US expresses concern over Sri Lanka's moves to stifle free expression

The United States today expressed concern about recent threats to freedom of expression in Sri Lanka. Issuing a statement today the U.S. Embassy in Colombo said the Wednesday's (November 28) beating of a reporter in Jaffna, harassment by Government of Sri Lanka officials of independent media outlets, and searches without warrants of journalists all serve to stifle media freedom.
"Additionally, the Embassy is greatly concerned about reports of attacks on students in Jaffna. We call upon authorities to exercise restraint and respect peaceful demonstrations," the Embassy said. Students of the University of Jaffna clashed with the police yesterday when the police tried to stop illegal LTTE heroes day celebrations by the students at the University.