Grenade attacks on Muslim traders in Vazhaichcheanai

[TamilNet, Friday, 25 January 2008, 13:48 GMT]
Unidentified persons hurled a hand grenade Friday early morning at 3:10a.m. at the residence of a Muslim business man, located in Semma’nodai, Oddamaavadi within Vazhaichcheanai police division in Batticaloa district, Vaazhaichcheanai police said. In a similar incident Wednesday night 10:45 p.m., residence of another Muslim trader near Hyrath Mosque came under grenade attack, according to police.

The grenade thrown at the residence of K.M.Aatham Bawa, located on Moulana Road damaged a portion of the house and destroyed some furniture. The residents were asleep at the time of the attack, but survived without any injuries, sources said.

Police have commenced investigation to find the motive for the attack and identify the attackers.

No arrests have yet been made related this incident.

Meanwhile, in another attack targeting the residence of another Muslim trader, A.L.M.Ismail, Wednesday in Vazhaichcheanai area, part of the house was destroyed but none of the occupants were hurt, police said.

Ismail is an active supporter of Sri Lanka Muslim Congress, (SLMC) and the attack was likely due to political rivalry, regional sources said.

Vaazhaichcheanai police have commenced investigations but no arrests have been made

Vazhaichcheanai is located 32 k.m. North of Batticaloa.