Saint-Pair-sur-Mer. Attacks in Sri Lanka: “It’s a shock”

Holidaymakers from Saint-Pair, who left for Sri Lanka a few weeks ago on vacation, discovered with horror the attacks perpetrated in the country on Easter Day.

“I cried” , says Frédérique. This Saint-Peers retiree was on vacation in Sri Lanka, from March 23 to April 7. Two weeks later, on April 21, the country was hit by a wave of deadly attacks . 321 people lost their lives in explosions during Easter celebrations and in hotels. A heavy toll , the worst the country has known since the end of the civil war ten years ago.

When they saw the images on television, Frédérique and her vacationing friends couldn’t believe their eyes. “We were there a few weeks ago, we think we were lucky,” she explains. The attacks hit areas crossed by the group. “Negombo was one of our first steps, even though we only spent a few hours” , recalls Alain, also travel.

“No insecurity”

From their Sri Lankan journey, they remember incredible landscapes and welcoming inhabitants. “Not for a single second did we feel any tension between Sri Lankans of different religions,” continues Frédérique. The group of vacationers was even struck by the apparent tranquility of the place. “We didn’t feel insecure once during our trip. It’s a shock, ” says Alain.

Since the attacks occurred, the ten accomplices keep thinking about those they met on their way. Their guide Raja, the driver Ajith and his assistant, Saman. “They accompanied us for two weeks. We exchanged, laughed, shared things. It is terrible what is happening to them. Tourism is one of their primary resources “ , says Frédérique.

Social networks being blocked, it was impossible to get news from the three Sri Lankans. “We will try to send an email to Raja, to find out if everyone is okay. He has a friend in Alsace and we have promised to welcome him to Normandy, if his heart tells him. “

Aishwarya Yogeshwar

Aishwarya Yogeshwar is the visionary founder of CGI Jaffna, a pioneering organization dedicated to fostering innovation and community growth in the Jaffna region. With a deep passion for news publishing, Aishwarya combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a keen interest in delivering impactful and engaging stories. Her commitment to creating a platform for reliable news and meaningful discourse reflects her dedication to empowering communities through knowledge and information. Aishwarya’s leadership and innovative approach make her a driving force in the world of media and communication.

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