A Sri Lankan man has been arrested after being caught on camera exposing himself to a solo female traveler, identified as Molly, who advocates for women’s right to travel independently. Molly, a New Zealander, reported the incident to the Tourism Police Department, leading to the man’s apprehension within five days. The incident, captured in a video shared on social media, has sparked renewed conversations about the safety concerns faced by women traveling alone.
Molly expressed her relief at the swift arrest but also highlighted the pervasive unease many women experience when interacting with men, stating, “Unfortunately, this is the reality for women. I’m always quietly suspicious of my interactions with men.” Her statement reflects broader research indicating that female travelers often face heightened risks of harassment and assault. While initiatives exist to promote safe travel for women, incidents like this underscore the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure their safety and well-being while exploring the world.