“The situation is very ‘intense and sensitive’, the likelihood of continuous disturbances such as civil unrest or disobedience is expected for the next few days at least,” the informed source claimed. Adding that taking this into account the military strengthened its presence so that it could mitigate such incidents at least to a certain extent.

Meanwhile, the Army today claimed that the LTTE has organized a number of commemorative activities in the north and east, declaring an unlimited period of mourning.

LTTE has also asked people in Arasadi, Valachchenai, Kuruwankerni, Santhiveli and Jaffna to raise black flags in protest against the killings. Several instances of burning of tyres, blockade of main roads were also reported from areas such as Santhiveli, Alankerni and Thampalagama. However, Policemen intervened to clear those roads in the area despite LTTE threats. It was also reported that the station master at Arasadi railway station has been threatened saying that he should stop rail service between Welikanda and Batticaloa. Train services are nevertheless operating as scheduled irrespective of LTTE orders. Published: Thu Feb 10 12:51:00 EST 2005