The Foreign Office has reiterated a US warning over an attack threat to a top Sri Lanka surfing spot.
An alert for Arugam Bay on the southwest coast of the country was issued by the US Embassy in the capital Colombo early today (Wednesday).
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice for Sir Lanka to reflect the security alert.
Quoting the US advisory, it said: “The US 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.
“US citizens are strongly urged to avoid the Arugam Bay area until further notice.”
The FCDO added: “Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and follow our guidance on safety and security.”
Existing travel advice says that terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka “cannot be ruled out”.
It notes that “attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals such as hotels, tourist sites and places of worship. Avoid crowded public places, large gatherings and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities”.
More than 250 people, including eight Britons, were killed in terrorist attacks against three churches and three hotels in Colombo, Negombo and in Batticaloa on Easter Sunday in April 2019.