Protesters have clashed with police in Pottuvil over incidents linked to elephant census

Police used tear gas to disperse crowds who were throwing stones at police in Pottuvil.

An eyewitness meanwhile accused Sri Lanka security forces of shooting dead a protester.

Provincial Councillor Abdul Majid told BBC Sandeshaya that he witnessed Sri Lanka army (SLA) personnel shooting a protester as he requested them stop beating the protesters.

Protester 'shot dead'

The protesters were demanding the release of those arrested the previous night in connection with the elephant survey.

When I was running towards the army asking them to stop attacking the protesters, the one in front of me was shot Provincial Councillor Abdul Majid

“Police have called in the army as a group of protesters clashed with the police,” Mr Majid, who is also a retired senior superintendent of police (SSP), said.

“When I was running towards the army asking them to stop attacking the protesters, the one in front of me was shot,” he added.

Military and Civil Defence Force were employed by the authorities for the elephant survey that begun on Thursday.

But panic over night time attacks by “Grease Yaka” (grease devil) has struck rural areas.

Grease Yaka

Attempts by the police to ascertain that no such devil prevails seem to have failed as many villagers in the east have come to the streets to arrest night time attackers.

Protesters have also attacked the police station in Tirukkovil.

Journalist Wasantha Chandrapala reports that two people sustained injuries as police fired at the protesters. One person reported to be in a serious condition.

The police said the situation is currently under control.

Police spokesman, SSP Prishantha Jayakody told BBC Sinhala service that he was not aware of a shooting incident.

The wildlife authorities were accused by the villagers of not properly informing them of the elephant survey.

However, the wildlife director (eastern province) told BBC Sandeshaya that measures were taken to inform the public through the police and government administrative officers.