Sri Lanka: Heightened security nationwide ahead of Independence Day commemoration Feb. 4

Event

Sri Lanka will commemorate its 74th Independence Day Feb. 4. The main celebration will take place at Independence Square in Colombo from 0600. Senior officials, including the country's president and prime minister, as well as foreign diplomats and hundreds of participants typically attend the event. Commemorative programs will also occur in districts across the country with limited attendance due to COVID-19-related gathering controls.

In Colombo, authorities will close roadways around Independence Square on the day. Additional restrictions like road closures and traffic diversions will affect various roads and entry points to Colombo 07:00-14:00 daily through Feb. 3 for rehearsals. Authorities will enforce a nationwide closure of establishments selling meat and alcohol Feb. 4; other local businesses typically remain closed.

Tight security and localized traffic disruptions are almost certain near celebration venues and government buildings nationwide. Although there are no specific threats to the event, security forces are likely to be on high alert for possible militant attacks, mainly by Islamist groups, in light of the May 2019 serial bombings. Heightened deployment and intensive personnel and vehicle checks are probable around potential militant target sites, such as public squares, government buildings, transport hubs, and religious places. Increased processing times at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is likely. Protests by various civil groups are possible, especially in Colombo and Tamil-dominant Northern Province.

Advice

Plan for traffic disruptions near all celebration sites, especially in downtown Colombo and allow additional time to reach destinations. Consider avoiding official ceremonies, prominent events, government buildings, and other crowded places due to possible security threats. Avoid all protests as a precaution. Carry proper identification documents; remain polite and non-confrontational if stopped by security forces. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.