The updated travel advisory issued today by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) warns the Britons to avoid any political gatherings or rallies held ahead of the Presidential election.

The updated advisory says political rallies and election campaigns in Sri Lanka have occasionally turned violent and there is an underlying threat from terrorism.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriate and foreign travelers, it says.

It noted the violent disturbances earlier this year in the coastal tourist towns of Aluthgama and Beruwala which resulted in 4 reported deaths and many injuries, as well as damage to buildings and local businesses.
The advisory says there have been isolated incidents and disturbances elsewhere around the country, primarily targeting Evangelical Christians and Muslims and asks the British citizens to "take care and avoid demonstrations."

Noting that the security forces have imposed restrictions preventing all foreign passport holders (including British nationals) travelling to the Northern Province, and all foreign passport holders planning to travel to the north must get prior approval from the Ministry of Defence, the travel advisory asks the travelers to obey orders from the security forces since military activities are ongoing and observe signs warning of the danger from land-mines.

"You should be vigilant. Avoid military areas and High Security Zones. Always carry formal photographic identification with you. Stop and show your ID when asked to do so. The Sri Lankan Prevention of Terrorism Act permits prolonged detention without charge or trial," the advisory warns.

Full travel advice on Sri Lanka can be found here.
(Colombo Page)