COLOMBO, July 27: The Norwegian team monitoring the ceasefire agreement in Sri Lanka has decided not to accompany local officials to any intercepted ship following an incident in which the Tamil Tigers kept two of the mission’s members in illegal detention on board their ship.

“These new operating procedures are aimed at ensuring the safety of SLMM (Sri lanka Monitoring Mission). However, under special circumstances, and if deemed necessary, the monitors involved may enter the intercepted vessel,” a statement said.

“The SLMM naval monitors will be thoroughly briefed by SLN (Sri Lankan navy) on the safety arrangements and safety routines on board the SLN vessel, before departure.

“Secondly, the SLN vessel will fly the SLMM flag, illuminated when required. If needed, the SLMM naval monitors will be granted access to the vessel’s communication systems for making direct contact with SLMM headquarters and/or SLMM district offices,” the statement added.