• Working with SL law enforcement agencies essential to neutralize such threats, says Embassy

By Kelum Bandara   

Affirming that the travel restriction on Arugam Bay was rescinded due to reduced risks, a spokesperson for the U.S.embassy said it strongly values partnership with the Sri Lankan government and the law enforcement agencies whose collaboration had been essential to neutralize such threats and ensure safety of Sri Lankans and visitors from around the world .   The spokesperson said the embassy received information that the threat targeting Arugam Bay has been significantly neutralized.  

“ Due to the reduced risk, the U.S. Embassy lifted its internal travel restrictions effective immediately and rescinded the security alert that had been shared with U.S. citizens on October 23, 2024,” according to the spokesperson.   

On November 8, the U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against Farhad Shakeri, an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asset, and two associates involved in an alleged murder-for-hire plot targeting President-Elect Donald J. Trump, with additional plans disclosed to target Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, the spokesperson added.