Sri Lanka: 15 dead as security forces corner extremists’ hideout

Fifteen people which also includes six children have lost their lives after three cornered suicide bombers blew themselves up and others were shot dead during Sri Lankan security forces' search for those wanted in the Easter attacks that killed more than 300 people.

The incident occurred at a supposedly jihadist safe house near the eastern town of Kalmunai on Friday night. As security forces cornered the space, three men set off explosives, which also killed  three women and six children. Three other men, who were also believed to be suicide bombers, were found dead outside the house. These three were allegedly shot dead.

According to a military official, Police along with extended troops were engaged in a gunbattle with those inside the house for more than an hour. However, the bodies were only recovered early Saturday after a search operation.

Acting on a tip off, the police and the army in a joint operation went in search of those responsible for the blasts in a built-up area of Kalmunai, 370 kilometres (230 miles) east of the capital.

However, the police had reported that there were no casualties among the security forces.

It may be noted that security forces in the country have upped their searches after ISIS had claimed responsibility the suicide attacks.