Troops have captured the LTTE's stronghold called "18 Base" (One-Eight Base) located at north of Parayakulam in Mannar front inflicting heavy damages to the enemy today, April 30.
Clashes erupted when the troops deployed in general areas Parayakulam, Karukkakulam and Kattankulam were advancing towards LTTE defence line around 5.15 am and brought the entire area where LTTE's "18 Base" located under fully security forces control following heavy fighting lasted for hours, defence sources in Mannar said.
By monitoring LTTE radio communication, it is learnt that 42 LTTE cadres were killed while another 38 suffered injuries due to this battle.
Six army soldiers suffered injuries during this gun battle and they were airlifted to the hospitals for immediate medical attention.
Sri Lanka Air Force MI24 helicopter gun ships provided aerial cover to the ground troops by destroying two identified LTTE gun positions located in general areas Karukkakulam and Chalampikulam, sources further said.
Related News >>>
11 terrorists killed, 18 wounded in clashes erupted - Mannar front
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Muhamalai attack: LTTE's defeated aim
Desperation is best seen when an organization resorts to the same abortive measure to overcome its present sorry situation. The LTTE's latest attempt to attack the Army Forward Defence in Muhamalai on Wednesday (April 23) shows nothing other than its utter desperation to resuscitate its shattering image amid ever increasing defeats it suffers at the hands of Sri Lankan Security Forces.
However, Wednesday's battle has drawn a range of interpretations, including some Anti-Sri Lankan forces that call it a great military debacle. The usual terror stooges in media are enraptured on the deaths and casualties of the security forces, calling it a great achievement of the terrorists. A website named "Lanka e- news" even went to the extent of inflating the number army deaths to mislead the public. This website unashamedly said that 143 army bodies had been taken over by undertakers following the battle. By the way, the army casualty figures led to mixed sentiments even among people who love their country, on what has really happened at the battlefront.
Against this backdrop, defence.lk contacted high-ranking military authorities to clarify the controversies surrounding the battle. Army Chief, Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka gave a frank and elucidatory debrief of the operation to media personnel at Army Headquarters last afternoon. The followings are the facts disclosed at the meeting.
Well-Prepared Defence
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Sri Lanka army holds its Forward Defence positions on three frontiers, i.e. Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil defences (see map). The Kilaly and Muhamalai defence lie adjacent to each other while a loch separates the Nagarkovil defence from the rest. The width of the Muhamalai and Kilaly Forward Defence Line (FDL) is about 8 km and the extent of the "no man's land" between these and the LTTE's first bunker line is about 700m. Sri Lanka Army 53 division holds the Kilaly front while 55 Division holds the Muhamalai front.
Defence intelligence reports based on observations made at the battlefronts during last two weeks had indicated intensified activities at the LTTE defences, alerting troops to a possible attack. Increased bunker construction, harassing fire, and artillery/mortar ranging made the troops to plan for an imminent defensive operation.
As explained by the Army Commander, the situation was so obvious that the terrorists had no option but to try again for the Jaffna peninsula to boost its dwindling confidence amid ignominious defeats in the Wanni theatre. As the countdown began for the terrorists to lose Madhu, the outfit made its third Sisyphean effort to capture Jaffna peninsula since 2006.
Offensive sans surprise
On Wednesday around 2.30 a.m., LTTE launched, what may call its first wave of attacks with heavy mortar shelling and ground attack. However, it became the first and the last wave of attack as LTTE met with an unexpected counter offensive by well-prepared soldiers.
Defensive to offensive
It is said in the art of war that victorious armies first win and then battle while defeated ones first battle and seek victory. At the Muhamalai front the army effectively defended its ground that it cannot afford to lose, and caused the terrorists to turn tail abandoning their mission. Then the battle commanders at the front took the initiative to give the maximum damage to the terrorists who were disorganized at the time, by turning the defensive to an offensive. Five battalions of 53 and 55 divisions stepped out from their defensive positions and were on the track of the enemy. Ultimately, the terrorists lost vital ground and a large number of their best fighting cadres to army.
By first light on Wednesday, Sri Lanka army infantrymen captured the LTTE's first line of defence. Soldiers of 55 Division made their way relatively easier than the soldiers of 53 Division, due to high density mine fields and booby-traps they came across on their way. By 6.30 a.m., the whole 8 km stretch of Kilaly - Muhamalai Forward Defence Line was pushed 700m ahead (see map), i.e. on the LTTE's first line of defence.
Enemy fights back
Muhamalai is the gateway to the pivotal ground of LTTE's fighting capability. The harsh sandy terrain filled with mangroves and cactus plants that may be seen as unimportant to an ordinary person, is the pathway to the Wanni heartland. To the LTTE, losing the ground up to Elephant Pass under present conditions means nothing other than that the countdown has begun for its demise. As explained by the Army Commander, the Muhamalai defence is something the LTTE would expend its best resources to defend, and it is not something unexpected by Army.
With sunrise, the terrorists started their retaliation to avoid the army moving forward. Having registered the exact location of their own defence line, which was now occupied by the Army, LTTE directed a high intensity and indirect fire at the soldiers. According to the army officials over 1000 mortar shells mostly 82 mm type was fired at troops. Also, there was an occasional RCL and artillery fire including from 130 mm and 152 mm heavy artillery weapons.
Under these circumstances, the Army started to suffer a casualty rate of about 35 to 40 per hour. By 11.30a.m., the Army tactically withdrew about 100m from the LTTE's first line and positioned themselves at best defendable ground. Within this 5 hour period, i.e. 6.30- 11.30, the Army too gave a heavy beating to the terrorists, using heavy artillery and rockets, while the ground troops valiantly held their positions giving required assistance to the indirect weapon commanders in the back. It is this unwavering commitment of the infantrymen that contributed most to the great damage caused to the enemy (see map).
The outcome
According to monitored radio transmissions, names of 119 LTTE cadres have been declared as dead in the Muhamalai battle at the time of writing this report (see list). Ground troops have confirmed at least 160 terrorists were killed or critically wounded. Further, 300 others are reported to have suffered injuries (see list).
*LTTE casualties evacuated to Government hospitals LTTE bodies reached to the different areas
Location
No.
Location No.
Kilinochchi 50+ Paranthan 40+
Mullaittivu 30+ Mallavi 25+
Mancholai 50+ Mullaittivu 35+
Mallavi 40+ Mullawali 15+
*Equal no of casualties had been evacuated to their own medical bases. Kilinochchi 30+
(Information were gained through intercepted LTTE communication and INTEL sources)
The estimated strength of LTTE in the Muhamalai defence is about 800 cadres and the radio transmissions indicated that 50% of LTTE strength was hors de combat during the battle. In the overall battle for the LTTE, Theepan, and his 2nd Muhundan were heard wailing over the radios to hold the 2nd and 3rd lines which were then requesting orders to retreat. LTTE leaders for the Muhamalai sector were Jerry and Double Alfa (AA) and for the Kilaly sector were Kumanan and Kutti. At one time one of these leaders was heard speaking to Lawrence, the terror leader for Nagarkovil front that all the cadres he had sent from Nagarkovil had perished.
Electronic Warfare cells in the Wanni theatre heard of the transporting of canters and busloads of casualties to hospitals in Kilinochchi, and Mulaithiuvu.
According to military reports, the 55 division lost 20 soldiers and 53 Division lost 60 soldiers, including 33 who were unable to merry-up with troops. Also, 352 soldiers suffered injuries out of which only 169 were airlifted to Colombo, including 109 who underwent immediate medical treatments. It was reported that among the soldiers who were taken for immediate medical treatments, over 30 were due to anti-personnel mine explosions. However, at the time of writing the number of soldiers who made ultimate sacrifices in this battle is settled at 80.
Army lost over 30 personnel weapons during the battle while no damages were caused to heavy weaponry. The mechanised infantry or tanks were not deployed in the attack though some of the armoured vehicles were used from their original locations to give covering fire.
Rationale behind the attack
Refuting claims made by certain parties that Muhamalai was a great debacle, the Army Commander explained his strategy to defeat terrorism and the reality of the battle.
According to the Commander, a veteran infantryman whose capabilities are well better known to the terrorists than many others, the number of army casualties is nowhere near what could be termed a military debacle. He explained that not all battles are cake walks and there will be times like this where the LTTE will be pushed to expend its best fighting cadre and resources but with no significant gain. Few more such attempts will bring the LTTE to its breaking point from which it would soon meet its fate, he explained. This is the army's present strategy to fight terrorism, he added.
Explaining the present situation further, the Army Chief said that LTTE has been so reluctant to spend his best fighting cadres after the fall of the East. At present, it is encountering a severe manpower shortage and the majority of the cadres deployed in the Wanni fronts have been found to be forcibly conscripted youths, sea tigers and those recruited for the tiger police, he said. The strategy would be to push the LTTE to introduce its best fighting reserve to the battlefront and to meet them with equal force, he added.
Speaking on the day of the 2nd anniversary of the failed suicide bomb blast attempt on his life, the Army Chief said that his soldiers know the reality of battle and they are well prepared to meet the enemy.
He further explained that previous strategies used were aimed at gaining the ground rather than destroying the enemy. This resulted in many military setbacks through which the LTTE built its huge image as an impregnable terrorist outfit. Now the soldiers have not only challenged the LTTE's image but also put the terrorists into an utterly desperate situation.
The Army Chief explained that there are some people who may gain some sadistic pleasure by hearing of a high rate of army casualties. These people would not be satisfied by whatever casualty figures given by army and would continue to inflate the figures to damage and belittle soldiers' sacrifices. He emphasized that "all these soldiers have died in fighting for the country fearlessly but not while running away from the enemy. Soldiers know the risk that they have to take in defeating terrorism and are ready to do it," he said. "It is a great shame that some degrade their commitment," he added.
