Three individuals have been arrested on suspicion of planning an attack against Israelis in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, 22 Israelis staying in Sri Lanka returned from Katunayake Airport on the night of the 23rd of last month, and 575 Israelis are still staying in Sri Lanka. The Ministry of Public Security announced this.
Interrogating the arrested suspects
Three suspects have been arrested on suspicion and are currently being interrogated. In a recent press conference held on the 24th, attended by Defence Minister Vijitha Herath and other security officials, it was announced that, based on the information received, three individuals had been apprehended. However, it has not been confirmed whether they were planning an attack.
Minister Vijitha Herath emphasised that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the individuals in question have intentionally or unintentionally attempted to create any disturbances. He also stated that no firearms or explosives were found in their possession.
Intelligence
Arugambe, Bandarawela, Ella, Matara, Weligama, and Ahungalla—areas popular with foreign tourists—have taken measures to enhance security and increase inspections. Security has also been strengthened in Colombo and other densely populated areas. Given the military situation in the Middle East, it is the government’s responsibility to ensure the safety of tourists visiting Sri Lanka.
Minister Vijitha Herath stated that new information has emerged, indicating potential risks to the safety of tourists visiting Sri Lanka.
The minister highlighted that, based on the information provided by intelligence agencies, there was an opportunity to act promptly. He noted that the current government faced this challenge just a month after taking office. According to the information received, security measures were deployed at the beginning of this month, and there was extensive discussion on this matter within the Security Council.
The arrested suspects are members of certain organisations
This risk has emerged during a period when Israelis are visiting Sri Lanka as tourists, coinciding with an escalation in the conflict in the Middle East. This time is also significant for Israeli religious ceremonies.
The Israelis have selected various locations in Sri Lanka for their ceremonies. It has been indicated that an attempt was made to launch an attack on these sites. Additionally, Minister Vijitha Herath highlighted that this threat emerged even prior to the presidential election.
He emphasised that this situation should not be labelled as a risk due to the arrival of the new government. He also noted that it is not comparable to the Easter attack and that this threat is a global issue.
The suspects who have been arrested so far are not foreigners; they are Sri Lankans. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the arrested individuals do not possess firearms or explosives. It has become evident that they are leaders of specific organisations, and investigations are ongoing in this matter.
Why was not notified in time?
During the press conference, Minister Vijitha Herath addressed the lack of communication regarding the intelligence information received. He explained, “We did not inform the public in advance about the potential situation because we needed to verify the information and ensure its reliability. We worked tirelessly on this matter. Currently, there is a safe atmosphere in the country, allowing tourists to carry out their activities freely in Sri Lanka. There is no need for concern.”
