• Says arrival of tourist is for the betterment of SL
• Police Spokesperson says Cops and armed forces are vigilant

In the wake of recent criticism regarding the increasing number of Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay and the business activities they are involved in, the Police stated that the presence of any foreign national who poses no threat should not be viewed as a concern, unless they are in breach of the law.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Police Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler said that Sri Lanka welcomes all tourists, regardless of nationality, and that the country should take pride in being a sought-after destination. He also noted that foreign travellers choosing to visit Sri Lanka – whether Arugam Bay or any other area – should be seen as a positive sign for the country’s development.

“There is no issue with the increasing number of Israeli nationals in Arugam Bay. Let the Israelis, Palestinians, or any other nationals who come to Sri Lanka enjoy the beauty of our country. We should be proud of our land. If foreign nationals are visiting, that’s for the betterment of Sri Lanka. I don’t understand why it’s being seen as an issue. We are waiting to see our country grow and rise,” he added.

At the same time, Wootler assured that the Sri Lankan security forces, including the Police and the armed forces, remain alert to any potential threat and will act swiftly in the event of any disturbance. “The Police, the three armed forces, and all relevant parties are keeping an eye on things. They'll act whenever there is an issue,” he added.

This response comes following a video posted by international DJ and tourist Tom Monagle, who criticised what he described as a growing Israeli influence in Arugam Bay. In the video, shared on social media, he remarked: “I thought I was in Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka, but it kind of looks like Tel Aviv, Israel. Was Arugam Bay promised to them 50,000 years ago?” He also shared footage of restaurants and wellness centres in the area, many with signage and menus in Hebrew, and claimed some displayed stickers supporting the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).

Attempts to contact the Minister of Public Security, Ananda Wijepala and the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Prof. Ruwan Chaminda Ranasinghe proved futile.