RIYADH, 3 June 2004 — The next of kin of the two Sri Lankans who were killed in the Alkhobar attacks have been promised substantial compensation by the men’s Saudi sponsor.
The families of both Sivasubramaniam and Chandana Pradeep Anthony will receive salaries from Saad Trading and Contracting Establishment.
In response to a request from the Sri Lankan Embassy, Eastern Province Governor Prince Muhammad ibn Fahd has given instructions for the immediate repatriation of the remains to Sri Lanka.
Saad Group Chairman Maan Al-Sanea told 300 of the company’s Sri Lankan workers at a special meeting that the next-of-kin of those who were killed would be compensated with salaries computed up to the age of retirement of each victim. Sri Lankan Ambassador Ibrahim Sahib Ansar was also present at the meeting.
Some 25 workers at the Oasis Compound submitted a letter stating that they would like to return home because of the fear of further attacks.
Jagath Fernando said that eye-witnesses would prefer to leave the Kingdom because of the shock and horror. “I feel that anything could happen at any time and I want to be with my own people at home,” he said.
Another Sri Lankan, Nalaka Kumar, said: “I would like to stay only if the company assures adequate security for staff. We travel daily by company coach from the accommodation to the worksite so we are exposed to the possibility of terrorist attacks.”
Janaka Kariyawasam said he wanted to remain in the Kingdom to earn money for his family. “Terrorism is not unique to Saudi Arabia and as law-abiding men, we have to learn to fight against it,” he said.
Sarath Bandara, who has been in the Kingdom for four years, said he was not prepared to run away from life’s challenges and problems. “I want to stay here and give my best to the company so I can help my family at home and also to help fight terrorism.
Indika Perera agreed with Bandara and said these were temporary setbacks and that one must learn to overcome them with courage and self-confidence.
