Sri Lanka High Alert as rebels’ vow Retaliation
Pakistan Times Wire Service

COLOMBO: A government security alert was in place across Sri Lanka Sunday after Tamil Tiger rebels vowed to retaliate for a day of heavy battles on land and sea that left more than 50 people dead.

Already tight security was further strengthened in the face of escalating violence in northern and eastern regions Saturday that saw furious fighting between the rebels and government soldiers.

"We have made sure that security is tight," Colombo police chief said Sunday. "We are seeking public cooperation to track down any suspicious activity."

At least three policemen were killed in a powerful anti-personnel mine blast in northern Sri Lanka, police said, blaming separatist Tamil Tiger rebels for the attack.

The fatalities occurred in northern Vavuniya district when a mine targeted a police vehicle that was transporting drinking water for security personnel. A sergeant and two constables were killed.●