A group of about 15 young persons had gathered in close proximity to the Forward Defence Line in the general area of Nagarkovil on 6th January 2002 around 11.20 a.m.

They had left the location after about 30 minutes, the government said.

A group of five unidentified persons had taken away by force some cloths worth Rs. 4800/- from a shop in the general area of Valachchenai, about 29 kms. Northeast of Batticaloa town on 3rd January 2002 around 8.00 a.m.

The shop-keepers have however failed to identify these persons. Valachchenai Police is making inquiries.