A search operation by the Sri Lankan Army, Navy and Police, targeting Tamil youths, was conducted in Verukal, Trincomalee this morning, reported BBC Tamil.
Military personnel questioned Tamil males over the age of 15 and detained several individuals.
The army claimed that they conducted the operation after a T56 rifle was found earlier, reported the BBC.
A source in Trincomalee told the Tamil Guardian that security forces indiscriminately targeted houses in the area and dragged out young males.
“The raids started at around 4am, when people were still asleep. The Tamil people here are terrified of what will happen next. The increase in army presence and militarisation is making people worry even more for their safety,” the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.