Speaking about the enemy, the Army Chief said he would never underestimate the enemy. He said the LTTE has been fighting for over 30 years and thus was well organized and highly battle-oriented. If such an organization has been allowed to develop to its present extent, the battle to defeat it should not be expected to be one without own casualties, he said. The important fact is that the soldiers now have the necessary equipment, and high morale backed by the right political leadership to meet this challenge, he added.
Finally, the Army Commander said that during his term of office he has prepared all the battlefronts to meet this challenge. For the Jaffna front alone, the strength has been increased from 27,000 to 34,000 with an additional two reserve divisions to meet the enemy. He expressed his confidence that if the present trend continues the battle will definitely take a decisive turn before the end of this year.
Related News>>>
LTTE beaten off as troops capture defence positions, Jaffna; Over 100 terrorists killed
However, Wednesday's battle has drawn a range of interpretations, including some Anti-Sri Lankan forces that call it a great military debacle. The usual terror stooges in media are enraptured on the deaths and casualties of the security forces, calling it a great achievement of the terrorists. A website named "Lanka e- news" even went to the extent of inflating the number army deaths to mislead the public. This website unashamedly said that 143 army bodies had been taken over by undertakers following the battle. By the way, the army casualty figures led to mixed sentiments even among people who love their country, on what has really happened at the battlefront.
Against this backdrop, defence.lk contacted high-ranking military authorities to clarify the controversies surrounding the battle. Army Chief, Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka gave a frank and elucidatory debrief of the operation to media personnel at Army Headquarters last afternoon. The followings are the facts disclosed at the meeting.
Well-Prepared Defence
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Sri Lanka army holds its Forward Defence positions on three frontiers, i.e. Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil defences (see map). The Kilaly and Muhamalai defence lie adjacent to each other while a loch separates the Nagarkovil defence from the rest. The width of the Muhamalai and Kilaly Forward Defence Line (FDL) is about 8 km and the extent of the "no man's land" between these and the LTTE's first bunker line is about 700m. Sri Lanka Army 53 division holds the Kilaly front while 55 Division holds the Muhamalai front.
Defence intelligence reports based on observations made at the battlefronts during last two weeks had indicated intensified activities at the LTTE defences, alerting troops to a possible attack. Increased bunker construction, harassing fire, and artillery/mortar ranging made the troops to plan for an imminent defensive operation.
As explained by the Army Commander, the situation was so obvious that the terrorists had no option but to try again for the Jaffna peninsula to boost its dwindling confidence amid ignominious defeats in the Wanni theatre. As the countdown began for the terrorists to lose Madhu, the outfit made its third Sisyphean effort to capture Jaffna peninsula since 2006.
Offensive sans surprise
On Wednesday around 2.30 a.m., LTTE launched, what may call its first wave of attacks with heavy mortar shelling and ground attack. However, it became the first and the last wave of attack as LTTE met with an unexpected counter offensive by well-prepared soldiers.
Defensive to offensive
It is said in the art of war that victorious armies first win and then battle while defeated ones first battle and seek victory. At the Muhamalai front the army effectively defended its ground that it cannot afford to lose, and caused the terrorists to turn tail abandoning their mission. Then the battle commanders at the front took the initiative to give the maximum damage to the terrorists who were disorganized at the time, by turning the defensive to an offensive. Five battalions of 53 and 55 divisions stepped out from their defensive positions and were on the track of the enemy. Ultimately, the terrorists lost vital ground and a large number of their best fighting cadres to army.
By first light on Wednesday, Sri Lanka army infantrymen captured the LTTE's first line of defence. Soldiers of 55 Division made their way relatively easier than the soldiers of 53 Division, due to high density mine fields and booby-traps they came across on their way. By 6.30 a.m., the whole 8 km stretch of Kilaly - Muhamalai Forward Defence Line was pushed 700m ahead (see map), i.e. on the LTTE's first line of defence.
Enemy fights back
Muhamalai is the gateway to the pivotal ground of LTTE's fighting capability. The harsh sandy terrain filled with mangroves and cactus plants that may be seen as unimportant to an ordinary person, is the pathway to the Wanni heartland. To the LTTE, losing the ground up to Elephant Pass under present conditions means nothing other than that the countdown has begun for its demise. As explained by the Army Commander, the Muhamalai defence is something the LTTE would expend its best resources to defend, and it is not something unexpected by Army.
With sunrise, the terrorists started their retaliation to avoid the army moving forward. Having registered the exact location of their own defence line, which was now occupied by the Army, LTTE directed a high intensity and indirect fire at the soldiers. According to the army officials over 1000 mortar shells mostly 82 mm type was fired at troops. Also, there was an occasional RCL and artillery fire including from 130 mm and 152 mm heavy artillery weapons.
Under these circumstances, the Army started to suffer a casualty rate of about 35 to 40 per hour. By 11.30a.m., the Army tactically withdrew about 100m from the LTTE's first line and positioned themselves at best defendable ground. Within this 5 hour period, i.e. 6.30- 11.30, the Army too gave a heavy beating to the terrorists, using heavy artillery and rockets, while the ground troops valiantly held their positions giving required assistance to the indirect weapon commanders in the back. It is this unwavering commitment of the infantrymen that contributed most to the great damage caused to the enemy (see map).
The outcome
According to monitored radio transmissions, names of 119 LTTE cadres have been declared as dead in the Muhamalai battle at the time of writing this report (see list). Ground troops have confirmed at least 160 terrorists were killed or critically wounded. Further, 300 others are reported to have suffered injuries (see list).
*LTTE casualties evacuated to Government hospitals LTTE bodies reached to the different areas
Location
No.
Location No.
Kilinochchi 50+ Paranthan 40+
Mullaittivu 30+ Mallavi 25+
Mancholai 50+ Mullaittivu 35+
Mallavi 40+ Mullawali 15+
*Equal no of casualties had been evacuated to their own medical bases. Kilinochchi 30+
(Information were gained through intercepted LTTE communication and INTEL sources)
The estimated strength of LTTE in the Muhamalai defence is about 800 cadres and the radio transmissions indicated that 50% of LTTE strength was hors de combat during the battle. In the overall battle for the LTTE, Theepan, and his 2nd Muhundan were heard wailing over the radios to hold the 2nd and 3rd lines which were then requesting orders to retreat. LTTE leaders for the Muhamalai sector were Jerry and Double Alfa (AA) and for the Kilaly sector were Kumanan and Kutti. At one time one of these leaders was heard speaking to Lawrence, the terror leader for Nagarkovil front that all the cadres he had sent from Nagarkovil had perished.
Electronic Warfare cells in the Wanni theatre heard of the transporting of canters and busloads of casualties to hospitals in Kilinochchi, and Mulaithiuvu.
According to military reports, the 55 division lost 20 soldiers and 53 Division lost 60 soldiers, including 33 who were unable to merry-up with troops. Also, 352 soldiers suffered injuries out of which only 169 were airlifted to Colombo, including 109 who underwent immediate medical treatments. It was reported that among the soldiers who were taken for immediate medical treatments, over 30 were due to anti-personnel mine explosions. However, at the time of writing the number of soldiers who made ultimate sacrifices in this battle is settled at 80.
Army lost over 30 personnel weapons during the battle while no damages were caused to heavy weaponry. The mechanised infantry or tanks were not deployed in the attack though some of the armoured vehicles were used from their original locations to give covering fire.
Rationale behind the attack
Refuting claims made by certain parties that Muhamalai was a great debacle, the Army Commander explained his strategy to defeat terrorism and the reality of the battle.
According to the Commander, a veteran infantryman whose capabilities are well better known to the terrorists than many others, the number of army casualties is nowhere near what could be termed a military debacle. He explained that not all battles are cake walks and there will be times like this where the LTTE will be pushed to expend its best fighting cadre and resources but with no significant gain. Few more such attempts will bring the LTTE to its breaking point from which it would soon meet its fate, he explained. This is the army's present strategy to fight terrorism, he added.
Explaining the present situation further, the Army Chief said that LTTE has been so reluctant to spend his best fighting cadres after the fall of the East. At present, it is encountering a severe manpower shortage and the majority of the cadres deployed in the Wanni fronts have been found to be forcibly conscripted youths, sea tigers and those recruited for the tiger police, he said. The strategy would be to push the LTTE to introduce its best fighting reserve to the battlefront and to meet them with equal force, he added.
Speaking on the day of the 2nd anniversary of the failed suicide bomb blast attempt on his life, the Army Chief said that his soldiers know the reality of battle and they are well prepared to meet the enemy.
He further explained that previous strategies used were aimed at gaining the ground rather than destroying the enemy. This resulted in many military setbacks through which the LTTE built its huge image as an impregnable terrorist outfit. Now the soldiers have not only challenged the LTTE's image but also put the terrorists into an utterly desperate situation.
The Army Chief explained that there are some people who may gain some sadistic pleasure by hearing of a high rate of army casualties. These people would not be satisfied by whatever casualty figures given by army and would continue to inflate the figures to damage and belittle soldiers' sacrifices. He emphasized that "all these soldiers have died in fighting for the country fearlessly but not while running away from the enemy. Soldiers know the risk that they have to take in defeating terrorism and are ready to do it," he said. "It is a great shame that some degrade their commitment," he added.
Speaking about the enemy, the Army Chief said he would never underestimate the enemy. He said the LTTE has been fighting for over 30 years and thus was well organized and highly battle-oriented. If such an organization has been allowed to develop to its present extent, the battle to defeat it should not be expected to be one without own casualties, he said. The important fact is that the soldiers now have the necessary equipment, and high morale backed by the right political leadership to meet this challenge, he added.
