The World - News from Aug. 17, 1989

Left-wing rebels trying to overthrow the government of Sri Lanka set fire to six official buildings during 24 hours of violence in which 21 people were killed. A government statement said 12 civilians, five security people and four rebels died in separate incidents. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s foreign minister, Ranjan Wijeratne, said India is investigating an alleged massacre of Tamils by Indian troops who are in the island nation to try to end a Tamil rebellion. Tamil rebels and residents of Valvettiturai, in northern Sri Lanka, said scores died when Indian troops went on a rampage after being ambushed Aug. 2 by rebels.