The United Kingdom, United States and Australia this week issued updated travel advisories warning their citizens over travelling to Sri Lanka amid anti-Muslim violence in Kandy district and the government's declaration of a state of emergency.
“The Sri Lankan government announced a nationwide state of emergency in response to recent incidents of inter-communal violence in Ampara and Kandy. The state of emergency may include curfews in specific locations across the country. You should exercise caution, avoid protests and rallies, and comply with local security requirements,” the UK Foreign Office said.
“The Sri Lankan Government declared a State of Emergency and curfews have been imposed in some regions, including Kandy Administrative District, due to communal unrest. Further incidents possible over the next few days. Monitor local media for updates,” the US State Department tweeted.
Australia's foreign ministry said:
“The Sri Lankan Government declared a nationwide State of Emergency for 10 days due to incidents of communal unrest. Avoid protests and large public gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent.
Monitor local media and follow instructions issued by local authorities. The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise normal safety precautions in Sri Lanka.”