Finally, the Army Commander said that during his term of office he has prepared all the battlefronts to meet this challenge. For the Jaffna front alone, the strength has been increased from 27,000 to 34,000 with an additional two reserve divisions to meet the enemy. He expressed his confidence that if the present trend continues the battle will definitely take a decisive turn before the end of this year.
Related News>>>
LTTE beaten off as troops capture defence positions, Jaffna; Over 100 terrorists killed
Iran, Lanka for global action to combat terror
Iran and Sri Lanka have condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and emphasized the need for enhanced international cooperation to eliminate this global menace following bilateral talks between the two sides, the Foreign Ministry said.
A joint statement issued at the end of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's visit to Sri Lanka said: "The Iranian side expressed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and welcomed the positive political steps taken to end the conflict through negotiations, leading to a durable settlement, acceptable to all the people of Sri Lanka.
Iranian President Dr. Ahmadinejad held wide-ranging discussions with President Mahinda Rajapaksa, attended by Ministers and senior officials of both sides. The discussions which took place in a cordial atmosphere, were detailed and substantive, covering issues of bilateral, regional and global interest.
Both Presidents, while noting with satisfaction the progress achieved in bilateral relations, stressed their firm commitment to further enhance mutual cooperation in the political, economic, trade, cultural, educational, scientific and technological fields. The discussions reaffirmed the close and friendly ties that exist between Sri Lanka and Iran.
The two Presidents briefed each other on issues of common interest and current developments in their respective countries.
The Sri Lankan side supported the peaceful use of nuclear energy by Iran, within the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The two sides confirmed the full and non-discriminatory implementation of Article IV of the NPT on peaceful nuclear co-operation. The two sides reiterated the importance of global nuclear disarmament, particularly the need for the nuclear powers to destroy their nuclear weapons, based on the decisions of the relevant international meetings.
The two sides expressed their deep concern over the violence against the Palestinian people in the Palestinian territories and recognized the inalienable rights and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people at the highest level, and will continue to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Both sides also expressed the hope that the differences among the different groups in Palestine will be resolved amicably.
The two sides, stressing the need for the consolidation of national unity and understanding, peaceful co-existence and the preservation of the stability, security and peace in Lebanon, supported initiatives among different Lebanese parties through consensus and the participation of all Lebanese political groups in the process of deciding all issues of concern, as the only way out of the current crisis in Lebanon.
Both sides emphasized the need for the preservation of the territorial integrity and unity of Iraq and the participation of all Iraqi groups in the political process and expressed their support for the efforts of the elected Iraqi government to restore security and stability in Iraq.
The two sides expressed concern over the escalation of insecurity and instability in Afghanistan, and supported, as a matter of priority, the endeavour by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for the restoration of peace and stability.
The two sides underscored the potential for expansion of bilateral economic co-operation, which would greatly strengthen the existing bonds of friendship and co-operation between the two countries and be conducive to the common progress and prosperity of the peoples of Iran and Sri Lanka, inter alia, by encouraging the private sectors of both countries to invest in each other.
Recalling the visit of President Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka to Iran in November 2007, and the Agreements and MOUs reached between the two countries in the areas of power supply and irrigation as well as the expansion of the oil refinery facility in Sri Lanka, both sides expressed their deep satisfaction at the ceremonial inauguration of the Uma Oya multi purpose development project and the Sapugaskanda oil refinery project respectively, with the assistance of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during the visit of the President of Iran to Sri Lanka.
Both sides also noted with satisfaction, the conclusion several MOUs and Agreements during the visit of the President of Iran to Sri Lanka.
Courtesy: Daily News
A joint statement issued at the end of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's visit to Sri Lanka said: "The Iranian side expressed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and welcomed the positive political steps taken to end the conflict through negotiations, leading to a durable settlement, acceptable to all the people of Sri Lanka.
Iranian President Dr. Ahmadinejad held wide-ranging discussions with President Mahinda Rajapaksa, attended by Ministers and senior officials of both sides. The discussions which took place in a cordial atmosphere, were detailed and substantive, covering issues of bilateral, regional and global interest.
Both Presidents, while noting with satisfaction the progress achieved in bilateral relations, stressed their firm commitment to further enhance mutual cooperation in the political, economic, trade, cultural, educational, scientific and technological fields. The discussions reaffirmed the close and friendly ties that exist between Sri Lanka and Iran.
The two Presidents briefed each other on issues of common interest and current developments in their respective countries.
The Sri Lankan side supported the peaceful use of nuclear energy by Iran, within the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The two sides confirmed the full and non-discriminatory implementation of Article IV of the NPT on peaceful nuclear co-operation. The two sides reiterated the importance of global nuclear disarmament, particularly the need for the nuclear powers to destroy their nuclear weapons, based on the decisions of the relevant international meetings.
The two sides expressed their deep concern over the violence against the Palestinian people in the Palestinian territories and recognized the inalienable rights and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people at the highest level, and will continue to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Both sides also expressed the hope that the differences among the different groups in Palestine will be resolved amicably.
The two sides, stressing the need for the consolidation of national unity and understanding, peaceful co-existence and the preservation of the stability, security and peace in Lebanon, supported initiatives among different Lebanese parties through consensus and the participation of all Lebanese political groups in the process of deciding all issues of concern, as the only way out of the current crisis in Lebanon.
Both sides emphasized the need for the preservation of the territorial integrity and unity of Iraq and the participation of all Iraqi groups in the political process and expressed their support for the efforts of the elected Iraqi government to restore security and stability in Iraq.
The two sides expressed concern over the escalation of insecurity and instability in Afghanistan, and supported, as a matter of priority, the endeavour by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for the restoration of peace and stability.
The two sides underscored the potential for expansion of bilateral economic co-operation, which would greatly strengthen the existing bonds of friendship and co-operation between the two countries and be conducive to the common progress and prosperity of the peoples of Iran and Sri Lanka, inter alia, by encouraging the private sectors of both countries to invest in each other.
Recalling the visit of President Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka to Iran in November 2007, and the Agreements and MOUs reached between the two countries in the areas of power supply and irrigation as well as the expansion of the oil refinery facility in Sri Lanka, both sides expressed their deep satisfaction at the ceremonial inauguration of the Uma Oya multi purpose development project and the Sapugaskanda oil refinery project respectively, with the assistance of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during the visit of the President of Iran to Sri Lanka.
Both sides also noted with satisfaction, the conclusion several MOUs and Agreements during the visit of the President of Iran to Sri Lanka.
Courtesy: Daily News
SLAF bombed at LTTE heavy gun positions - Welioya
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets raided LTTE heavy gun positions located in general areas Andankulam and Kumbulamunai this morning, April 30.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Andrew Wijesooriya speaking to deence.lk said that air attacks launched between 11.15 a.m and 11.30 am targeting LTTE gun positions located 12 and 14 Kilometres north of the security forces Forward Defence Line (FDL) in Welioya front.
Meanwhile, MI24 helicopter gun ships raided LTTE stronghold located 3.5Km ahead of security forces defence line in Mannar front around 4.00 pm, spokesperson further added.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Andrew Wijesooriya speaking to deence.lk said that air attacks launched between 11.15 a.m and 11.30 am targeting LTTE gun positions located 12 and 14 Kilometres north of the security forces Forward Defence Line (FDL) in Welioya front.
Meanwhile, MI24 helicopter gun ships raided LTTE stronghold located 3.5Km ahead of security forces defence line in Mannar front around 4.00 pm, spokesperson further added.
UNDP worker arrested with a Micro pistol - Vavuniya
An UNDP worker who is working under World Food Program (WFP) was arrested with a Micro pistol by the security forces at Irattaperiyakulam road block in Vavuniya this afternoon, April 30.
The suspect, Thiagaraja Prabhakaran, was a resident of Batticaloa and he is currently working at the UNDP Kilinochchi office, sources said. The suspect was travelling from Kilinochchi to Batticaloa when he was arrested around 12.45 p.m.
While cross-questioning, the suspect confessed that a terror agent have given this micro pistol and asked him to handover it to a person in Batticaloa. "The terrorists have promised to give him sum of 50,000.00 rupees once complete the task", he added. An initial payment, sum of 30,000.00 rupees, which had been given by the terrorist, was also apprehended.
The suspect was handed over to the Vavuniya Police for further investigations.
The suspect, Thiagaraja Prabhakaran, was a resident of Batticaloa and he is currently working at the UNDP Kilinochchi office, sources said. The suspect was travelling from Kilinochchi to Batticaloa when he was arrested around 12.45 p.m.
While cross-questioning, the suspect confessed that a terror agent have given this micro pistol and asked him to handover it to a person in Batticaloa. "The terrorists have promised to give him sum of 50,000.00 rupees once complete the task", he added. An initial payment, sum of 30,000.00 rupees, which had been given by the terrorist, was also apprehended.
The suspect was handed over to the Vavuniya Police for further investigations.
LTTE fires artillery to a civilian settlement - Welioya
LTTE terrorists have launched artillery shells indiscriminately towards a civilian settlement at Sripura in Welioya this morning, April 30.
According to the available information, terrorists have fired few artillery shells from 9.30 am. It is observed that terrorists have attacked with their heavy guns located at North West of Welioya, sources said.
A 66 year-old civilian who received injuries was admitted to the Sripura hospital immediately for medical attention, sources added.
Security forces have retaliated with heavy guns targeting LTTE gun positions, defence sources in Welioya added.
According to the available information, terrorists have fired few artillery shells from 9.30 am. It is observed that terrorists have attacked with their heavy guns located at North West of Welioya, sources said.
A 66 year-old civilian who received injuries was admitted to the Sripura hospital immediately for medical attention, sources added.
