• It was reported that two Sri Lankans, one of whom is reportedly based in Iraq, were ready to execute the attack

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Sri Lankan security forces have been alerted to a potential attack on Israelis in the Arugam Bay area by Indian intelligence agencies.   

According to intelligence information, the threat is believed to be targeted at foreign nationals.

Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya also said that intelligence regarding possible threats was first received on October 7. “We had reports indicating a potential attack aimed at foreign nationals,” he said, adding that the issue was extensively discussed in a security council meeting where operational instructions were provided.   

It was reported that two Sri Lankans, one of whom is reportedly based in Iraq, were ready to execute the attack. They have allegedly been offered approximately Rs. 5 million for their involvement. Indian intelligence agencies have supplied Sri Lankan authorities with all relevant information, including the names of the individuals involved.  

According to information the attack was planned in Arugam Bay as a revenge for the killing of the leaders of the Hezbollah organization by Israel in recent days.   

Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have killed at least seven high-ranking Hezbollah commanders and officials in recent weeks, including the group’s chief Hassan Nasrallah, who was assassinated in a strike on his underground headquarters in Beirut late September.