, the information on a possible attack was received by the GOSL on the 7th of October and was discussed at multiple security council meetings, investigated and precautions taken.

If the Government did have information…

— Kanchana Wijesekera (@kanchana_wij) October 24, 2024

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Two suspects have been arrested on suspicion over the alleged threats to Israeli tourists in the Arugam Bay area in Sri Lanka, the Police said. 

According to the Police Media Unit, the suspects were arrested by officials from the Terrorism Investigations Division (TID).

The arrests come in the backdrop of the US Embassy in Sri Lanka issuing a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it has received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Soon after, Police Spokesman Nihal Thalduwa clarified that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area may have prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue an advisory. 

“Due to their interest in surfing a lot of Israeli tourists have visited Arugam Bay. As the area is currently highly populated with Israeli tourists, we had received information in the recent past on possible threats to them,” DIG Thalduwa said. 

He further confirmed that special security measures are currently in place in Arugam Bay, with the involvement of the Police, Special Task Force (STF), Navy, Army, and State Intelligence Services (SIS). 

Following the travel advisory issued by the US yesterday, several more countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and Russia, also updated their travel advisory related to Sri Lanka.

The National Security Council (NSC) of Israel had also called on Israelis to leave Sri Lanka’s Arugam Bay area and other beaches in the island’s south and west immediately, citing terrorism threats. (Newswire)

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The National Security Council (NSC) of Israel has called on Israelis to leave Sri Lanka’s Arugam Bay area and other beaches in the island’s south and west immediately, citing terrorism threats.

“Those leaving these areas are advised to leave the country or at least to the capital Colombo, where there is a high presence of local security forces,” says the NSC.

According to the Israel Times, the warning further said Israelis should postpone travel to the rest of the country. They are also urged to hide signs that indicate they are Israelis and avoid gathering in large numbers. 

The warning comes after the US Embassy in Sri Lanka today issued a travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it has received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Issuing a clarification on the travel advisory, Police Spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area has prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue an advisory. 

Addressing the media today, Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa said that Arugam Bay and Pottuvil have been identified as the most preferred holiday destinations in Sri Lanka for Israeli tourists, due to activities such as surfing.

“Due to their interest in surfing a lot of Israeli tourists have visited Arugam Bay and as a result have also occupied a building in the area. As the area is currently highly populated with Israeli tourists, we had received information in the recent past on possible threats to them,” he said. 

DIG Thalduwa confirmed that special security measures are currently in place in Arugam Bay, with the involvement of the Police, Special Task Force (STF), Navy, Army, and State Intelligence Services (SIS). 

Following the travel advisory issued by the US, several more countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and Russia, had also updated their travel advisory related to Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Tourism has assured that the highest levels of safety and security will be maintained for all visitors throughout their stay in Sri Lanka.

Issuing a statement, Sri Lanka Tourism extended a warm invitation to travellers from around the world to visit the country during the upcoming tourist season. 

“We ensure that all tourists can enjoy a safe and secure experience while exploring the beauty of our island. The highest levels of safety and security will be maintained for all visitors throughout their stay in Sri Lanka,” it said.

Sri Lanka Tourism further said that the Ministry of Defense has also assured that necessary measures have been taken to guarantee the safety of tourists across all areas of the country, ensuring peace of mind for those currently staying in Sri Lanka and for those planning their visits.

The assurance comes in the backdrop of several countries issuing travel advisories to Sri Lanka, citing terrorism threats.

The US Embassy had initially issued the travel advisory to its citizens, stating that it had received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Issuing a clarification on the travel advisory, Police Spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said that the surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area has prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue an advisory. 

DIG Thalduwa has confirmed that special security measures are currently in place in Arugam Bay, with the involvement of the Police, Special Task Force (STF), Navy, Army, and State Intelligence Services (SIS). (Newswire)

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Former Weligama Mayor and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) member Rehan Jayawickrema has raised concerns over the threats to Sri Lanka due to the surge in Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay. 

Commenting on the travel advisory issued by the US Embassy in Colombo on potential threats to its citizens in Arugam Bay, as a result, Rehan Jayawickrema pointed out that Sri Lanka was now facing a serious security threat that could derail the nation’s tourism recovery efforts.

