Foreign Office updates Sri Lanka travel advice

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has updated its travel advice for Sri Lanka, but it is continuing to warn against all but essential travel to the Indian Ocean island following terror attacks on Easter Sunday.

It has clarified that the travel advisory doesn’t apply to passengers transiting Colombo airport providing they remain airside.

The FCO is still insisting that further terror attacks are ‘very likely’, adding: "Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners."

On April 21, terrorist carried out suicide bombings at three hotels – the Shangri-La, Kingsbury and Cinnamon Grand hotels in Colombo – and three churches in Sri Lanka: in central Colombo, in the northern suburb of Colombo Kochchikade, and in Negombo roughly 20 miles north of Colombo; and in the east of the country in Batticaloa.

According to official figures more than 250 people were killed, including at least six British nationals.

Security has been stepped up across the island and a State of Emergency remains in place, said the FCO.

"The Sri Lankan authorities have made a number of arrests in relation to the attacks, and security operations are ongoing, including controlled explosions of suspicious packages and vehicles, and temporary evacuations of buildings. The authorities have also announced emergency regulations that, until further notice, ban the wearing of clothing or objects that conceal the face in such a way that prevents the wearer’s identification," it added.

Its advice for Britons already in Sri Lanka is to:

* remain vigilant, keep up to date with developments and follow the advice of local security authorities and hotel security staff;
* keep a low profile, avoid crowded public places, large gatherings (including religious gatherings and places of worship) and any demonstrations. All of the attacks on 21 April were carried out either in places of worship or in places where foreign visitors were affected. Any further attacks may be targeted against similar locations;
* keep in touch with family and friends, ensuring they are aware of any plans you may have.

"If you’re in Sri Lanka and you are already due to leave or now wish to do so, keep in regular contact with your airline, tour operator and travel insurance company (where applicable) to ensure you are aware of arrangements that may be in place for customers," it said.

"If you’re travelling independently, you should make your own arrangements to leave via commercial means, in consultation with your travel insurance company. If you choose to remain in Sri Lanka, then you should check that your insurance policy provides adequate cover.
"You should ensure you have confirmed, pre-arranged travel plans in place before leaving your accommodation for the airport. Travel within Sri Lanka may be subject to delays – you should check with your travel provider well in advance and allow extra time. Colombo Airport is operating, but with increased security checks and long queues for taxi pick-ups.

"Some airlines are advising their passengers to arrive early for check-in, in light of increased security screening. You should check with your airline about suggested check-in times. As above, follow the instructions of the local authorities."