Colombo, Sri Lanka (BBN) – United Nations officials in Sri Lanka on Wednesday deplored the placing of explosives by an unknown group on a government truck that was due to join a UN food convoy in the north of the country.

Humanitarian operations and personnel must be protected at all times, in line with international humanitarian law, the UN said in a press statement, adding that it acknowledged the actions of the government to meet this responsibility.

The UN remains committed to supporting humanitarian operations that will reach Sri Lankans living in the north’s Wanni area with vital aid, the statement added.

The convoy is now scheduled to depart in the coming days, accompanied by UN international staff, because of the effective cooperation of all involved, it noted.

BBN/SI/SS/AD-02October08-4:42 PM (BST)