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Militarisation ramped up in Jaffna despite lifting of COVID-19 travel restrictions

The army has been heavily deployed in Jaffna to surveill the streets as restrictions on travel imposed last Friday came to end in the district today. 

The military patrolled the district supposedly to keep its streets free of crowds. This development comes immediately after travel restrictions imposed on the country were eased in the district in effect from 4 AM on Tuesday. 

Different sections of the army were deployed into action this morning at the orders of Jaffna Security Forces Commander, Priyantha Perera. 

A female army motorcycle patrol unit in place,  which was tasked with "controlling traffic in the district".

The army has placed barricades in several parts of Jaffna and detained a number of civilians and interrogated them about their purpose of coming outdoors. 

All movement except for essential needs remains banned in the district, whilst a few businesses rendering essential services are allowed to remain open. 

Jaffna police observed strict surveillance over Jaffna, alongside the army. 

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