Hartal in Sammanthurai to protest killing of bodyguard

[TamilNet, Tuesday, 11 July 2006, 13:02 GMT]
In response to the call by the Sammanthurai Majlis Assurah, residents of Sammanthurai division in Amparai district Tuesday observed general shut down condemning the killing of Mohideen Bawa Nizar, a bodyguard of Mr.Anwer Ismail, Minister of Irrigation and Amparai district parliamentarian two days ago, and to protest against killing of Muslim civilians in the North East, sources said.

Business establishments, government offices, schools and branches of state and private sector banks were closed. All transport services through Sammanthurai came to a standstill. Business establishments in Mavadipalli and Maruthamunai also were closed in support of the general shut down, sources said.

Mr.Anwer Ismail held a press briefing later and explained the objective of the general shut down.

He said his bodyguard was killed in a premeditated well planned attack. Within two months this was the fourth time his bodyguards have been attacked. His residence was also attacked earlier, he said.

He further said these attacks had been made by nefarious elements who are determined to defeat Muslim people in achieving their legitimate aspirations.

"Everyone should strive hard to strengthen the harmony among Tamil and Muslim communities," said Mr.Anwer Ismail.

Mr.Dayamohan, Batticaloa District LTTE political head denied the allegation made by Mr.Anwer Ismail at the press conference that there were reports that LTTE was behind the killing of his bodyguard. Mr.Dayamohan said the killing was an internal matter to the Muslim community.