Fourteen persons involved in the October 2 attack on Sri Lanka’s High Commission in New Delhi have been identified. Well informed sources told The Island that the police used video footage obtained from the Indian press to identify the suspects. Among the suspects are several criminals previously sentenced on charges of murder and extortion and General Secretary of the Puthiya Thamilagam, a political party openly aligned with the LTTE.

Sources said that the suspects were now seeking anticipatory bail at lower courts. Sources said that the suspects were unlikely to receive any relief once they come before higher courts as India was likely to take tough action against the trouble makers.

India expressed regret over the attack on the Sri Lankan High Commission.

In a statement issued shortly after the raid, a government spokesman said: "We deeply regret this unfortunate incident, which has involved an act of violence against a diplomatic mission. The law enforcement agencies have swung into action. Security around the High Commission premises has been strengthened. Action as prescribed by the law will be taken against the perpetrators of this incident." The incident took place around 3.00 p.m. Sri Lanka said that the attackers should never have been allowed to storm the High Commission. Sources said that the police could have easily thwarted the attack had they acted swiftly and decisively. (SF)