In a swift and effective response, the Sri Lankan police have arrested an individual who allegedly stole a bag containing foreign currency and valuables worth around Rs. 2.5 million from a female foreign tourist on a private bus in Pettah on May 25, Colombo. The suspect was apprehended in Pethiyagoda, Kelaniya, and all stolen items, including a laptop, camera, bank cards, and the tourist’s passport, have been recovered.
The tourist, a YouTuber visiting Sri Lanka to create a travel video, was en route to Ella when the theft occurred. She had placed her bag on a bus at Bastian Mawatha, Pettah, when the suspect swapped his own bag with hers and fled. Thanks to quick police action, using informants and CCTV footage from the bus, the 31-year-old suspect, a resident of Pethiyagoda, Kelaniya, was identified and apprehended on 31 May.
The tourist expressed her gratitude for the efficient work of the Sri Lankan police, praising their dedication and effectiveness in ensuring her valuables were returned. This incident underscores the commitment of local law enforcement to maintaining the safety and security of tourists in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with authorities taking prompt action to protect visitors and address any incidents swiftly. The Pettah Police are conducting further investigations into the matter.
