By Hannah Giacardi & Annabal Bagdi Courtesy .mirror.co.uk

The Government has updated its terror advice to Brits heading to Sri Lanka, warning terrorist groups ‘are likely’ to carry out attacks

The Foreign Office has warned Brits travelling to Sri Lanka that a terror attack is likely 

UK holidaymakers are being warned of a potential terror threat in Sri Lanka. The Foreign Office has stated that terrorist groups ‘are likely’ to target the popular tourist hotspots. British travellers could be at risk in areas such as beaches, bars and restaurants. Those travelling to Sri Lanka are advised to avoid crowded public places and remain vigilant of their surroundings.

On November 14, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued an update on terrorism in Sri Lanka, stating: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.”

They further advised: “Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.”

They also added: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad. Avoid crowded public places. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to certain destinations owing to the increased global tensions resulting from the continuing conflict between Israel and Palestine. According to the FCDO: “The current conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories has led to heightened tensions around the world.

They warned that terror groups like Al-Qaida and Daesh are urging their followers to launch attacks in the wake of the strife, stating: “Terrorist groups such as Al-Qaida and Daesh, have called on their supporters to carry out terrorist attacks in response to the conflict. The conflict could also motivate individuals to carry out attacks.”

They further cautioned travellers that deliberate or haphazard attacks may target communities and interests linked to Jewish, Muslim, Israeli, or allied nations, explaining: “Terrorist attacks could target Jewish or Muslim communities, or the interests of Israel and its allies. Attacks could also be indiscriminate and occur without warning.”

Reflecting on past atrocities, the Foreign Office said that over 250 lives were lost in a series of devastating terrorist actions on Easter Sunday in 2019. The attacks targeted three churches and three hotels across Sri Lanka, hitting Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa, with eight British nationals among the casualties.

https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/urgent-foreign-office-high-threat-34365790