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19 killed in Sri Lankan blast

P Mohan Das in Colombo

At least 19 people, including four Sri Lankan army soldiers, were killed when a powerful bomb exploded in eastern Batticaloa, about 350 km from here this evening, reports quoting police sources said.

Sources said 42 civilians and 21 security personnel were injured in the blast near Managalaramaya Vihara, close to the Batticaloa police station at 5.55 pm. Among those killed was the office-in-charge of the Batticaloa police station.

A large number of people had gathered at a Buddha temple near the police station to witness Vesak celebrations when the bomb went off.

Vesak full moon is the day when Lord Buddha was born and attained enlightenment. The day is celebrated all across the country and is a public holiday.

UNI

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