Sri Lankan Migrant Workers Report Chemical Attacks in Israel
Sri Lanka has raised concerns over a series of incidents involving chemical-laced water attacks on foreign migrant workers, including three Sri Lankans, in Israel. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Tel Aviv confirmed the reports, highlighting the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of all foreign workers in the country.
The Embassy received alerts about videos and social media reports that described instances where foreign workers were sprayed with chemically mixed water by small groups in isolated areas. These incidents have sparked alarm among the Sri Lankan community and prompted official responses from both local authorities and the embassy.
Three Sri Lankan workers have come forward to share their experiences, leading the Embassy to formally notify the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA). The Embassy has called for urgent measures to protect all foreign workers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their safety and well-being.
Following the first reported incident, Israeli police in Dimona arrested five suspects, all youths aged between 13 and 19. They have been detained for six days as investigations continue. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence to identify those involved in similar incidents.
Despite these troubling events, the Embassy noted that Israeli society generally respects foreign workers, and such incidents are rare. It also mentioned that while many civilians in Israel possess licensed firearms, it is uncommon for these weapons to be misused against other civilians.
Israeli security forces are closely monitoring the situation, and Sri Lankans in Israel have been advised to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines until conditions stabilize. The Embassy has issued several recommendations to its citizens:
- Travel in groups, especially when collecting or sending salaries.
- Safeguard belongings at all times.
- Avoid using mobile phones while traveling.
For emergencies, foreign workers are advised to contact the following services:
- Israeli Police Civil Affairs Emergency: 100
- Israeli Ambulance Service: 101 (available free of charge)
- Sri Lankan Embassy Hotline (WhatsApp): +94 71 844 7305
The situation remains under close scrutiny, and the Embassy continues to work with local authorities to address the concerns of Sri Lankan workers. As more information becomes available, further updates will be provided to ensure the safety and security of all affected individuals.