Sri Lanka: Curfew imposed in several areas of the Western Province, July 8

Event

Officials have imposed a police curfew in several areas of the Western Province July 8. The curfew will run from 21:00 until further notice. The curfew covers Negombo Division, Kelaniya Division, Nugegoda Division, Mount Lavinia Division, Colombo (North) Division, Colombo (South) Division, and Colombo (Central) Division. Residents are required to remain indoors during the curfew. Furthermore, travel through these areas is prohibited. The implementation of the curfew coincides with an increase in nationwide anti-government unrest in reaction to worsening economic conditions and the government's response to the situation.

Officials will almost certainly deploy additional security personnel to impacted locations to monitor adherence to the curfew order. Additional patrols and checkpoints are likely. Officials are likely to disperse any gatherings that occur during the curfew period. Clashes between persons ignoring the curfew and police are likely. Significant ground travel and business disruptions are likely, including in areas bordering locations under curfew orders.

Advice

Adhere to the curfew provisions. Liaise with local or trusted contacts for further information. Avoid public gatherings. Heed the instructions of local officials. Plan for freight shipment disruptions and increased congestion on roads near areas under curfew orders.