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To extend presence

COLOMBO: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced on Friday that it had agreed to extend its presence at Omanthai crossing in Vavunia in the north from three to five days a week. The decision is some consolation to the civilians in the north amidst signs of growing hostilities between the security forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in recent days. An announcement by the ICRC said that the decision followed a request by the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE and would be effective from Monday. At present, Omanthai checkpoint is opened only three days in a week. It is the only land route for civilians in Vanni. People in Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu and Vavuniya districts also use the A-9 high way through Omanthai checkpoint. Food and other items are also brought in through the checkpoint. The ICRC chose to reduce its presence at the checkpoint in June this year to three days a week following a number of incidents that jeopardised the safety of the civilians crossing the lines and that of the ICRC members present there. It said its representatives would continue to be present at the Uyilankulam crossing in Mannaar.

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