Sri Lanka: Gunman fires on police officers in Kilinochchi May 19

Event

An unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of police officers in Kilinochchi in the early morning hours of Friday, May 19. According to officials, the attacker fired into a police station but did not hit any of the officers. Security forces are conducting a search operation for the gunman and have recovered a firearm in the area.

Context

Kilinochchi is a former stronghold of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The attack occurred a day after Tamils observed the eighth anniversary of the end of a civil war that lasted for three decades. According to media reports, tensions are high between the hardline and moderate Tamil leadership over the commemoration of the end of the conflict.

Advice

Individuals in Kilinochchi are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and to expect increased security measures in the area.