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11 Muslim civilians killed in Sri Lanka

B. Muralidhar Reddy

COLOMBO: At least 11 Muslim civilians engaged in the repair of a sluice gate in Amparai district were massacred on Monday. The incident, which came six days after the Co-Chairs of Sri Lanka signalled unconditional talks, has cast a shadow on early dialogue.

While Colombo blamed the LTTE for the carnage, the latter noted that the incident occurred close to a military camp.

The Government said the local community comprising mainly Muslims and Tamils drew water from the anicut.

The Sri Lanka Muslim Information Centre said a tense situation prevailed in Pottuvil town.

"Pottuvil people suspect a non LTTE involvement. It is notable that Sasthiraveli STF camp is nearly 350 metres away from the place where the massacre took place," it said.

TamilNet said the Special Task Force (STF) personnel and policemen who were deployed in the affected area fired several shots into the air to disperse angry Muslim protesters who stoned the STF and police vehicles on Monday afternoon.

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