Trincomalee Beach Party Turns Violent: Foreign Tourists Attacked

COLOMBO (News 1st); A man has been remanded until July 21 in connection with an alleged sexual assault on a foreign woman at a beach party in the coastal town of Uppuweli, Trincomalee. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of July 6, has sparked concern over tourist safety in the region.

According to police reports, the foreign woman was attending a party at a hotel in Alleswatta, Uppuweli, when a local man allegedly attempted to sexually assault her. She later informed two friends—one from New Zealand and the other from the United Kingdom—who were also present at the event.

While the group of four was returning to their accommodation after the party, the same suspect, accompanied by another individual, reportedly confronted them again and attempted a second assault. During this encounter, the foreign nationals were physically attacked.

“The attack involved the use of an object resembling a belt,” said Prabath Vidanagama, Acting Director of the Tourist Police Division. “Despite the assault, the two foreign men managed to rescue the women and escort them safely back to their hotels. The complaint was received by the Uppuweli Police Station that same morning, and within 24 hours, we identified and arrested one of the suspects.”

The arrested suspect was presented before the Trincomalee Magistrate’s Court on July 7 and was ordered to be held in remand until July 21. Police also revealed that the suspect was found in possession of more than two grams of narcotics at the time of arrest.

The second suspect is believed to have fled the area, and investigations are currently underway to locate him.

“The cooperation of the complainants is crucial as we proceed with legal action,” Vidanagama added. “If they do not appear before the court, it could hinder the judicial process. We are using modern technology to facilitate proceedings and ensure justice is served.”

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aruun Hemachandra issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident, emphasizing that such acts tarnish Sri Lanka’s international image.

“We must ensure that foreign visitors feel safe in our country,” the Deputy Minister stated. “The government is committed to creating a secure and welcoming environment for all tourists.”