Security forces have retaliated with heavy guns targeting LTTE gun positions, defence sources in Welioya added.
Civilian info averts sabotage attempt- Bandaragama
The Bandaragama Police recovered explosives, detonators, iron nails and 2kg of ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), following precise information given by a civilian to the Police Emergency Information Unit (119) yesterday (April 29) morning at 7.10.
According to Police sources, the recovery was made when search operations were conducted in general area Veedagama in Bandaragama. A bag was found left in a by road near the 'Veda Temple' at Veedagama and following items were recovered, Bandaragama Police said.
Item Description Quantity
Gelignite slabs 10
NH4NO3 02kg
Gun powder (low explosives) 400g
Non-electrical detonators 04
Flexible wire roll (black & red)
01
Iron nuts and bolts 5kg
Iron nails 3kg
"Our applaud should go over to the vigilant civilians who made it possible to avert a possible sabotage attempt", Bandaragama Police OIC was quoted as saying.
NH4NO3 is an oxidizing agent used in explosives, including improvised explosive devices. It is also used with fuel oil mixtures and has reportedly been used for bombs in terrorist acts such as the Oklahoma City bombing (April 19, 1995).
According to Police sources, the recovery was made when search operations were conducted in general area Veedagama in Bandaragama. A bag was found left in a by road near the 'Veda Temple' at Veedagama and following items were recovered, Bandaragama Police said.
Item Description Quantity
Gelignite slabs 10
NH4NO3 02kg
Gun powder (low explosives) 400g
Non-electrical detonators 04
Flexible wire roll (black & red)
01
Iron nuts and bolts 5kg
Iron nails 3kg
"Our applaud should go over to the vigilant civilians who made it possible to avert a possible sabotage attempt", Bandaragama Police OIC was quoted as saying.
NH4NO3 is an oxidizing agent used in explosives, including improvised explosive devices. It is also used with fuel oil mixtures and has reportedly been used for bombs in terrorist acts such as the Oklahoma City bombing (April 19, 1995).
EU condemns Piliyandala bus attack
The European Union (EU) on Monday condemned the latest terror attack in Piliyandala which killed 26 people and wounded many others last Friday.
"I firmly condemn this new indiscriminate terrorist attack against innocent people," Benita Ferrero-Waldner, European Commissioner for External relations and European Neighborhood Policy, said in a statement.
The commissioner said she was "profoundly shocked" by the horrific attack on civilians in a bus.
"This is totally unacceptable and cannot be justified under any circumstances," she stressed.
"My thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones and I wish a speedy recovery to those injured in this attack," she added.
Courtesy: Xinhua
"I firmly condemn this new indiscriminate terrorist attack against innocent people," Benita Ferrero-Waldner, European Commissioner for External relations and European Neighborhood Policy, said in a statement.
The commissioner said she was "profoundly shocked" by the horrific attack on civilians in a bus.
"This is totally unacceptable and cannot be justified under any circumstances," she stressed.
"My thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones and I wish a speedy recovery to those injured in this attack," she added.
Courtesy: Xinhua
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
"Iran is advocating science and technology for human development instead of war" says President Rajapaksa
"Reservoirs are like the arteries in our body. The sustenance of our nation was due to huge reservoirs and great irrigation works like the one we are launching today(April 29). We breathe life to our nation through these reservoir projects", the President Mahinda Rajapaksa was quoted as saying during his speech delivered on the occasion of the visit of the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Sri Lanka, at Sapugaskanda.
"The Islamic people of the world have suffered immensely from war. We know that hundreds of thousands of our fraternal Muslims people live in refugee camps due to Israel - Palestinian war and other conflicts in the world.
That is not all. The inhuman sufferings the Sri Lankan Muslims have undergone due to terrorism are not seen in many other countries. It includes the massacre of Muslims when they were praying to Almighty Allah at the Kattankudi Mosque; and the eviction of several thousand Muslims from the North in just 24 hours", the President further added during his speech.
Full text of the speech made by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the occasion of the visit of the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Sri Lanka, at Sapugaskanda - April 29, 2008
Your Excellency President Mahmoud Ahmadinajad of Iran
Hon. Prime Minister,
Hon. Speaker
Hon. Ministers and Members of Parliament
The Iranian delegation led by the Hon. Foreign Minister of Iran
Hon. Governors
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Secretary to the President, Secretaries to Ministries and Public Officers
Friends,
It is a pleasure for me to address you on this occasion when with the goodwill of the historic nation of Iran the Sri Lankan nation is to receive the Uma Oya Development Project and a modern oil refinery .
Your Excellency, A reservoir is the noblest gift one could give the Sri Lankan people.
Reservoirs are like the arteries in our body. The sustenance of our nation was due to huge reservoirs and great irrigation works like the one we are launching today. We breathe life to our nation through these reservoir projects.
You know that we mentioned in the Mahinda Chinthana policy document that we would build huge multi-purpose irrigation projects such as the Deduru Oya, Rambukkan Oya, Moragahakanda and Uma Oya projects in addition to the Ten Thousand Reservoirs project. These comprise the very life of our nation.
Your Excellency,
Statistics cannot measure the utility that would be provided to our nation by a reservoir of this nature. How many crops would have been cultivated and harvests gathered through the ages, from the waters of the Parakrama Samudraya, Kala Oya and the like? As in the past, how many generations yet to be born would be served by these reservoirs? Hence, a generation cannot fix a monetary value for a project like this, just as mother's milk cannot be priced. We do not estimate this at 450 million dollars.
Friends, postponing the tasks of today top the future only results in burdening the future with the weight of the past. We cannot do that. Today we bear the responsibility of completing with speed many tasks that should have been finished in the past.
This Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery is such a task.
Modernizing this refinery with Iranian assistance will result a twofold economic benefit to the country. We will be able to refine all our needs in oil from this refinery.
We are aware that Iran supplied the most crude oil to Sri Lanka. Yet, without showing the power of oil, Iran has been in the spirit of friendship to assist us to establish a modern oil refinery.
Your Excellency
Iran and Sri Lanka have long history of close relations. Iran has been mentioned in our history and literature as 'Persia'.
There is evidence of the visits of your ancestors to our country. In Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya we have preserved buildings and religious symbols that were designed according to Persian tradition. We have written evidence about strong relations between our two countries during the time of King Voharika Tissa in AD 225.
We have Persian coins dating back to thousands of years, when we traded with the people of Persia. Then Sri Lanka had trade relations with many countries of the world. It is said that a member of a Roman trade delegation told King Voharika Tissa that Roman coins were more valuable than Persian coins. But, Mr. President, we value your nation's friendship more than coins. The unity of our peoples is worth much more.
Friends, the Islamic people of the world have suffered immensely from war. We know that hundreds of thousands of our fraternal Muslims people live in refugee camps due to Israel - Palestinian war and other conflicts in the world.
I have a good understanding of the sufferings of the Muslim world as I was the President of the Palestine Friendship Society for a long time. That is not all. The inhuman sufferings the Sri Lankan Muslims have undergone due to terrorism are not seen in many other countries. It includes the massacre of Muslims when they were praying to Almighty Allah at the Kattankudi Mosque; and the eviction of several thousand Muslims from the North in just 24 hours.
That is why I pledged at the last Presidential Elections not to allow any race to take any other race hostage. While we could build the overhead bridge at Kelaniya in 62 days, it took us only two months to resettle in their old villages the Muslims who lived for decades in refugee camps. We have not only provided electricity, roads, education and livelihoods to the people of the East but also gave them an opportunity to enjoy democracy after twenty years.
By resettling our people in their former villages we gained the same satisfaction that you achieve by safeguarding the Iranian people from war. Already we have spent Rs. 6 billion for the development of the liberated East.
We have developed the Batticaloa - Trincomalee railway line and the towns of Valachchenai and Kalmunai in such a way that the terrorists would not be able to grab them. Those who were vanquished could well raise their heads again and try to regain what they lost. It is the duty of the people to protect all these gains and defend these victories.
Friends, we should consider this Iranian gift as a contribution to the consolidation of our independence.
Thousands would find employment when the waters of Uma Oya would irrigate 25,000 acres during both seasons; when we employ 98 percent local engineering talent and build the longest trans-plain tunnel of 23 km for the project.
When Iran is meaningfully employing science and technology for human development instead of war, Sri Lanka is also moving in the same direction. We have increased computer literacy to 20 percent from very low levels. When the electricity plants of the Uma Oya Project generate 100 MW of electricity we could further raise the computer literacy in the villages.
Therefore, I say again that we consider this donation as one that would consolidate our independence.
The foreign policy of the government of Iran is peace and justice. We welcome this policy whole heartedly. This modern oil refinery is a symbol of such friendship.
Friends, a simile in Buddhist literature says that when waters from the four directions flow into the sea they have the same salty taste. Similarly, let us pray that this Uma Oya project would bring solace to all people irrespective of their racial or religious differences.
Your Excellency,
Today we have been privileged to address our glorious past under your dignified leadership and presence. As a nation and a people it is with feelings of loving friendship that we honour you and your people for this great opportunity. I trust this friendship will endure and flourish among future generations of our two lands, just as the Uma Oya which flowed steadily for thousands of years watering our land and making our fields fertile.
May the Noble Triple Gem bless you!
May Almighty Allah bless you!
Courtesy: Policy Research & Information Unit- Presidential Secretariat
"The Islamic people of the world have suffered immensely from war. We know that hundreds of thousands of our fraternal Muslims people live in refugee camps due to Israel - Palestinian war and other conflicts in the world.
That is not all. The inhuman sufferings the Sri Lankan Muslims have undergone due to terrorism are not seen in many other countries. It includes the massacre of Muslims when they were praying to Almighty Allah at the Kattankudi Mosque; and the eviction of several thousand Muslims from the North in just 24 hours", the President further added during his speech.
