Security forces detain Red Cross official

[TamilNet, Tuesday, 27 April 1999, 12:09 GMT]
Sivanathan Kishore, an official of the Sri Lanka Red Cross in Vavuniya, is being detained at the security forces headquarters in Vavuniya, said security sources.

The Sri Lankan Army co-ordinating officer in Vavuniya granted Mr.Kishore's wife permission to visit him today.

Sources said that Mr. Kishore is being detained regarding the arrest of a Sri Lankan Red Cross Driver, Naagamani Easwaranathan (36), on April 10.

Meanwhile, 4 senior members of the National Sri Lanka Red Cross have arrived in Vavuniya this morning.

Sources in Colombo said that the Red Cross team had talks with senior security personnel in Vavuniya.

Sivanathan Kishore is the city coroner and a social worker well known in the local community.

The ICRC and UNHCR are in touch with senior SLA officials and are said to be keeping a close eye on the developments of Mr.Kishore's arrest and detention.