By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya and Ajith Siriwardena

Colombo, Oct 24 (Daily Mirror) -  Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the security threats to Israeli nationals in the Arugam Bay area, Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath said.

At a special media briefing, the Minister confirmed that the suspects, all Sri Lankan nationals, are currently being questioned regarding the incident. 

He said that further details about the suspects will not be disclosed to the public, as doing so could hinder the investigations.

Minister Herath said Sri Lankan authorities received intelligence information from foreign intelligence services about a potential attack on Israeli nationals earlier this month.

He said that similar information had also been received by the authorities during the previous government.

"We didn't inform the public until the information was confirmed, but we took security measures as soon as the information was received," he added.

He urged the public not to fall victim to misleading reports and cautioned against exploiting the situation for political gain, emphasising that the government has taken all necessary measures to ensure safety. 

He reassured the public that comprehensive security measures are in place to protect tourists.

Pix by Pradeep Pathirana