Incident: Ambush (fatalities), Sri Lanka

TP writes in with news that two humanitarian workers were killed and two others critically injured during a roadside ambush 9 kilometers north of Chavacachcheri , in Jaffna District (300km north of capital Colombo). The Sri Lankan staff members belonged to HUDEC, a local NGO affiliated with the Catholic Church of Jaffna. The HUDEC vehicle was overtaking a military vehicle when a bomb exploded. Initial reports believe the explosion came from a claymore mine attached to a tree. Based on known information, it appears the HUDEC staff members were at the wrong place at the wrong time. Condolences to friends, families and colleagues. (4/11/06) Additional information here and here.

The incident brings to light the importance of establishing policies and educating staff members to keep a safe distance away from military vehicles in areas where they are being targeted.