SLMM says the the incident was a clear violation of the CFA

SLMM spokesman Helen Olaffsdottir told the BBC that the boat was fired at about 0400GMT off the LTTE-controlled coastal area.

There was a naval monitor from SLMM also on board, she said.

Sri Lanka navy has already complained the matter and SLMM is in touch with the Tamil Tigers Olaffsdottir said.

"The SLMM can't determine at this stage who fired and what the reasons were."

But the Tamil Tigers have admitted shooting at the boat.

Wrong claims

LTTE claims Sri Lanka navy fired at them first

LTTE's Trincomalee district political wing Elilan told BBC's Tamil service that rebels returned fire only after they were fired at by the naval boat which came up to 200 metres of the coast.

But the SLMM said the monitor who was on board confirmed that Sri Lanka navy did not fire at the LTTE at all.

"The LTTE's claim is wrong", Helen Olaffsdottir said.

The LTTE also claimed that Sri Lanka navy should have informed them had they wanted to patrol in an area under rebel-control.

"That is also not correct because these patrols are ongoing in Trincomalee; they have patrols every day".

No control over sea

Sri Lanka military says they'd abide by the CFA

"We have to also bear in mind that the LTTE does not control sea water according to the agreement," SLMM said.

Helen Olaffsdottir also refused Tamil Tigers' claim that the boat came up to 200 metres of the coast.

"The monitor would have stopped the navy from approaching so close as it might be seen as dangerous prevocational act."

Military spokesman Brig. Daya Ratnayake told BBC Sandeshaya that the government would abide by the Cease Fire Agreement (CFA).

"We will not be irresponsible as the LTTE."