Colombo: Security has been increased in the popular tourist destination ‘Arugam Bay’ area after information about possible danger to Israeli and American travelers in India’s neighboring country Sri Lanka. On Wednesday, America and Israel had asked to immediately move away from this area famous for surfing. The US Embassy in Sri Lanka said it had received ‘credible information about possible terrorist attacks targeting popular tourist destinations in the Arugam Bay area.’
Israel had issued an alert
After America’s warning, Israel also asked its citizens to move away from the area. Israel’s National Security Council raised its travel advisory to the highest level (Level 4) for Sri Lanka’s southern and western coastal areas, including Arugam Bay. Israeli citizens were appealed to leave these areas immediately.
Arrest due to Indian intelligence input
Sri Lankan local media reported on Thursday that two Sri Lankan citizens have been arrested in connection with terrorist threats against Israeli citizens. India has played an important role in this. One of the suspects lived in Iraq and intelligence provided from India played a key role in identifying him.
After these arrests, Sri Lanka Police has made special security arrangements around Arugam Bay. Sri Lankan police spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said that ‘information was received that a place called Chabad House, run by Israelis, could be the target. We have taken steps to strengthen security. Thalduwa acknowledged the recent tension between Jewish tourists and the predominantly Muslim community of Arugam Bay.
Police increased security
Thalduwa said that the local police has increased security. Barricades have been put up on the road and checking of vehicles has been tightened. Apart from this, arrangements have also been made for the safety of tourists coming to Sri Lanka. It is worth noting here that Chabad House was also targeted in the 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, where seven people were killed. Chabad House is a religious center of Jews. It was started under the Orthodox Jewish Chabad movement. It is found in various places, which are run by Jews.