Crack Down on Israel-Run Narcotic Rings in Tourist Zones

Recent reports of Israeli nationals engaging in narcotics peddling and unauthorised business operations in the Eastern Province raise grave concerns about the future of ethical tourism and national security in Sri Lanka.   Areas like Arugambay, once prized for their natural beauty, are now reportedly home to illegal establishments: nightclubs, guest houses, and unlicensed taxi services, operating under the cover of local proxies. Narcotics are said to be trafficked in these spaces via closed online groups, while profits are repatriated through informal channels like Undiyal, depriving the country of vital tourism revenue and threatening local communities.

This is not just a tourism issue; it is a challenge to our immigration, financial, and narcotics enforcement systems. The current legal framework governing immigration is outdated and inadequately equipped to deal with long-stay tourists who unlawfully engage in business or criminal conduct.

To counter this alarming trend, it is recommended for the government to:-

• Tighten visa regulations and enforce deportation of offenders
• Amend the law to criminalise unauthorised Israel-run businesses
• Disrupt informal financial transfers through tighter monetary oversight
• Regulate all religious establishments operating outside traditional frameworks

Sri Lanka’s reputation as a safe, lawful, and culturally respectful tourism destination is at stake!

Mohamed Zahran

Colombo