SLMM finds it necessary to rectify false reports in relation to the shooting incident that took place in Trincomalee Bay on 5 April 2005.

SLMM can confirm that a navy boat was on routine patrol in Trincomalee bay off the shore from Uppu Aru when fired at from the shore. The navy boat immediately left the area and headed back to base without returning fire.

Some of the media reported that a monitor from SLMM had been injured in the incident but those reports are completely false. SLMM stresses that no one on board the boat received injuries. We regret these false media reports as they have caused unnecessary concern both here in Sri Lanka and for family and friends of SLMM monitors that are working on the island.

SLMM would like to underline the importance of responsible journalism so that rumours and disinformation do not find their way into the media causing unnecessary confusion.

Ms. Helen Olafsdottir
Press and Information Officer
SLMM HQ, 399 Galle Road
Colombo 03
Tel: 573630
Fax 573721