Search operations in Vadamaradchi

[TamilNet, Monday, 25 May 1998, 23:59 GMT]
Road checks and search operations have been increased since Brig. Sanath Karunaratne assumed duties as the new Commanding Officer for the Vadamaradchi sector, said sources. Security has been also tightened in the army check posts, sources said.army check posts, sources said.

Sources said, the new Brigadier had been meeting residents in the Vadamaradchi sector, explaining them the security measures in the region, sources said.

Residents had told the Brigadier that nocturnal house-to-house searches during the nights have been causing them difficulties. However, the Brigadier had told them that these search operations are being conducted for their own security and asked them to cooperate with the Army.

Meanwhile, road checks on the Jaffna-Pt. Pedro road have also been increased during the last few days, said sources. There are 16 army check posts on the road between Pt. Pedro and Vallai Veli, which is only 12 km.

The passengers are asked to go off the bus and walk a distance of 300 to 400 meters at each of these check posts, said sources.