Curfew imposed in Negombo after clashes

Monday, 6 May 2019 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Police imposed curfew in Negombo yesterday after clashes erupted in the seaside town.

Initial reports said clashes occurred between two groups, which was confirmed by police but officials declined to give additional details.

Army also deployed troops to bring the tensed situation under control following a clash between two groups.

Police declared curfew on Negombo police Division to prevent further escalation of the clash.

The initial clash erupted following an argument between two individuals belonging to two ethnicities in Kochchikade Poruthota area in Negombo Police Division, Police spokesperson Ruwan Gunesekara told Daily FT.

“The area is close to Katana church as well, therefore police took a precautionary measure to impose curfew as the situation at present is fragile,” he said.

The violent encounter between the two groups had damaged a three-wheeler and motor cycles.

The police was not able to confirm damage to other property such as homes and commercial buildings.

Small fires on the roadside were also spotted in at least two locations.

However at the time of going to press there were no reports of casualties. Police curfew was imposed still 7am and strong police and military presence was observed in the area.

Negombo has been in mourning after dozens of people died in St. Sebastian Church on Katuwapitiya.

The small town is estimated to have lost the most number of people in the Easter Sunday attack that saw three hotels and three churches being targeted.

At least 257 people are estimated to have died in the attacks and about 500 people injured.