The Sri Lankan government has issued an official statement addressing the assault of Filipino travel vlogger Joseph James Weber, widely known as “The Lost Joey,” during his visit to Weligama, Matara in February last year.
Weber, who documents his global travels on his popular YouTube channel, shared a video of the incident on Saturday (24), drawing widespread attention. The video shows him being physically assaulted while filming in the southern coastal town, a popular spot among surfers and tourists.
According to the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the assault took place on 24 February 2024, and Sri Lanka Police arrested the suspect on the same day. The individual was produced before the Matara Magistrate’s Court, and legal proceedings remain ongoing.
“The Government of Sri Lanka deeply regrets the occurrence of this incident and remains committed to ensuring that justice prevails,” the statement said, adding that authorities have already extended full support to Weber in all investigations and legal processes.
Emphasising its commitment to tourist safety, the government reiterated that it places the highest priority on safeguarding visitors and preserving Sri Lanka’s image as a safe, welcoming travel destination. It noted that all relevant institutions have been directed to take swift legal action against individuals or groups whose actions threaten the country’s reputation and its vital tourism sector.
Tourism is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, and incidents of this nature risk undermining ongoing efforts to revive the industry after recent challenges. The government reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the integrity of the sector and building confidence among global travellers.
Weber has not yet publicly commented on the matter so far.