Full text of the speech made by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the occasion of the visit of the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Sri Lanka, at Sapugaskanda - April 29, 2008
Your Excellency President Mahmoud Ahmadinajad of Iran
Hon. Prime Minister,
Hon. Speaker
Hon. Ministers and Members of Parliament
The Iranian delegation led by the Hon. Foreign Minister of Iran
Hon. Governors
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Secretary to the President, Secretaries to Ministries and Public Officers
Friends,
It is a pleasure for me to address you on this occasion when with the goodwill of the historic nation of Iran the Sri Lankan nation is to receive the Uma Oya Development Project and a modern oil refinery .
Your Excellency, A reservoir is the noblest gift one could give the Sri Lankan people.
Reservoirs are like the arteries in our body. The sustenance of our nation was due to huge reservoirs and great irrigation works like the one we are launching today. We breathe life to our nation through these reservoir projects.
You know that we mentioned in the Mahinda Chinthana policy document that we would build huge multi-purpose irrigation projects such as the Deduru Oya, Rambukkan Oya, Moragahakanda and Uma Oya projects in addition to the Ten Thousand Reservoirs project. These comprise the very life of our nation.
Your Excellency,
Statistics cannot measure the utility that would be provided to our nation by a reservoir of this nature. How many crops would have been cultivated and harvests gathered through the ages, from the waters of the Parakrama Samudraya, Kala Oya and the like? As in the past, how many generations yet to be born would be served by these reservoirs? Hence, a generation cannot fix a monetary value for a project like this, just as mother's milk cannot be priced. We do not estimate this at 450 million dollars.
Friends, postponing the tasks of today top the future only results in burdening the future with the weight of the past. We cannot do that. Today we bear the responsibility of completing with speed many tasks that should have been finished in the past.
This Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery is such a task.
Modernizing this refinery with Iranian assistance will result a twofold economic benefit to the country. We will be able to refine all our needs in oil from this refinery.
We are aware that Iran supplied the most crude oil to Sri Lanka. Yet, without showing the power of oil, Iran has been in the spirit of friendship to assist us to establish a modern oil refinery.
Your Excellency
Iran and Sri Lanka have long history of close relations. Iran has been mentioned in our history and literature as 'Persia'.
There is evidence of the visits of your ancestors to our country. In Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya we have preserved buildings and religious symbols that were designed according to Persian tradition. We have written evidence about strong relations between our two countries during the time of King Voharika Tissa in AD 225.
We have Persian coins dating back to thousands of years, when we traded with the people of Persia. Then Sri Lanka had trade relations with many countries of the world. It is said that a member of a Roman trade delegation told King Voharika Tissa that Roman coins were more valuable than Persian coins. But, Mr. President, we value your nation's friendship more than coins. The unity of our peoples is worth much more.
Friends, the Islamic people of the world have suffered immensely from war. We know that hundreds of thousands of our fraternal Muslims people live in refugee camps due to Israel - Palestinian war and other conflicts in the world.
I have a good understanding of the sufferings of the Muslim world as I was the President of the Palestine Friendship Society for a long time. That is not all. The inhuman sufferings the Sri Lankan Muslims have undergone due to terrorism are not seen in many other countries. It includes the massacre of Muslims when they were praying to Almighty Allah at the Kattankudi Mosque; and the eviction of several thousand Muslims from the North in just 24 hours.
That is why I pledged at the last Presidential Elections not to allow any race to take any other race hostage. While we could build the overhead bridge at Kelaniya in 62 days, it took us only two months to resettle in their old villages the Muslims who lived for decades in refugee camps. We have not only provided electricity, roads, education and livelihoods to the people of the East but also gave them an opportunity to enjoy democracy after twenty years.
By resettling our people in their former villages we gained the same satisfaction that you achieve by safeguarding the Iranian people from war. Already we have spent Rs. 6 billion for the development of the liberated East.
We have developed the Batticaloa - Trincomalee railway line and the towns of Valachchenai and Kalmunai in such a way that the terrorists would not be able to grab them. Those who were vanquished could well raise their heads again and try to regain what they lost. It is the duty of the people to protect all these gains and defend these victories.
Friends, we should consider this Iranian gift as a contribution to the consolidation of our independence.
Thousands would find employment when the waters of Uma Oya would irrigate 25,000 acres during both seasons; when we employ 98 percent local engineering talent and build the longest trans-plain tunnel of 23 km for the project.
When Iran is meaningfully employing science and technology for human development instead of war, Sri Lanka is also moving in the same direction. We have increased computer literacy to 20 percent from very low levels. When the electricity plants of the Uma Oya Project generate 100 MW of electricity we could further raise the computer literacy in the villages.
Therefore, I say again that we consider this donation as one that would consolidate our independence.
The foreign policy of the government of Iran is peace and justice. We welcome this policy whole heartedly. This modern oil refinery is a symbol of such friendship.
Friends, a simile in Buddhist literature says that when waters from the four directions flow into the sea they have the same salty taste. Similarly, let us pray that this Uma Oya project would bring solace to all people irrespective of their racial or religious differences.
Your Excellency,
Today we have been privileged to address our glorious past under your dignified leadership and presence. As a nation and a people it is with feelings of loving friendship that we honour you and your people for this great opportunity. I trust this friendship will endure and flourish among future generations of our two lands, just as the Uma Oya which flowed steadily for thousands of years watering our land and making our fields fertile.
May the Noble Triple Gem bless you!
May Almighty Allah bless you!
Courtesy: Policy Research & Information Unit- Presidential Secretariat
At least 10 LTTE killed in Wanni clashes
Troops continued advances in the Wanni battle theater as troops claimed at least 10 LTTE killed and an enemy bunker line destroyed during confrontation erupted between troop and LTTE on Tuesday (April 29).
In the Mannar front, in general area Kalliankadu troops launched intensive small arms and RCL fire destroying an LTTE bunker defence at 10.40a.m., security sources said. According to ground troops 3-4 LTTE terrorists were believed either killed or injured during the attack.
Earlier, an LTTE terrorist was reported killed in a SLA sniper attack in general area Parappakandal, at around 6.45a.m. Also during a search operation conducted in general area Veppankulama troops have recovered 18 AP mines, security sources further said.
In the Vavuniya front, 2 soldiers received injuries due to an AP mine explosion in general area Kallikulama, while another soldier was reported wounded during a confrontation with LTTE North of Chinnavalayankaddu.
Meanwhile, 6 LTTE were reported killed when troops clashed with terrorists in general area North West of Thatchchanamaruthamadu.
In the Mannar front, in general area Kalliankadu troops launched intensive small arms and RCL fire destroying an LTTE bunker defence at 10.40a.m., security sources said. According to ground troops 3-4 LTTE terrorists were believed either killed or injured during the attack.
Earlier, an LTTE terrorist was reported killed in a SLA sniper attack in general area Parappakandal, at around 6.45a.m. Also during a search operation conducted in general area Veppankulama troops have recovered 18 AP mines, security sources further said.
In the Vavuniya front, 2 soldiers received injuries due to an AP mine explosion in general area Kallikulama, while another soldier was reported wounded during a confrontation with LTTE North of Chinnavalayankaddu.
Meanwhile, 6 LTTE were reported killed when troops clashed with terrorists in general area North West of Thatchchanamaruthamadu.
Three LTTE kingpins arrested in London and Wales in a dawn raid
The Police in London and Wales have arrested three kingpins who have been engaged in Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) activities banned under the ,.
The three of who two are brothers were arrested as a result of "their fund raising and procurement of acts of terrorism," the police said.
According to the police sources the three arrested, Jegatheeswaran Muralieetharan (46) , of new Town in Wales, Vithy Tharan (39) of Powys, Wales, and Murugesu Jegatheeswaran (33) of Mitcham , Surrey, of South West London, have been under subject of police investigations for a long time.
Jegatheeswaran Muraleetharan and Murugesu Jegatheeswaran are two brothers who are running an electronics company called Radio matrix involved in the manufacture of circuit boards and other electronic equipment used in communications, audio, video and other digital equipment like remote control equipment.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command were joined by officers from Dyfed Powsy Police in Wales in the raid they conducted at dawn on Tuesday when they raided two properties in London and Wales. Later they were brought to the Paddington Police where they were being questioned.
A.C.Shanthanand Goldan Lambert were initially arrested on June 21 2007 connected to their LTTE activities in London. The case against them is still pending.
The three of who two are brothers were arrested as a result of "their fund raising and procurement of acts of terrorism," the police said.
According to the police sources the three arrested, Jegatheeswaran Muralieetharan (46) , of new Town in Wales, Vithy Tharan (39) of Powys, Wales, and Murugesu Jegatheeswaran (33) of Mitcham , Surrey, of South West London, have been under subject of police investigations for a long time.
Jegatheeswaran Muraleetharan and Murugesu Jegatheeswaran are two brothers who are running an electronics company called Radio matrix involved in the manufacture of circuit boards and other electronic equipment used in communications, audio, video and other digital equipment like remote control equipment.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command were joined by officers from Dyfed Powsy Police in Wales in the raid they conducted at dawn on Tuesday when they raided two properties in London and Wales. Later they were brought to the Paddington Police where they were being questioned.
A.C.Shanthanand Goldan Lambert were initially arrested on June 21 2007 connected to their LTTE activities in London. The case against them is still pending.
Tamil youth shot dead by LTTE gunmen- Jaffna
Alleged LTTE gunmen shot dead a Tamil youth this evening (April 29), near the Railway Road in general area Kokuvil, Jaffna.
