It is with profound sadness that the Management
and staff of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) have learned of the tragic
killing of Mr. Jeyaruban Gnanapragasam, an employee of NRCs shelter project
in Vavuniya.
Jeyaruban, hailing from Puthiyasinnakulam
north of Vavuniya, was shot dead by unknown perpetrators yesterday, May
15th, on his return from work around 18.00 hours. This incident took place
on the Puthiyasinnakulam Road, 7 km away from Vavuniya town.
Jeyaruban was employed by the NRC since July 2005 to date as a driver. The 22-year old Jeyaruban was an energetic colleague and a dedicated worker, and his untimely death is a shock to all NRC colleagues.
NRC is very concerned about this and other recent killings, and trusts that the relevant authorities will perform a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death of this young man. NRC is similarly concerned about the diminishing humanitarian space in Sri Lanka, and urges all parties to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.
Our thoughts and support are with everyone affected by this tragedy. Our sincerest sympathy is extended to the family of Jeyaruban.