Colombo, Oct 23 (FN Bureau) Sri Lankan police announced on Wednesday that they are taking additional proactive measures to safeguard tourists and citizens from potential threats, as the U.S. embassy has revealed information about possible attacks in the Arugam Bay, a popular tourist destination on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast. The police also introduced the dedicated hotline “1997” for reporting any security issues faced by tourists.
In a statement, the police highlighted that a record number of tourists are expected to visit Sri Lanka in the coming months, according to government estimates, and assured that the Sri Lankan government takes full responsibility for ensuring the safety and freedom of all tourists.Taking into account the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, the police will roll out a special security program in collaboration with intelligence services to ensure the safety of visitors. The Sri Lanka Tourist Police will be further strengthened, with Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya issuing instructions to all police stations to prioritize tourist safety, the police said. Tourism is one of Sri Lanka’s leading sources of foreign revenue. Sri Lanka expects to attract 2.3 million tourists this year and 3 million in 2025.