By Colombo Telegraph –

“Violent crimes against foreigners are relatively infrequent, although there have been an increasing number of reports of sexual offences including on minors.  When travelling around Sri Lanka, you should make arrangements through reputable travel companies and exercise appropriate caution.  Women should take particular care when travelling alone, or in small groups, and carry personal alarms.  See our Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad page.” says  UPDATED British Government travel advisory warning notice.

Updated 14 August 2012 travel advisory warning notice says; “Organised and armed gangs are known to operate in Sri Lanka and have been responsible for targeted kidnappings and violence.  While there is no evidence to suggest that British nationals are at particular risk, gangs have been known to frequent tourist areas.  Although incidents involving tourists are rare, a British national was killed during a violent attack by a gang in a tourist resort in December 2011.”

“Credit card fraud is the most common type of crime affecting visitors. It is advisable to use cash wherever possible and to use ATMs attached to banks or major hotels. Do not let your credit card leave your sight when you use it. Some travellers experience problems using their credit / debit cards on arrival in Sri Lanka when their banks’ automated fraud protection system blocks transactions. It may be useful to inform your bank in advance of your intended travel arrangements. If your card is blocked, you will need to contact your bank to re-activate it. There are plenty of money-changers in tourist areas if you want to change cash.” the notice further says.

Under the subheading Safety and Security – Political Situation it says ” Travellers should note that the end of the military conflict in May 2009 has seen an upsurge of nationalism in Sri Lanka. As a result, anti-Western (particularly anti-British) rhetoric has increased. This has led to violent protests against the British High Commission and other diplomatic premises. Although no protests have so far been directed at the British community more generally, you should be vigilant and avoid demonstrations.”

To read the full updated British Government travel advisory warning notice click here