SLA prevents entry into Paduvankarai

[TamilNet, Thursday, 27 November 1997, 23:59 GMT]
All non-residents were turned back today at all entry points to Paduvankarai region (the vast western hinterland) in Batticaloa in view of Heroes Day (Maveerar Nall).

Sri Lankan Army and Police checked national identity cards and only permanent residents of Paduvan Karai region were allowed to proceed.

There are five entry points which are used by civilians to enter Paduvankarai region, which is controlled by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

All the entry points to Paduvankarai are manned by Sri Lankan Army and Police.

Traffic was sparse in the areas controlled by the Sri Lankan Army and there was less activity in these areas. Many people did not venture out today for their normal duties.

The Sri Lankan army at the Vavunathivu camp northwest of the Batticaloa town fired mortar and artillery last night in the direction of the Paduvankarai region.

Shelling started at about 10.45 and lasted for nearly 30 miniutes, said local recidents.

However it could not be confirmed whether there were any casualities.