Security Messages

Warden Message - October 28, 2009

As of 12:30 pm today, October 28, 2009, the U.S. Embassy has received reports of a demonstration progressing from Vihara Mahadevi Park and headed towards the Kollupitiya area (near the U.S. Embassy).

U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area at this time since even peaceful demonstrations may turn confrontational. Embassy security notes that the police are placing barriers on the Galle Road at the Kollupitiya junction. The Galle Road may be closed temporarily and getting in and out of the Embassy may be difficult.

U.S. citizens requiring urgent Citizens Services may contact the Embassy via telephone to reschedule their appointments.

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov . Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is +94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is +94 11 249-8888. The fax number is +94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://srilanka.usembassy.gov.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov . Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Warden Message - October 22, 2009

The U.S. State Department has released to the U.S. Senate a Congressionally-mandated report regarding incidents involving possible violations of international humanitarian law during the conflict between the Government of Sri Lanka and the terrorist organization Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

In response to the report, demonstrations may occur around the U.S. Embassy or in other places affecting U.S. citizens. If the U.S. Embassy receives news regarding a specific demonstration, further warden messages will be issued via email and posted on the Embassy website.

U.S. citizens are advised to keep a low profile and remain alert since even peaceful demonstrations may turn confrontational.

Warden Message – October 1, 2009

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of a planned demonstration progressing from Vihara Maha Devi Park to Kollupitiya junction (near the U.S. Embassy), beginning at 10:30 this morning.

U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area at this time since even peaceful demonstrations may turn confrontational.
U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov . Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is +94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is +94 11 249-8888. The fax number is +94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://srilanka.usembassy.gov.

Warden Message - September 15, 2009

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of a planned demonstration outside the British High Commission, 389, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo – 7, to be held tomorrow, September 16th, 2009 commencing at approximately 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area around the British High Commission at this time since even peaceful demonstrations may turn confrontational.

Consular Message - May 19, 2009

Dear American Citizens,

We would like to alert you that the US Embassy will be closed on the following days:

May 20, 2009 – National Holiday - (Wednesday)
May 25, 2009 - Memorial Day - (Monday)

Please note that after May 25, 2009 American Citizen Services will resume regular days and hours, which are:

Mondays and Wednesdays between 2:00-4:00pm

Please check the U.S. Embassy website throughout the year for information on holidays when the Embassy will be closed. In case of an after-hours emergency, you can reach the U.S. Embassy by telephoning: +94-11-249-8888

Thank you

WARDEN MESSAGE – May 19, 2009

The President of Sri Lanka will address Parliament today to proclaim the end of hostilities against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Official and unofficial celebrations are expected across the island, particularly in Colombo. There may also be additional demonstrations against foreign missions, like those that occurred yesterday at the British High Commission.

The Embassy has no specific threat information at this time, but advises American citizens to be extremely cautious and vigilant. Stay away from large public gatherings and street celebrations, which could turn violent or uncontrollable. Road closures, heavy traffic delays, and increased security measures are likely, so the Embassy generally advises Americans to limit unnecessary movements in Colombo. As always, Americans should cooperate fully with security forces as they implement increased security measures.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka.

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). “

Warden Message - April 30, 2009

This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 Influenza A, formerly known as swine flu.

At this time, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is not aware of any reported cases of H1N1 Influenza A in Sri Lanka or Maldives.

The U.S. Embassy in Colombo has received reports that local authorities are now screening selected arriving passengers at Sri Lanka’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Currently, passengers with recent travel to the United States, Canada, Mexico, and New Zealand are being screened upon arrival at the airport. At this time, screening is on a voluntary basis, but we understand that mandatory screening may begin soon. Passengers should be aware that additional countries may be added to those identified for screening if local authorities deem necessary.

For further information about H1N1 flu, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the United States Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html.

For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at www.travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries.

Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka and Maldives are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Sri Lanka and Maldives. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Embassy’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka.

Warden Message - April 22, 2009

Elections for Sri Lanka’s Western Provincial Council will held on Saturday, April 25, 2009. While the Embassy does not have any specific threat information, American citizens are advised to avoid large public gatherings, political party offices, and polling/counting stations until April 26. (Please note that schools and government offices are typically used as polling and counting stations.)