Taking to ‘X’, he said the illegal activities of certain Israeli business owners have persisted for far too long and that despite numerous appeals to various governments to put an end to this and ensure fair play, these requests have been ignored.

Calling on the authorities to address this situation with urgency, he said “If these warnings continue to be dismissed, the repercussions for Sri Lanka could be more severe than we anticipate.”

Rehan Jayawickrema went on to note that as the Arugam Bay season winds down, the Southern season begins, but the presence of heavy roadblocks in Weligama was already causing fear among tourists, casting a shadow over their sense of safety.

“To those Israelis fueling this instability, let me make one thing clear: you cannot forcefully and illegally occupy our lands as you have done elsewhere. You cannot conduct illegal business practices and ruin opportunities for others. Even though we have welcomed you to this beautiful island, this is not your country, and you must respect the laws of this land,” he added.

Concerns have been raised and travel advisories have been issued by several countries after reports of a surge in Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay, their recent occupation of a building in the area, and the opening of several shops, and restaurants with signboards in Hebrew. (Newswire)

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The surge in Israeli tourists and the occupation of a building in the Arugam Bay area has prompted the US Embassy in Colombo to issue a travel advisory on potential threats to its citizens visiting the area, Sri Lanka Police said today. 

Addressing the media today, Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa said that Arugam Bay and Pottuvil have been identified as the most preferred holiday destinations in Sri Lanka for Israeli tourists, due to activities such as surfing.

“Due to their interest in surfing a lot of Israeli tourists have visited Arugam Bay and as a result have also occupied a building in the area. As the area is currently highly populated with Israeli tourists, we had received information in the recent past on possible threats to them,” he said. 

The Police Spokesman said as preliminary measures the Police had already set up roadblocks and had also conducted routine inspections of vehicles and the public. 

DIG Thalduwa confirmed that special security measures are currently in place in Arugam Bay, with the involvement of the Police, Special Task Force (STF), Navy, Army, and State Intelligence Services (SIS). 

The Police Spokesman said keeping this in mind, the Police have taken measures to ensure the safety of all tourists visiting Sri Lanka in the upcoming holiday season. 

His clarification comes after the US Embassy in Sri Lanka issued a travel advisory stating that it has received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Meanwhile, social activist Ruki Fernando highlighted last week the establishment of a ‘Synagogue’ by Israeli tourists in the Arugam Bay area. 

Taking to “X”, Fernando said that there were reports of several Hebrew posts, shops, and restaurants with signboards in Hebrew popping up in Arugam Bay last week.

He further said that according to sources from the area, Police presence at the “Synagogue” and STF presence on the main road was to ensure no attacks on Israelis by those who may be hostile towards them due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.  

Sharing pictures of the Synagogue, the social activist said it was a building with fans, tin and sheet roof, with no walls or doors and was located in a small lane adjacent to a mosque. 

He further said that two policemen were inside the building and one on a watch tower, adding that locals worried about Palestine seemed unhappy about the Israeli presence in the area. (Newswire)

#Israelis seem highest # of tourists in #ArugamBay. On 16-17Oct saw;
Hebrew posts
Shops, restaurants wid signboards in Hebrew
"Synagogue" had police presence
STF & roadblock on main road.
Today a source told there is more police, STF, road blocks & "checking" of local people pic.twitter.com/r5YJCOEEzG

— Ruki Fernando (@rukitweets) October 20, 2024

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The US Embassy in Colombo has issued a travel warning for American citizens, advising against travel to Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka due to a credible threat.

According to the travel advisory, the US Embassy says it has received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area.

Details of the US Embassy travel advisory is as follows;

Location: Sri Lanka

Event: The Embassy received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area. Due to the serious risk posed by this threat, the Embassy imposed a travel restriction on Embassy personnel for Arugam Bay effective immediately and until further notice.

U.S. citizens are strongly urged to avoid the Arugam Bay area until further notice.

Actions to Take:

• Report all suspicious activity and emergencies to local authorities (119).
• Always maintain vigilance and be aware of your surroundings. Trust your gut, if a situation doesn’t feel right, get out of it.
• Always have some form of communication on you (i.e. cell phone).
• Monitor local media for news and updates. (Newswire)

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