According to witnesses two motor bike riding gunmen have shot at the youth who was on his way home and fled the area immediately at around 6.45p.m.
Motive of the killing is not known and further investigations are in progress, Jaffna Police sources said.
According to witnesses two motor bike riding gunmen have shot at the youth who was on his way home and fled the area immediately at around 6.45p.m.
Motive of the killing is not known and further investigations are in progress, Jaffna Police sources said.
ACF criticism of Govt should be viewed against its own culpability -- SCOPP
The Secretariat for Coordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP) has expressed astonishment at what is calls "the effrontery of Action Against Hunger (ACF)" which claims it has no trust in a Government investigation into the massacre of 17 of its workers two years ago, and has therefore closed its Colombo office and left the country. The SCOPP media release also states the following:
The decision was taken to leave after questioning at the investigation made clear the manner in which the agency had forced its local staff, contrary to UN regulations about caring for local workers, to go into a dangerous area when some of them had even asked for leave to avoid this. Though the workers pleaded to leave the danger area soon after they had been sent in, they were forced to stay on despite a massive LTTE attack which led to days of intense fighting.
At the press conference in Colombo after the massacre was discovered, way back in August 2006, journalists questioned the role of ACF and its local and foreign executives who had made the ill- advised decisions, and asserted that they were responsible for the deaths. Requests for an open inquiry into what had happened were ignored, and the UN which was also asked to intervene in this regard did not assist to make clear the wider responsibility for the tragedy.
Subsequent efforts to raise the issue were met by wild allegations that ACF was being held responsible for the murders, while there was no response to requests that the culpability of ACF, in contravention of international norms concerning care for local staff, be examined.
Requests for reasonable compensation for the victims, whose families were awarded a nugatory proportion of the salary expatriate staff receive, have also been ignored.
Some of the anger and despair of Sri Lankans had begun to emerge during the inquiry, which may explain the hasty departure of ACF. Its pitiful attempts to blame the government inquiry, which it had observed without criticism for over a year previously, should be examined in the context of its own culpability, which has remained shrouded even though it was initially raised anxiously by journalists and human rights organisations at the time of the deaths.
The Peace Secretariat did not pursue its view that an independent inquiry into the ACF action was desirable, since it seemed reasonable to await the results of the national inquiry.
However, the current ACF stratagem of finger pointing to conceal its own role should be addressed firmly, and it is hoped those who care about the victims, Sri Lankans and others, will at least now request an independent inquiry into the matter with full compensation for the victims the release said.
Courtesy: Government Information department
The decision was taken to leave after questioning at the investigation made clear the manner in which the agency had forced its local staff, contrary to UN regulations about caring for local workers, to go into a dangerous area when some of them had even asked for leave to avoid this. Though the workers pleaded to leave the danger area soon after they had been sent in, they were forced to stay on despite a massive LTTE attack which led to days of intense fighting.
At the press conference in Colombo after the massacre was discovered, way back in August 2006, journalists questioned the role of ACF and its local and foreign executives who had made the ill- advised decisions, and asserted that they were responsible for the deaths. Requests for an open inquiry into what had happened were ignored, and the UN which was also asked to intervene in this regard did not assist to make clear the wider responsibility for the tragedy.
Subsequent efforts to raise the issue were met by wild allegations that ACF was being held responsible for the murders, while there was no response to requests that the culpability of ACF, in contravention of international norms concerning care for local staff, be examined.
Requests for reasonable compensation for the victims, whose families were awarded a nugatory proportion of the salary expatriate staff receive, have also been ignored.
Some of the anger and despair of Sri Lankans had begun to emerge during the inquiry, which may explain the hasty departure of ACF. Its pitiful attempts to blame the government inquiry, which it had observed without criticism for over a year previously, should be examined in the context of its own culpability, which has remained shrouded even though it was initially raised anxiously by journalists and human rights organisations at the time of the deaths.
The Peace Secretariat did not pursue its view that an independent inquiry into the ACF action was desirable, since it seemed reasonable to await the results of the national inquiry.
However, the current ACF stratagem of finger pointing to conceal its own role should be addressed firmly, and it is hoped those who care about the victims, Sri Lankans and others, will at least now request an independent inquiry into the matter with full compensation for the victims the release said.
Courtesy: Government Information department
Visit of Iranian President to Sri Lanka
,We are seeking justice and fair play in the world and Sri Lanka an Iran have agreed to cooperate in all spheres for the mutual benefit of each other," said Iranian President Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinajad yesterday(28).
Addressing a joint media briefing with President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat last night, the Iranian President said Iran and Sri Lanka were committed to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other, and it was very clear that cooperation in the political, economic, and cultural spheres between Sri Lanka and Iran would benefit both countries and also help in strengthening regional cooperation.
He added that since the Islamic Revolution, Iran had made great stride sin the scientific and technical spheres and was ready to share the benefits of these achievements with its friends. He said Sri Lanka and Iran had very aspirations based on previous good relations, that had grown very much today. Under the leader of Sri Lanka by President Rajapaksa there was the opportunity to expand this relationship between the two countries for the benefit of both.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa thanked Iran for the continued friendship and assistance to Sri Lanka, said the agreements signed would help Sri Lanka considerably, and mentioned the benefits to agriculture and the rural sector, especially in Moneragala and Hambantota Districts from the Uma Oya Project funded by Iran, and the doubling of Sri Lanka's crude oil refining capacity with the modernizing of the Sapugaskanda refinery with Iranian assistance.
The media briefing took place after the signing of six agreements between Iran and Sri Lanka for a range of political, economic and cultural cooperation, which was preceded by bi-lateral talks between the delegations of the two countries led by the Presidents of Sri Lanka and Iran. He said the concessionary terms provided by Iran were a great help to Sri Lanka at a time I rising oil prices win the world.
Earlier, the two presidents had one-to-one discussions, which though scheduled for 15 minutes went on for nearly 45 minutes despite the tight schedule of the Iranian President's programme.
The agreements signed last night included two MoUs on the establishment of a Political Consultative Mechanism between the two countries and Iranian Development Assistance to Sri Lanka; and agreements on Financial Assistance for the expansion and modernizing of the Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery, financial assistance the Uma Oya Project and agreement between the Mahinda Rajapaksa Sports Foundation and the Mostazafan Foundation of Iran for the development of a sports complex in Sri Lanka.
The Iranian President was received by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport last evening, ands was accorded full state honours including 21 Gun Salute by the Sri Lanka Army and a Guard of Honour by the Sri Lanka Navy.
He is due to visit the Sapugaskanda Petroleum Refinery this morning to participate in the launch of work on modernizing the refinery, and if weather permits, will visit the site of the Uma Oya Project for its ceremonial launch.
Courtesy: Policy Research & Information Unit- Presidential Secretariat
Addressing a joint media briefing with President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat last night, the Iranian President said Iran and Sri Lanka were committed to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other, and it was very clear that cooperation in the political, economic, and cultural spheres between Sri Lanka and Iran would benefit both countries and also help in strengthening regional cooperation.
He added that since the Islamic Revolution, Iran had made great stride sin the scientific and technical spheres and was ready to share the benefits of these achievements with its friends. He said Sri Lanka and Iran had very aspirations based on previous good relations, that had grown very much today. Under the leader of Sri Lanka by President Rajapaksa there was the opportunity to expand this relationship between the two countries for the benefit of both.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa thanked Iran for the continued friendship and assistance to Sri Lanka, said the agreements signed would help Sri Lanka considerably, and mentioned the benefits to agriculture and the rural sector, especially in Moneragala and Hambantota Districts from the Uma Oya Project funded by Iran, and the doubling of Sri Lanka's crude oil refining capacity with the modernizing of the Sapugaskanda refinery with Iranian assistance.
The media briefing took place after the signing of six agreements between Iran and Sri Lanka for a range of political, economic and cultural cooperation, which was preceded by bi-lateral talks between the delegations of the two countries led by the Presidents of Sri Lanka and Iran. He said the concessionary terms provided by Iran were a great help to Sri Lanka at a time I rising oil prices win the world.
Earlier, the two presidents had one-to-one discussions, which though scheduled for 15 minutes went on for nearly 45 minutes despite the tight schedule of the Iranian President's programme.
The agreements signed last night included two MoUs on the establishment of a Political Consultative Mechanism between the two countries and Iranian Development Assistance to Sri Lanka; and agreements on Financial Assistance for the expansion and modernizing of the Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery, financial assistance the Uma Oya Project and agreement between the Mahinda Rajapaksa Sports Foundation and the Mostazafan Foundation of Iran for the development of a sports complex in Sri Lanka.
The Iranian President was received by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport last evening, ands was accorded full state honours including 21 Gun Salute by the Sri Lanka Army and a Guard of Honour by the Sri Lanka Navy.
He is due to visit the Sapugaskanda Petroleum Refinery this morning to participate in the launch of work on modernizing the refinery, and if weather permits, will visit the site of the Uma Oya Project for its ceremonial launch.
Courtesy: Policy Research & Information Unit- Presidential Secretariat
IIGEP changes tune regarding Government's political will
"The IIGEP has now completely gone back on two major issues pertaining to the alleged lack of political will on the part of the government and the way in which commission proceedings take place," said the Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights, Mahinda Samarasinghe. Addressing a media briefing yesterday, Minister Samarasinghe stated that the Chairman of the International Independent Group of Eminent Persons, India's ex-Chief Justice P. N. Bhagawatti, had written to President Mahinda Rajapaksa clarifying the position taken by the IIGEP in its sixth public statement, which stated that the Sri Lankan government did not have political and institutional will to investigate 17 incidents of human rights violation in which people were killed.
In this letter IIGEP had completely changed its stance on the issue of whether or not the government has the political will to find the truth.
