Sri Lankan authorities have arrested three individuals for allegedly plotting an attack against Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay, following a tip-off from Indian intelligence. The government acted swiftly upon receiving the information and has heightened security measures across the country, with the US and UK issuing travel advisories for their citizens. Sri Lanka's Muslim minority groups have been protesting against Israeli actions on social media, but the police have assured that foreign nationals will be protected and a hotline has been established for tourists to report any suspicious activity.
Terror Plot Foiled in Arugam Bay: Sri Lanka Arrests Three Suspects
Background
Arugam Bay, a popular tourist destination in eastern Sri Lanka, has been targeted by terrorists in the past. In April 2019, a series of coordinated suicide bombings and shootings in Colombo and Negombo killed over 250 people. The attacks were claimed by the Islamic State (ISIS) group.
Current Situation
On January 5, 2023, Sri Lankan authorities arrested three individuals suspected of plotting an attack against Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay. The arrests were made following a tip-off from Indian intelligence.
According to the government, the suspects were planning to use explosives and other weapons to target tourists from Israel. The government has heightened security measures across the country in response to the threat.
The United States and the United Kingdom have issued travel advisories for their citizens, warning them to be vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel to Arugam Bay.
Protests and Assurances
Sri Lanka's Muslim minority groups have expressed outrage over Israeli actions on social media, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Palestine. However, the police have assured tourists that foreign nationals will be protected.
A hotline has been established for tourists to report any suspicious activity. The number for the hotline is +94 112 694 771.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why were the suspects arrested? The suspects were arrested for allegedly plotting an attack against Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay.
2. What were the suspects planning to use in the attack? The suspects were planning to use explosives and other weapons to target Israeli tourists.
3. What is the current security situation in Arugam Bay? Security measures have been heightened in Arugam Bay following the arrests. Tourists are advised to be vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel to the area.
4. Are foreign nationals safe in Sri Lanka? The police have assured foreign nationals that they will be protected. A hotline has been established for tourists to report any suspicious activity.
5. What is the government doing to prevent future attacks? The government is working with international intelligence agencies to gather information and prevent future attacks. Security measures have been enhanced throughout the country.
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