Sri Lanka declares curfew, tightens airport security and sets up road block as votes are counted

by admin
Sep 21, 2024

Although Sri Lanka's Presidential Elections have been "peaceful" according to the Elections Commission, it has decided to impose an islandwide curfew from 10 pm local time until 6 am tomorrow, with reports of tightened security at the international airport and a military roadblock in Mullaitivu.

The final results of the elections are expected to come in the morning hours of Sunday. 

The police issuing a communique said the decision was taken to ensure public safety and security. Citizens are expected to remain at home during curfew hours. Only those with authorized ID cards, health care personnel, and others will be permitted to travel and work during this period. Those travelling to the airport can show their flight tickets when asked. 

Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror reported that security at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) has reportedly been tightened to conduct search operations. According to the paper, around 200 Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) personnel have been deployed at the airport.

In Mullaitivu, one of the most militarised districts in the entire island, military roadblocks were set up overnight on the A35 road from Mullaitivu town to Paranthan Junction.

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