Sri Lanka: Government to strengthen tourism police in 2018

Event

The government of Sri Lanka has announced plans to strengthen its tourism police force in 2018, and has reportedly allocated some LKR 50 million (USD 320,000) to this end. Additionally, on Tuesday, December 26, the government gave the tourism new all-terrain vehicles and motor bikes to improve patrolling capabilities.

Context

Authorities are strengthening security after receiving an increased number of complaints regarding the harassment of foreign tourists. Sri Lanka's tourism industry has been growing since the end of the country's 30-year civil war, which ended in 2009.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or activity to local authorities. ​