STF opens fire at hartal observers in Akkaraipattu

[TamilNet, Friday, 03 February 2006, 05:45 GMT]
Several civilians sustained minor injuries when Special Task Force (STF) soldiers opened fire at civilians observing hartal in Thirukovil area in Akkaraipattu Friday morning. The incident took place near Akkaraipattu-Pottuvil highway, sources said.

Tamil residents of Amparai district observed hartal on Friday protesting against the abduction of TRO staff near Welikande Batticaloa, and Sri Lanka Army (SLA) harassment of civilians.

Protesters burnt tyres and setup road blocks across the highway when STF opened fire for more than five minutes. None of the injuries was serious, sources said.

AKkaraipattu, Thirukkovil, Tambiluvil and Pothuvil areas came to complete standstill, according to residents.