The Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel to Sri Lanka after a state of emergency was declared and an island-wide curfew imposed.

However, the advice doesn’t apply to passengers transitting between flights in Colombo airport, as long as they remain airside.

The Foreign Office updated its advice on Friday afternoon following several violent incidences in Colombo, the island’s capital.

On 9 May, security forces used tear gas and water cannons against peaceful protestors, it said.

It added: “Incidents also took place near Beira Lake in Colombo, Kandy, and in other parts of the country, resulting in injuries and loss of life. Further incidents could take place.

“If you are in Sri Lanka at this time, or considering travel, you should avoid all protests and follow the advice of local authorities.”

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has confirmed that international travellers can use their passports and airline tickets as curfew passes to travel to and from the airport.

The Foreign Office added: “The economic situation is deteriorating in Sri Lanka with shortages of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food because of a shortage of hard currency to pay for imports.

“There may be long queues at shops and supermarkets, fuel stations, and pharmacies. There are ongoing daily power cuts due to electricity rationing.

“There have been a number of protests since 31 March 2022.

“Further protests are likely to take place across the island. The Government of Sri Lanka may impose local restrictions at short notice. You should be vigilant, avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings, and follow the advice of the local authorities.”