Sri Lanka’s president has reportedly declared a state of emergency, giving new powers to the military and deploying thousands of troops on the island’s streets.
The Daily Telegraph reports that security forces have surrounded the state-run radio and television station buildings, as well as other Government offices in the capital, Colombo. The President, Chandrika Kumaratunga, has also suspended parliament and sacked three cabinet ministers.
The development, which gives the military increased powers to stop, search and arrest people without charging them, is seen by many as a blow to the peace process that is currently playing out in Sri Lanka. It is especially likely to upset the Tamil Tigers, who have been fighting a 20-year war of independence but signed up to a ceasefire early last year.
The developments come just a week before the arrival of the England cricket team and hundreds of supporters for a five-week tour of the country. The Foreign and Commonwealth (FCO) Office website, at www.fco.gov.uk/travel, refers to the suspension of parliament but has no specific related advice for travellers heading for Sri Lanka.
