Two TMVP cadres were killed as they tried to check a man riding a bicycle

Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP) said two of their cadres were killed as they tried to inspect a man riding a bicycle in Kalawanchikudi.

The TMVP members were identified as Sivananthan Jegan, 22, and Nandakumara Uma Regan, 21.

First suicide blast

This is the first suicide bomb blast in the east since government declared re-capturing the province from the Tamil Tigers.

The man has exploded his devise as TMVP cadres, travelling in a motorcycle, have tried to check him on Batticaloa - Kalmunai road.

	Mr. Blake questioned whether elections be free as TMVP cadres carrying arms

A woman passing through the area has also sustained injuries.

Both TMVP, widely known as Karuna faction, and Sri Lanka military accused Tamil Tigers of carrying out the attack.

TMVP spokesman, Asath Maoulana, told BBC Sandeshaya that the bomber might have targeted 'a VIP' as many political leaders are currently campaigning for local elections.

The militant group recently recognised as a political party was 'trying to maintain law and order' in the run up to the elections, he added.

'VIP target'

The elections for Batticaloa Municipal Council and eight other local bodies in the district are to be held on 10 March.

President Rajapaksa's ruling coalition is contesting the election for Batticaloa MC together with the TMVP.

Many political parties, including some in the government coalition, and election monitors expressed serious concern of security situation in the east.

The Unites States earlier said that the current situation in which TMVP cadres carrying guns is not conducive to free and fair elections.