Colombo security tightened after intelligence warning of attacks

[TamilNet, Sunday, 15 January 2006, 17:56 GMT]
Security in Colombo and its suburbs has been strengthened following warning by government intelligence agencies warned of imminent "terrorist" attacks on government strategic installations. Additional Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) soldiers have been deployed at the Katunayake international airport, police sources said.

Two more army sentry points have been set up in the beach road from Bambalapitya to Wellawatte parallel to Galle Road. Vehicles plying through this road are subjected to severe check by armed forces, police sources said.

Road patrols in Colombo and suburbs have been increased.

More Sri Lanka Air Force personnel have been deployed surrounding the Katunayake International Airport and all vehicles going to the airport are stopped and meticulously checked by security forces. Passengers of these vehicles are asked to produce their national identity cards and other valid documents before entering airport area, sources said.

Kochchikade Police arrested a Tamil girl on Saturday (Pongal Day) when she was going to a Hindu Kovil on suspicion. She was taken to the police station for questioning, sources said.