16.9.2008

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A bus bomb explosion was reported near the 'Horton place', Colombo, Tuesday (16) at around 1.50p.m.

According to available information, the bomb has exploded inside a public transportation bus (SLTB) plying from - Moratuwa - Mattakkuliya (Route No:155).

No civilian fatalities were reported due to the explosion, Colombo National Hospital sources said, adding that 4 people have been admitted due to shock caused by the explosion.

Commuters are here advised to use alternative routes to avoid heavy traffic, Police said.

Passengers have immediately got-off the bus and reached safety distance after bomb fear raised of an unattended parcel inside the bus, our correspondent said citing civilian sources. "The bomb has exploded within minutes" the sources further said. "This is a heavy traffic hour and many school children are on the roads", our correspondent said adding that the alertness of the bus conductor and driver have saved the day for many, which needs special commendation.

No doubt this explosion marks another LTTE attempt to cause mayhem in the island's capital targeting innocent civilians, when it is facing fierce assaults by the security forces in the Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu districts.