Travel Security

Tourism Police Service in Sri Lanka

The Tourism Police Service in Sri Lanka is a dedicated unit established to ensure the safety and security of tourists visiting the country. Given the significance of tourism to Sri Lanka's economy, the Tourism Police plays a critical role in maintaining a secure and welcoming environment for travelers. Here's a detailed overview of the Tourism Police service and its role in the Sri Lankan tourism sector.

 

Overview of Tourism Police Service

• The Tourism Police was established under the Sri Lanka Police Department with the primary goal of providing specialized services to ensure the safety and protection of tourists.
• The unit operates in key tourist areas across the island, especially in regions that are popular among international visitors, such as coastal areas, historical sites, and major cities like Colombo, Galle, Kandy, and Ella.
• Tourism Police officers are trained in tourist-specific law enforcement, focusing on handling incidents that may affect travelers, including theft, harassment, fraud, and other criminal activities targeting tourists.

Key Responsibilities and Functions

The Tourism Police Service has a broad range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for tourists:

• Ensuring Tourist Safety: The Tourism Police provides a visible security presence in areas frequented by tourists, such as beaches, resorts, heritage sites, and popular tourist attractions.
• Crime Prevention: By patrolling tourist areas, the Tourism Police works to prevent crimes such as theft, scams, harassment, and other illegal activities that might target tourists.
• Responding to Complaints: They respond to complaints made by tourists, offering assistance in cases of theft, fraud, lost property, or any other disturbances.
• Language Skills: Many officers in the Tourism Police unit are trained in English and other foreign languages to better communicate with international visitors, addressing their concerns more efficiently.
• Providing Information: Tourism Police officers often provide general information and guidance to tourists, helping them with directions, advice on safety, or recommendations on avoiding common tourist traps.
• Coordination with Local Police: The Tourism Police works in coordination with the regular local police units to ensure that more serious incidents or crimes involving tourists are handled promptly and with full legal backing.

Tourist Assistance and Protection

• 24/7 Assistance: The Tourism Police operates round-the-clock, offering 24/7 assistance to tourists in the event of emergencies, accidents, or crimes.
• Emergency Response: In cases of emergencies, the Tourism Police acts swiftly to ensure that tourists receive the necessary medical, legal, or consular assistance.
• Safe Reporting Environment: Tourists are encouraged to report any incidents of harassment or crime to the Tourism Police without hesitation. The officers are trained to handle such situations sensitively and professionally, ensuring tourists feel comfortable.

Presence in Major Tourist Areas

The Tourism Police has units stationed in most of the country’s top tourist destinations, with a higher concentration in areas that attract the most tourists. Some of the regions where Tourism Police units are particularly active include:

• Colombo: Sri Lanka's capital city and its surrounding areas are patrolled regularly by Tourism Police, especially near hotels, shopping centers, and major tourist attractions.
• Galle and the Southern Coast: Known for its beaches and historic sites, the southern coast is a key area for Tourism Police operations, particularly in towns like Galle, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa.
• Kandy: As a cultural hub, Kandy sees large numbers of tourists visiting temples, festivals, and other attractions. The Tourism Police ensures safety in areas such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic and around Kandy Lake.
• Sigiriya and Cultural Triangle: In areas like Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura, where there are UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Tourism Police are responsible for maintaining security for tourists visiting these historical landmarks.
• Ella and Hill Country: The scenic hill country, including Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Haputale, is a key focus for the Tourism Police, given the popularity of trekking and nature tourism in these regions.

Common Issues Handled by the Tourism Police

The Tourism Police deal with a variety of tourist-related issues, including:

• Pickpocketing and Theft: Particularly in crowded tourist areas or on public transport, where petty theft can occur.
• Harassment: Addressing incidents where tourists are harassed by touts, unlicensed guides, or street vendors.
• Fraud and Scams: Ensuring tourists are not victims of scams related to currency exchange, unregulated transport services, or counterfeit goods.
• Tourist Accidents: In the case of accidents, such as road mishaps involving tourists, the Tourism Police facilitate quick medical attention and coordinate with insurance services if necessary.

Collaborations and Awareness

• Collaborations with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA): The Tourism Police works closely with SLTDA to promote tourism security. They conduct awareness campaigns and distribute materials to inform tourists of common safety precautions and how to avoid potential risks.
• Community Engagement: Tourism Police engage with local communities, ensuring they understand the importance of tourist safety, thus fostering a welcoming and secure environment for visitors.

Emergency Contact Information

Tourists in Sri Lanka can contact the Tourism Police through dedicated hotlines or by visiting Tourism Police stations in major tourist areas. Emergency contact details are often available at hotels and tourist information centers.

• Tourism Police Hotline: +94 11 242 1052
• Sri Lanka Police Emergency: 118 / 119

Recent Initiatives

In recent years, the Tourism Police has enhanced its services to adapt to the growing influx of tourists, including:

• Increased Patrols: More frequent patrols in key tourist zones to deter criminal activities and provide a greater sense of security.
• Technology Use: Some areas now use CCTV surveillance in conjunction with regular police patrols to monitor activity and ensure a quick response to incidents.
• Training Programs: Continuous training of Tourism Police officers, including language proficiency and conflict resolution skills, to improve their interaction with foreign tourists.

Promoting a Safe Tourism Environment

The Tourism Police is crucial in ensuring that Sri Lanka remains a safe and tourist-friendly destination. Their presence contributes to maintaining the country's reputation as a peaceful and hospitable place for international visitors, thus promoting the growth of tourism.