Residents say protesters were chased away by the military in Jaffna

UN Human Rights Commissioner Louise Arbour who is in Sri Lanka on a fact finding mission, visited Jaffna on Friday.

Hundreds of civilians affected by the rights violations have been gathered in front of Nallur Kovil and UNHCR office in Jaffna.

Protesters chased away

However the government security forces dispersed them preventing the High Commissioner meeting them, residents said.

	Community leaders say they do not expect progress despite Arbour visit

A letter addressed to Louise Arbour was collected by the officials but there was no guarantee that it will be handed over to the UN official, they added.

The Commissioner met Government Agent and representatives of certain voluntary organisations in Jaffna.

Jaffna Bishop Thomas Saudranayagam who met the UN official said she was of the opinion she could open a special UN office or investigate abuses occurred in Jaffna only if the government makes a formal request.

Jaffna residents said they expected no progress in human rights situation despite the Commissioner's visit.