by Norman Palihawadana
Ten spectators were killed and 200 others injured in a hand-grenade explosion that occurred at the "Sri Swarna Wasanthaya" musical show held at Maligapitiya, Kurunegala on Saturday night, Kurunegala police said.

The injured were admitted to the Kurunegala and Colombo National hospitals.

Investigations revealed that a massive crowd had gathered to watch the musical show organized by "Sri FM" radio.

Many popular vocalists performed at this show. A section of the crowd was dancing to the music provided when a hand grenade had been hurled at the crowd around 1.20 a.m.

Police said the attack was the result of a private dispute between two gangs at Samanpura and Malkaduwawa.

People were trampled due to the vast crowd running amok, SSP Kurunegala Ravi Wijegunawardane said.

He said that the Government Analyst was also carrying out his investigations.

A major search operation has been launched by Kurunegala police to track down the suspects, police sources said.