Some pre-election violence has already been reported, and there is the possibility of additional violence. Road closures, traffic congestion and extra security measures should be expected in the vicinity of polling and counting stations.

As always, the Embassy reminds American citizens to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about their personal security. Americans are advised to be on alert if visiting government facilities and public venues. Americans should continue to avoid military installations, government and military convoys traveling on the roads and, where possible, government buildings, as they have in the past been targets for political violence. Americans are again reminded to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan security forces as they implement increased security measures.

Consular Message - March 23, 2009

Dear American Citizens,

US Consul Christopher R. Green will be in the Maldives on April 4th , 2009 to provide consular services to the American citizen community. He will be available as follows:

Jade Bistro (in Male near Pier 10) from 10:00am – 11:00am on April 4th, 2009

If you wish to meet the Consul, please reply to this email message at your earliest, before close of business on March 27th , with your name, preferred option of venue and the type of service you require. Available services will be: passport renewal, additional passport pages, notarials and reports of birth.

Please distribute this message to any American citizen that you know is in the Maldives, who may not be registered with the US Embassy in Colombo.

Warden Message - February 2, 2009

On Wednesday, February 4, the Government of Sri Lanka will hold official ceremonies in Colombo on the Galle Face Green marking the country’s Independence Day. Although we have no specific threat information at this time, attacks against high-profile political events have occurred in the past, and the Embassy believes there is an increased possibility of terrorist attacks directed at Sri Lankan government, police, and/or military targets in Colombo during this week. The Embassy advises American citizens to avoid the Galle Face Green area, where the primary ceremonies will be held, for the duration of this week, as well as large public gatherings such as the Deyata Kirula events scheduled for this week at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall (BMICH).

Due to the increased possibility of attacks, as well as major traffic disruptions caused by vehicle barriers and checkpoints, the Embassy generally advises Americans to limit unnecessary movements in Colombo for the rest of the week. As always, Americans should cooperate fully with security forces as they implement increased security measures.

Please be advised that the Embassy will be closed on February 4. American citizens needing emergency assistance may contact the Embassy as indicated below.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka.

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Consular Message - January 8, 2009

Dear American Citizens,

We would like to alert you that the Consular Section of the US Embassy will be closed on the following days:

January 14, 2009 – Tamil Thai Pongal -(Wednesday)
January 19, 2009 – Martin Luther King Day -(Monday)
January 21, 2009 – Administrative closure -(Wednesday)

Due to the fact that the Consular Section will be closed on three consecutive days which are designated for American Citizen Services, it will be open for American Citizen Services on the following days:

January 20, 2009 – 2:00 – 4:00pm -(Tuesday)
January 22, 2009 – 2:00 – 4:00pm -(Thursday)

Please note that after January 22, 2009, American Citizen Services will resume regular days and hours, which are:

Mondays and Wednesdays between 2:00-4:00pm

Thank you

Warden Message - December 22, 2008

The Department of State warns American citizens traveling to or living in Sri Lanka about the continuing danger of terrorist attacks throughout the country. This replaces the Travel Warning for Sri Lanka dated June 13, 2008 and highlights changes in locations of security concerns, and notes recent terrorist attacks.

The Department of State urges American citizens to evaluate carefully the risks of travel to Sri Lanka and specifically warns Americans against travel to the Northern Province and most of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. All of the Northern Province remains dangerous. In Anuradhapura District of the North Central Province, the areas north of Medawachchiya, the A14 road, and the road from Medawachchiya and Horowupatna are dangerous. Non-official travel by U.S. Government personnel to the Eastern Province, other than the A6 road corridor and Trincomalee Town in Trincomalee District, and areas in Ampara District south of the A4 road and west of Maha Oya, is prohibited.

