President Mahinda Rajapaksa said a special security network will be enforced to protect tourist hotels in Colombo and its suburbs, during a special discussion he had with the owners of tourist hotels and Government representatives.


The Presidential directive was sequel to the terrorist attacks on Mumbai hotels.


"The need for a special security arrangement to protect hotels is greatly felt," President Rajapaksa stressed.


A committee headed by a retired DIG has also been appointed to co-ordinate security arrangements to be undertaken under the supervision of the Defence Ministry while the Tourism Ministry will be in overall charge.


Meanwhile, Police and Army will operate a separate security network involving security personnel attached to hotels.


Tourism Minister Milinda Moragoda, Deputy Minister Faizer Mustaffa, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and representatives of the Security Forces participated.