No "criminal activity" behind scrap metal yard explosion: Rohana

COLOMBO (News1st): Police have ruled out "criminal activity" as the cause of the explosion at a scrap metal yard in Avissawella on Friday, citing statements made by witnesses. "It can be confirmed with the report of the Government Analyst. Further investigations are being conducted," police spokesperson Ajith Rohana said Saturday. The explosion had killed one -- a 50-year old resident of Puwakpitiya -- and injured three. "It has been revealed that he was killed in an explosion at the shop while he was cutting metal rods using a gas lamp," the spokesperson noted. He added that the Government Analyst is due to visit the scene of the incident today and that an autopsy is to be carried out into the remains of the deceased.