Since early January 2008, fighting between the Sri Lankan military, paramilitary groups and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has increased, and bomb explosions in densely populated areas have killed dozens of civilians, including in some areas frequented by foreign tourists. Although there is no specific indication that American citizens or institutions have been targeted, there is a heightened risk of American citizens becoming victims of violence just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. American citizens who decide to travel to Sri Lanka despite this Travel Warning should be aware of their personal surroundings and follow prudent security practices. Americans should avoid large crowds and public gatherings and should particularly avoid political rallies, military bases, and government and military vehicle convoys, which are frequent targets of LTTE attacks. Americans are also strongly advised against using public transportation in Sri Lanka, as civilian buses and trains have increasingly been the targets of terrorist bomb attacks in recent months. U.S. Government personnel are currently prohibited from using these modes of transportation.

Recent incidents include an October 28, 2008 LTTE aircraft attack that damaged the main power plant in Colombo, and a suicide bombing on October 6, 2008 that killed 28 civilians and injured 80 at the opening of a political party office in Anuradhapura.

On June 6, 2008, 22 civilians were killed and 70 injured by an anti-personnel mine aimed at a passenger bus in Colombo. The same day, two people were killed by another anti-personnel mine detonated in a passenger bus in Kandy. On May 31, 2008, a grenade attack on a bus stop in Wellawatta killed two people and wounded 10. On May 26, nine civilians were killed and 84 injured in a train bombing in Dehiwala. On February 3, 2008, 14 civilians were killed and approximately 100 were injured when a suicide attacker detonated an explosive device inside the main railway station in Colombo. The same day, seven were injured when a grenade was detonated at the Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo. On February 2, 2008, a bomb on a bus from Kandy, headed for Anuradhapura, exploded in Dambulla and killed 18 civilians and injured over 50.

Americans are also advised to avoid government buildings, military installations, and government vehicle convoys. On January 8, 2008, a government minister was killed and several persons were injured when his vehicle was attacked on the road between Colombo’s international airport and central Colombo. In 2007, the LTTE also attacked an Army camp in Yala National Sanctuary, and the Katunayake Air Force Base in Colombo was attacked by LTTE aircraft, causing brief suspension of operations at the adjacent Bandaranaike International Airport. Foreign tourists were not specifically targeted in these attacks and none were injured.

While the government has effectively controlled the eastern part of the country since July 2007, security in much of the Eastern Province is not yet assured. Some LTTE members and larger numbers of armed paramilitary members are active in the area, leading to instability and incidents of violence. This situation is likely to continue for some time. Americans are particularly warned against travel to LTTE-controlled areas in the north, which may pose severe hazards.

Americans should comply with all instructions from security forces and police when traveling in Sri Lanka. American citizens, including those of Sri Lankan origin, whether living in Sri Lanka or traveling there even for only a few days, are strongly urged to register with the Embassy. Registration will allow the embassy to provide direct information on the security situation as necessary. Registration is done on-line and can be done in advance of travel at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/. Information on registering can also be found at the Embassy website: http://srilanka.usembassy.gov
or at the Department of State's Consular Affairs website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/registration/registration_1186.html.

The U.S. Embassy is located at 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka. The Embassy's telephone number during normal business hours Monday through Friday is (94) (11) 249 8500. The after-hours emergency telephone number is (94) (11) 249 8888. The Consular Section fax number is (94) (11)-249 8590. The Embassy's web site is http://srilanka.usembassy.gov/. The Consular Section has a specific email address dedicated to American Citizens Services at ColomboACS@state.gov. The general email address for the consular section is consularcolombo@state.gov. The Embassy in Colombo also covers the Republic of Maldives.

As the Department continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information documents, including the Worldwide Caution, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or, outside the U.S. and Canada, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays)

Warden Message - November 19, 2008

In light of the upcoming LTTE observance of Heroes Day (“Maveerar Naal”) on November 27, the U.S. Embassy would like to remind American citizens to avoid high-profile venues and gatherings, as outlined in the current Travel Warning for Sri Lanka.

U.S. Embassy personnel have been advised to consider deferring all non-essential travel from now through November 28, 2008.

As always, the Embassy reminds American citizens to continue to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about their personal security. Americans are advised to be on alert if visiting government facilities and public venues. Americans should also continue to avoid military installations, government and military convoys traveling on the roads and, where possible, government buildings, as they have in the past been targets for LTTE violence. There are likely to be traffic disruptions as Sri Lankan security forces increase their security checks. Americans are again reminded to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan security forces as they implement increased security measures.

