A tractor carrying ten people, including eight children, was swept away by floodwaters in Karaitivu, Batticaloa.

Speaking to the Morning, the Officer In Charge of Karaitivu Police station confirmed that two children have been rescued and are receiving medical attention.

According to him, the driver, assistant, and six children remain missing.

The police along with the Army and Navy have launched an intensive search and rescue operation in the area. 

According to reports, heavy rainfall has caused severe flooding in the surrounding area making rescue efforts difficult.