"The IIGEP Chairman has written this letter in response to the serious concerns expressed by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa over the IIGEP statement," said the Minister.
Attorney General C. R. de Silva said that Justice Bhagawatti had clarified the controversial statements made by the IIGEP. His clarification mentioned that the IIGEP had not accused the Sri Lankan government and what had been conveyed in the statement was the IIGEP's apprehension regarding absence of political will. IIGEP had never said there was absence of political will on the part of the government and it was merely an apprehension which was voiced by the IIGEP in view of facts before them.
In the letter to the President, IIGEP had also appreciated the good work done by the Commission. It had been doing highly valuable service and IIGEP had the best co-operation from the members of the Commission.
"The Government would like to express its gratitude to Justice Bhagawatti for the clarification and to reassure the IIGEP that the people of Sri Lanka and the international community would remain steadfast in their determination to support the Chairman and Commission in ensuring the completion of the work of the Commission of Inquiry," said the Attorney General.
Courtesy: Government Information Department
In this letter IIGEP had completely changed its stance on the issue of whether or not the government has the political will to find the truth.
"The IIGEP Chairman has written this letter in response to the serious concerns expressed by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa over the IIGEP statement," said the Minister.
Attorney General C. R. de Silva said that Justice Bhagawatti had clarified the controversial statements made by the IIGEP. His clarification mentioned that the IIGEP had not accused the Sri Lankan government and what had been conveyed in the statement was the IIGEP's apprehension regarding absence of political will. IIGEP had never said there was absence of political will on the part of the government and it was merely an apprehension which was voiced by the IIGEP in view of facts before them.
In the letter to the President, IIGEP had also appreciated the good work done by the Commission. It had been doing highly valuable service and IIGEP had the best co-operation from the members of the Commission.
"The Government would like to express its gratitude to Justice Bhagawatti for the clarification and to reassure the IIGEP that the people of Sri Lanka and the international community would remain steadfast in their determination to support the Chairman and Commission in ensuring the completion of the work of the Commission of Inquiry," said the Attorney General.
Courtesy: Government Information Department
The two Presidents warmly greet each other
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad arrived in Sri Lanka last evening on a two-day State visit.
Monday, April 28, 2008
For God's sake- The Island editorial on Madhu Liberation
It is heartening that a programme is now underway to demilitarize the Madu Church at long last. The liberation of that holy shrine from the clutches of a bunch of criminals who had turned it into an unholy fortress has brought relief not only to the Catholic community in this country but also to all Sri Lankans who treasure it as a national asset.
Those who claimed that the Madu shrine was free from the LTTE presence stand exposed for their diabolical lies. Well fortified bunkers, trenches and other tell-tale marks demonstrate that the Tigers had launched offensives against the army from the Madhu precincts in a bid to have the shrine destroyed in retaliatory fire.
Stepping into a place of worship is an enlightening experience. The army may have realised from its successful operation that took Madhu back safely that it could defeat terrorism in a similar manner. The Madhu battle also demonstrated the daunting task that a professional army is faced with in confronting a band of terrorists who enjoy unbridled freedom to achieve their objective even at the expense of a much venerated shrine. Sadly, even some priests betrayed their bias for the LTTE. A section of the media is clutching at the proverbial straw claiming that the army has taken back a hollow shrine without a hallowed statue. A similar argument was peddled when Jaffna was recaptured in 1995. It was claimed that the army had taken a ghost town and its victory was not worth its trouble. But, after sometime the forcibly evicted people returned - that forcible eviction didn't trigger an angry reaction from human rights activists in Colombo! - and Jaffna came alive. Likewise, the statue of Our Lady is bound to return to its venerated abode, sooner or later.
The Tigers have proved once again that they are no respecters of religions. They have perpetrated heinous acts of terror against places of worship and the clergy, as we pointed out on Feb. 14 in the aftermath of its shell attack on the Thallady camp. They mowed down scores of Buddhist devotees in Anuradhapura in 1985 and gunned down 33 young Buddhist monks at Arantalawa in 1987. In 1998, they bombed the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the most venerated Buddhist shrine in this country. Among the crimes the LTTE has committed against Muslims includes the massacres inside two mosques at Eravur and Kaththankudy in 1990. Hundreds of Muslims were shot and hacked to death while they were praying. Last year, the Tigers killed a kurukkal in the Eastern Province as he had blessed President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his visit to the East. This year began with a crime the LTTE committed inside a kovil in Colombo, where UNP MP T. Maheswaran was shot dead in cold blood.
Therefore, those who support, in any way, an outfit which doesn't hesitate to sacrifice anything human or divine on the altar of terrorism are making a disservice not only to this country and her people abhorring terrorism but also mankind. The LTTE is driven by the same fanatical terror as the al queda-Taliban combine that brought down the world famous Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan.
None will be safe from the LTTE being encircled in the Wanni. Prabhakaran's desperation knows no bounds. Those whom God wishes to destroy, they say, he first makes mad. He doesn't need anyone else to destroy him. He is his own enemy!
Now that the Madhu shrine has been secured, the onus is on the government to ensure its safety and preserve its sanctity. It must strictly be a demilitarized zone. Render unto God what's God's!
Those who claimed that the Madu shrine was free from the LTTE presence stand exposed for their diabolical lies. Well fortified bunkers, trenches and other tell-tale marks demonstrate that the Tigers had launched offensives against the army from the Madhu precincts in a bid to have the shrine destroyed in retaliatory fire.
Stepping into a place of worship is an enlightening experience. The army may have realised from its successful operation that took Madhu back safely that it could defeat terrorism in a similar manner. The Madhu battle also demonstrated the daunting task that a professional army is faced with in confronting a band of terrorists who enjoy unbridled freedom to achieve their objective even at the expense of a much venerated shrine. Sadly, even some priests betrayed their bias for the LTTE. A section of the media is clutching at the proverbial straw claiming that the army has taken back a hollow shrine without a hallowed statue. A similar argument was peddled when Jaffna was recaptured in 1995. It was claimed that the army had taken a ghost town and its victory was not worth its trouble. But, after sometime the forcibly evicted people returned - that forcible eviction didn't trigger an angry reaction from human rights activists in Colombo! - and Jaffna came alive. Likewise, the statue of Our Lady is bound to return to its venerated abode, sooner or later.
The Tigers have proved once again that they are no respecters of religions. They have perpetrated heinous acts of terror against places of worship and the clergy, as we pointed out on Feb. 14 in the aftermath of its shell attack on the Thallady camp. They mowed down scores of Buddhist devotees in Anuradhapura in 1985 and gunned down 33 young Buddhist monks at Arantalawa in 1987. In 1998, they bombed the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the most venerated Buddhist shrine in this country. Among the crimes the LTTE has committed against Muslims includes the massacres inside two mosques at Eravur and Kaththankudy in 1990. Hundreds of Muslims were shot and hacked to death while they were praying. Last year, the Tigers killed a kurukkal in the Eastern Province as he had blessed President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his visit to the East. This year began with a crime the LTTE committed inside a kovil in Colombo, where UNP MP T. Maheswaran was shot dead in cold blood.
Therefore, those who support, in any way, an outfit which doesn't hesitate to sacrifice anything human or divine on the altar of terrorism are making a disservice not only to this country and her people abhorring terrorism but also mankind. The LTTE is driven by the same fanatical terror as the al queda-Taliban combine that brought down the world famous Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan.
None will be safe from the LTTE being encircled in the Wanni. Prabhakaran's desperation knows no bounds. Those whom God wishes to destroy, they say, he first makes mad. He doesn't need anyone else to destroy him. He is his own enemy!
Now that the Madhu shrine has been secured, the onus is on the government to ensure its safety and preserve its sanctity. It must strictly be a demilitarized zone. Render unto God what's God's!
Farmer killed in LTTE attack - Yakavawa
A farmer was killed when LTTE terrorists exploded a claymore bomb inside a jungle area between Nikawawa and Yakawawa this evening. According to the police sources the bomb was exploded around 4.30 pm targeting the farmer who was travelling on a motorbike. The exact location is inside a jungle patch in the Manawa area, the sources added.
Police investigations are in progress
Police investigations are in progress
LTTE building complex adjacent to Iranmadhu air stripe bombed
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets attacked a building complex located adjacent to the air stripe maintained by the LTTE terrorists in Irnamdadhu jungle this morning. According to, the Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Andrew Wijesuriya, the air strike was launched around 9.45 am.
Air force sources confirmed that the buildings were inflicted with severe damages. However, casualties to the terrorists is yet be ascertained, he added.
Air force sources confirmed that the buildings were inflicted with severe damages. However, casualties to the terrorists is yet be ascertained, he added.
Wanni operation continues: LTTE cadres killed in clashes
Military reports received from northern battlefronts on Sunday (April 27) revealed that 19 terrorists had been killed and at least 8 others suffered injuries. Also, 2 solders had been killed and 9 others suffered injuries during these battles.
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, troop engaged small arms at a group of terrorists detected in the Muhamalai area last afternoon and claimed one terrorist was either killed or wounded.
Elsewhere, troops acting on civilian information uncovered a claymore mine weighing 5 kg with accessories at a cemetery at Naundil on the same day afternoon.
In the Wanni theatre of operations, troops battling on the Vavuniya front claimed that 7 terrorists were killed due to clashes erupted in the Palampiddi, Chinnavalayankaddu, and Kallikkulam areas during the day. Also, 2 soldiers were killed and another suffered inhjuries due to explosion of improvised bombs in Madhu and Vedamakilam area.
On the Mannar front, troops claimed to have killed 7 terrorists and wounded 3 others in the clashes erupted in Kallikkulam, Veppankulam and Manthai area yesterday.