Warden Message - October 29, 2008

On October 28, 2008, from approximately 10:30 PM until 11:30 PM, the LTTE conducted air raids on the Sri Lanka Army base at Tallady in Mannar and on the Kelanitissa Power Plant just north of Colombo. The raids caused damage to property and one known death at the Kelanitissa Power Plant; two injuries have been reported from the raids.

During last night’s incidents in Colombo and Mannar, the Sri Lanka government cut power to Colombo as a precautionary measure and used anti-aircraft fire against the LTTE aircraft. The US Embassy advises citizens to remain indoors when anti-aircraft weapons are in use due to the risk of injury from falling shrapnel or bullets.

Warden Message – October 07, 2008

On October 6 at approximately 8:45 am, a suicide bombing took place in Anuradhapura during the opening of an office of the United National Party (UNP), killing retired Major General Janaka Perera and Dr. Rajah Johnpulle, who appear to have been the primary targets. In total, 28 people were killed and more than 80 wounded.

Attacks of this nature against high-profile political events have occurred in the past, and the Embassy urges American citizens to avoid such events whenever possible. Although the attack occurred in Anuradhapura, a city frequented by foreign tourists, there is no indication that foreigners were targeted as attacks of this kind have occurred throughout the country.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://srilanka.usembassy.gov.

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Warden Message – October 02, 2008

Dear American Citizen,

If you registered to vote absentee at the Presidential Election this year but have not yet received your absentee ballot from your individual state election office, please complete a Federal Write in Absentee Ballot (FWAB) and mail it back to your county election office.

Instructions and FWAB forms can be found at http://www.fvap.gov/overseas-citizens/fed-write-in-absentee-ballot/index.html (If you have difficulty downloading the form, please contact the Embassy Voting Assistance Officer to arrange for pickup/mailing of a hard copy to you)

You may directly mail the completed FWAB to your county election office or,

You may hand it in to the Embassy to be sent via diplomatic pouch up until October 10th, 2008 or,

You may choose to use the services of a courier company such as Fed EX, DHL or UPS. (Please contact the individual courier companies for details on rates and times or to arrange for a pick up).

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Voting Assistance Officer via email on votecolombo@state.gov or call 011-249-8686

Warden Message - July 23, 2008

The Government of Sri Lanka will be hosting the 15th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit from July 27 – August 3, 2008 in Colombo. Sri Lankan authorities have announced numerous road closures to the general public during the summit, which include Galle Road north of Kollupitiya Junction where the U.S. Embassy is located.

The Embassy will remain open during the summit period. However, due to the likely difficulty of traveling to and within Colombo during the SAARC summit, the Embassy encourages American citizens who require routine services to come to the Embassy prior to or after the SAARC Summit. Americans are reminded to obey all instructions from security personnel. The high profile nature of the SAARC summit may mean a greater likelihood that you will be stopped for security checks.

The Embassy’s consular section will also remain available to provide emergency services to American citizens. American citizens needing emergency assistance may call +94-11-249-8686 during regular business hours, or +94-11-249-8500 after hours, when they should ask for the duty officer.

The Embassy reminds American citizens to continue to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about their personal security. As always, Americans are advised to be on alert when visiting government facilities and high-profile public venues. Americans should also continue to avoid military installations, military convoys traveling on the roads and, where possible, government buildings, as they have in the past been targets for LTTE violence. There are likely to be traffic disruptions as Sri Lankan security forces increase their security checks. Americans are again reminded to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan security forces as they implement increased security measures.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Travel Warning for Sri Lanka, Country Specific Information for Sri Lanka and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Warden Message - June 25, 2008

At approximately 11:00 am on June 25, 2008, a suspicious powder was discovered at the U.S. Embassy in Colombo. The suspicious substance will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. Until the results are received and a determination is made that the substance does not pose health or safety risks, the Embassy will be closed to the public. All visa appointments and routine American citizen services will be postponed until this incident is resolved.

The Embassy’s consular section will remain available to provide emergency services to American citizens during the closure. If you are an American citizen and need emergency assistance please call +94-11-249-8686 during regular business hours, or +94-11-249-8500 after hours and ask for the duty officer.

