Curfew in Kathankudi following factional clashes

A clash between two Muslim factions in Kathankudi, Batticaloa, forced police to impose a curfew last morning after at least three civilians were injured and nearly 32 houses damaged by unruly mobs, police and civilian sources said.The clashes erupted after a key Muslim political movement in Kathankudi led by Rauf Maulavi on Saturday night attacked groups opposing him, near the Bhadriya Mosque.According to civilian sources in Kathankudi, the ‘Rauf Maulavi’ faction assaulted a man, while a motorbike was also set ablaze, raising tensions in the area on Saturday night and igniting fresh clashes yesterday. Members of a Muslim faction damaged two houses belonging to the ‘Rauf Maulavi’ faction, while two other houses of the opposing faction, was also set ablaze early last morning, civilian sources said. Many houses of those who oppose the ‘Maulavi’ faction were damaged, sources added.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror SSP Batticaloa Maxi Proctor said that security was tightened last morning following the incidents but added that worshipers were free to attend mosque, despite the strict curfew which was to be lifted last evening.“36 Muslim Religious leaders discussed the issue with us and it was decided to continue the curfew till six last evening. If the situation deteriorates we are prepared to continue with the curfew further,” SSP Proctor added. Civilian sources in Kathankudi said that the town was deserted after the curfew came into effect and tension still prevailed, as police and Muslim area leaders continued discussions in an attempt to defuse the crisis.