2nd update
BATTICALOA: Twenty five persons, including sixteen Police personnel, seven civilians and two Chinese nationals are confirmed dead in the Friday (17) mid-noon accidental explosion around the KARADIYANARU Police Station premises.
Latest reports said 52 persons including 32 Police personnel and 20 civilians sustained injuries and were admitted to BATTICALOA General Hospital and KARADIYANARU Base Hospital. 4 seriously injured Police personnel were airlifted to COLOMBO National Hospital for immediate surgeries and treatment.
Police and Security Forces ruled out sabotage or any terrorist involvement in the explosion, caused due to accidental handling of the explosives that had been brought to the venue for safe keeping. Normalcy prevails in the area and extensive investigations are in progress. (See previous report below)