Please note that the American Center, located at 44 Galle Road, Colombo 3, has not been affected by this incident and will remain open for business.

For additional information, please refer to ?A Safe Trip Abroad? found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate?s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State?s latest consular information sheet for Sri Lanka and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, both available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Warden Message - February 3, 2008

In light of attacks today at the Fort Railway Station and the Dehiwala Zoo, American citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in and around Colombo through Sri Lankan Independence Day on Monday, February 4th. The Embassy will continue to monitor the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.

Regrettably, the Gregories Road Super Bowl event on Monday morning is cancelled.

In light of the current security situation, the Embassy again reminds American citizens to defer non-essential visits to crowded public places and high-profile public venues.

Warden Message - January 31, 2008

The Sri Lanka Department of Elections has announced that elections for nine Local Councils in the Batticaloa District are to be held March 10, 2008. These elections are for positions located in areas formerly controlled by the LTTE, and include:

Municipal Council of Batticaloa
Munmunai West – Vavunatheevu Pradeshya Sabah
Manmunai Southwest – Paddipalai PS
Poratheevu Pattu – Vellaveli PS
Manmunai South & Eruvil Pattu – Kaluwanchikudy
Manmunai Pattu – Arayampahty PS
Eravur Pattu – Chenkalady PS
Koralai Pattu – Valaichenai PS
Koralai Pattu North – Vakarai PS

Some pre-election violence has already been reported from the Batticaloa District, including extra-judicial killings, assassinations, and disappearances. The Embassy anticipates that more pre-election violence is likely, especially given the operation of various armed groups in the area.

The Department of State’s current Travel Warning for Sri Lanka advises against travel to the East due to the uncertain security environment there. American citizens who plan to travel to the East despite the existing Travel Warning are strongly advised to defer travel to these particular districts and to Batticaloa Town until after the Batticaloa District Local Council elections in March.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3. The telephone number is 011 94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is 011 94 11 249-8888. The fax number is 011 94 11 249-8501. The Consulate’s e-mail address is consularcolombo@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://usembassy.state.gov/srilanka. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Country Specific Information for Sri Lanka and the Worldwide Caution, both available at http://travel.state.gov. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Warden Message - January 11, 2008

On January 11th at approximately 7:45pm, a small explosion took place in the railway station in Fort, Colombo. Police report that one person sustained minor injuries, and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In light of the current security situation, the Embassy again reminds American citizens to defer non-essential visits to crowded public places and high-profile public venues.

Warden Message - January 9, 2008

On January 8th at approximately 10:30am, Non-Cabinet Minister D.M. Dassanayake was fatally wounded by a fragmentation mine (claymore) explosion in the vicinity of Ja-Ela, on the main road between Colombo and Sri Lanka’s International Airport. The blast has so far claimed two lives and injured more than ten security personnel and civilians.

Later the same evening at approximately 8:00pm, an explosion took place in the vicinity of the Lake House Building in Fort, Colombo. According to Sri Lankan law enforcement, the explosive device was placed inside a public telephone booth. There were no injuries except for one civilian who was treated for shock, and the area has been cordoned off.

In light of these incidents American citizens are advised to avoid government and military convoys and to continue to defer non-essential visits to crowded public places and high-profile public venues.

Warden Message - January 3, 2008

On January 2nd at approximately 9:30am, a bus carrying military personnel was damaged by a fragmentation mine (claymore) explosion in the vicinity of Slave Island, Colombo 2. The blast killed at least five and injured more than twenty military personnel and civilians.

At this time, the Embassy has no information about possible future attacks against civilians. However, in light of this incident American citizens are advised to defer non-essential visits to crowded public places and high-profile public venues.

As always, the Embassy reminds American citizens to continue to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about their personal security. Americans are advised to be on alert when visiting government facilities and public venues. Americans should also continue to avoid military installations, military convoys traveling on the roads and, where possible, government buildings, as they have in the past been targets for LTTE violence. There are likely to be traffic disruptions as Sri Lankan security forces increase their security checks. Americans are again reminded to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan security forces as they implement increased security measures.

Embassy of the United States

Security Messages