The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Sri Lanka, urging citizens to exercise caution ahead of the upcoming Presidential election.
The advisory notes that demonstrations may occur before, during or after the election, scheduled for September 21, 2024.
The statement warns that police have, in some cases, used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protests, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid gatherings, even peaceful ones, as they can quickly turn violent.
The advisory notes a persistent threat of terrorism across various public spaces in Sri Lanka.
It added: “Past attacks have targeted tourist attractions, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, and more. These incidents are often unpredictable and can occur with little to no warning.”
The U.S. Department of State also provided recommendations for Travelers:
Avoid Gatherings: U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid all public demonstrations and gatherings. Even those that appear peaceful can escalate quickly and pose a significant risk.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and follow guidance from local authorities.
Exercise Caution: Remain vigilant in public spaces and be cautious of your surroundings.
