The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a warning against all but essential travel to Sri Lanka following terrorist attacks on Easter Sunday.
Bombs were used to attack three churches and three hotels in the country on 21 April, killing nearly 360 people including at least eight British citizens. The hotels involved in the incidents were the Shangri-La, the Cinnamon Grand and the Kingsbury. A fourth property was targeted but the attack was foiled.
It has emerged that at least one victim, IT director Lorraine Campbell from Manchester, was killed while staying at the Cinnamon Grand on business.
Sri Lankan police have made several arrests in connection with the attacks and it is believed one of the bombers once studied in the UK and Australia. Authorities have warned further attacks may target mosques.
The FCO says that while security has been stepped up across the island and a state of emergency and night-time curfew remain in place, “the extent of any continued threat” following the attack “remains unclear”.
Those who find it necessary to travel to Sri Lanka are advised to “remain vigilant” and keep up to date with developments on the situation on the island. They should also avoid crowded places and should not travel during curfew hours unless they have a valid passport and flight ticket, in which case police will allow them to make their way to the airport.
Some airlines are advising passengers to arrive early to check in for their flights due to increased security screening.