On the Mannar front, troops had several clashes with the terrorists in the Andankulama, Janakapura, Kiriibbanwawa and Kokkuthuduwal area during course of the day. Troops confirmed 5 terrorists were killed and 5 others suffered injuries while 8 soldiers also sustained injuries in these clashes.
Limited operations are continuing.
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, troop engaged small arms at a group of terrorists detected in the Muhamalai area last afternoon and claimed one terrorist was either killed or wounded.
Elsewhere, troops acting on civilian information uncovered a claymore mine weighing 5 kg with accessories at a cemetery at Naundil on the same day afternoon.
In the Wanni theatre of operations, troops battling on the Vavuniya front claimed that 7 terrorists were killed due to clashes erupted in the Palampiddi, Chinnavalayankaddu, and Kallikkulam areas during the day. Also, 2 soldiers were killed and another suffered inhjuries due to explosion of improvised bombs in Madhu and Vedamakilam area.
On the Mannar front, troops claimed to have killed 7 terrorists and wounded 3 others in the clashes erupted in Kallikkulam, Veppankulam and Manthai area yesterday.
On the Mannar front, troops had several clashes with the terrorists in the Andankulama, Janakapura, Kiriibbanwawa and Kokkuthuduwal area during course of the day. Troops confirmed 5 terrorists were killed and 5 others suffered injuries while 8 soldiers also sustained injuries in these clashes.
Limited operations are continuing.
Vigilant civilians avert terrorists attack - Galgamuwa
A cowardly bloodbath planned by LTTE terrorists was foiled as vigilant civilians in the Galgamuwa town, found a bomb inside a crowded bus stand this morning. According to the police sources in the area two T-81mm mortar bombs were found trapped with a timer around 6 am. The timer had been fixed to explode the bombs around 7.30 am when some 7000 schoolchildren throng into the area, said the sources.
According to the police, "the bombs were wrapped in a brown paper sheets and placed inside a cardboard box as to show it as a gift pack. Unless for the vigilant civilians and for the efficient police officers in the area, hundreds of civilians including schoolchildren would have been killed, the sources added.
LTTE is a ruthless terrorist organization fighting for a mono ethnic separate homeland for Tamils in Sri Lanka since 1983. The outfit's most favoured target in it s cowardly attacks has been civilians, particularly the women and children. The outfit has murdered tens and thousands of innocent civilians in village massacres, bus bombings, train bombings, and suicide bomb attacks.
According to the police, "the bombs were wrapped in a brown paper sheets and placed inside a cardboard box as to show it as a gift pack. Unless for the vigilant civilians and for the efficient police officers in the area, hundreds of civilians including schoolchildren would have been killed, the sources added.
LTTE is a ruthless terrorist organization fighting for a mono ethnic separate homeland for Tamils in Sri Lanka since 1983. The outfit's most favoured target in it s cowardly attacks has been civilians, particularly the women and children. The outfit has murdered tens and thousands of innocent civilians in village massacres, bus bombings, train bombings, and suicide bomb attacks.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
SLAF raids LTTE artillery positions - Welioya
Air Force fighter jets made precision air raids at identified LTTE artillery positions located North of Welioya this evening (April 26).
According to Air Force Spokesperson, Wing Commander Andrew Wijesooriya the air sorties were launched at around 5 pm.
According to Air Force Spokesperson, Wing Commander Andrew Wijesooriya the air sorties were launched at around 5 pm.
Madhu Liberation - Daily News Editorial
The liberation of the Madhu Church precincts from the terrorists marks a watershed in the Northern war theatre. The troops trod with utmost caution in the sacred area, honouring a No Fire Zone arrangement, which the LTTE unfortunately violated. The soldiers ensured that no harm was caused to the Sacred Shrine, renowned throughout Asia.
The Army faced a formidable task vis-a-vis Madhu. The LTTE had heavily mined the area. The slightest propaganda by the troops and any damage to the Church would have sent the LTTE misinformation network into hyperdrive. It is to their credit that they managed this feat without literally falling into the traps laid by the LTTE, physically and metaphorically.
One unsolved mystery is why the Madhu Church authorities conveyed the Scared Statue of Our Lady of Madhu to another location in an LTTE-dominated area, in spite of repeated pleas by the clergy and laity to convey the statue to a Government-controlled area, so that Christians from both Sinhala and Tamil communities could pay homage to it.
We hope the priests will now return the Statue to its rightful abode, where it will be protected and venerated by all. The Government and the Army will spare no effort to preserve the sanctity of the church zone, which has seen conflict for a number of years.
It is not only the Madhu Church that has seen the ravages of conflict. The Sri Dalada Maligawa was attacked by LTTE terrorists 10 years ago.
The LTTE gunned down pilgrims in Anuradhapura in 1985. Many Buddhist places of worship in the North and East have been partially or completely destroyed. Kovils and mosques have also been affected.
It is an unwritten rule of war that places of worship are not attacked. But the LTTE has violated this rule many times. In the case of Madhu, newspapers reported how LTTE cadres virtually set up base in and around the Church. They disregarded the No Fire Zone.
Now that the Forces, and hence the Government, have regained the Madhu Church area, Christians can heave a collective sigh of relief. With the impending liberation of the entire North, pilgrims of all over Sri Lanka will soon be able to venerate this famous shrine in a free and peaceful atmosphere.
Courtesy: The Daily News
The Army faced a formidable task vis-a-vis Madhu. The LTTE had heavily mined the area. The slightest propaganda by the troops and any damage to the Church would have sent the LTTE misinformation network into hyperdrive. It is to their credit that they managed this feat without literally falling into the traps laid by the LTTE, physically and metaphorically.
One unsolved mystery is why the Madhu Church authorities conveyed the Scared Statue of Our Lady of Madhu to another location in an LTTE-dominated area, in spite of repeated pleas by the clergy and laity to convey the statue to a Government-controlled area, so that Christians from both Sinhala and Tamil communities could pay homage to it.
We hope the priests will now return the Statue to its rightful abode, where it will be protected and venerated by all. The Government and the Army will spare no effort to preserve the sanctity of the church zone, which has seen conflict for a number of years.
It is not only the Madhu Church that has seen the ravages of conflict. The Sri Dalada Maligawa was attacked by LTTE terrorists 10 years ago.
The LTTE gunned down pilgrims in Anuradhapura in 1985. Many Buddhist places of worship in the North and East have been partially or completely destroyed. Kovils and mosques have also been affected.
It is an unwritten rule of war that places of worship are not attacked. But the LTTE has violated this rule many times. In the case of Madhu, newspapers reported how LTTE cadres virtually set up base in and around the Church. They disregarded the No Fire Zone.
Now that the Forces, and hence the Government, have regained the Madhu Church area, Christians can heave a collective sigh of relief. With the impending liberation of the entire North, pilgrims of all over Sri Lanka will soon be able to venerate this famous shrine in a free and peaceful atmosphere.
Courtesy: The Daily News
Wanni advances continue: 18 LTTE killed in clashes
At least 18 LTTE were killed and similar numbers wounded as SLA infantry and armour battalions ripped through south most LTTE defences during multi-pronged assaults launched from Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya yesterday (April 25).
According to the Wanni ground sources, troops made further strides into the non-liberated Wanni area after securing the sacred Madhu shrine from LTTE, in 2 fronts from Palampiddy and Thatchchanamarathamadu. In the Mannar theatre of battle, 3 LTTE were reported killed during confrontation with SLA at general area Palampiddy, while 3 more were killed separately in general area Thatchchanamarathamadu. A soldier also received injuries in the confrontation with LTTE, security sources said.
Separately, troops clashed with LTTE killing 2 in the same area, sources further said.
Meanwhile, in the Vavuniya front 5 LTTE were reported killed during intermittent clashes erupted between troops and LTTE in general areas Veddaimurippu and Nedunakandal. 7 LTTE were also reported wounded following the confrontations in Neduankandal.
According to reports received, 5 LTTE were killed and another injured when troops clashes with LTTE in general areas Kokkuthudduval and Janakapura North in Welioya.
Meanwhile, MCNS sources said that 17 LTTE were wounded in addition to 4 soldiers in the Wanni front yesterday.
According to the Wanni ground sources, troops made further strides into the non-liberated Wanni area after securing the sacred Madhu shrine from LTTE, in 2 fronts from Palampiddy and Thatchchanamarathamadu. In the Mannar theatre of battle, 3 LTTE were reported killed during confrontation with SLA at general area Palampiddy, while 3 more were killed separately in general area Thatchchanamarathamadu. A soldier also received injuries in the confrontation with LTTE, security sources said.
Separately, troops clashed with LTTE killing 2 in the same area, sources further said.
Meanwhile, in the Vavuniya front 5 LTTE were reported killed during intermittent clashes erupted between troops and LTTE in general areas Veddaimurippu and Nedunakandal. 7 LTTE were also reported wounded following the confrontations in Neduankandal.
According to reports received, 5 LTTE were killed and another injured when troops clashes with LTTE in general areas Kokkuthudduval and Janakapura North in Welioya.
Meanwhile, MCNS sources said that 17 LTTE were wounded in addition to 4 soldiers in the Wanni front yesterday.
LTTE terrorists commit bloodbath against civilians; 26 killed and over 64 wounded - Piliyandala [Updated]
LTTE terrorists have carried out a cowardly bomb attack targeting innocent civilians who were returning home after office hours at Pliyandala this evening. According to the police sources, the bomb has been exploded inside a Ceylon Transport Board bus at Piliyandala public bus stand. 26 people including a Buddhist incumbent have been killed and over 64 people have suffered injuries, the sources added.
Most of the victims received injuries were admitted to the teaching hospital at Kalubowila while other were rushed to the Piliyandala hospital, sources added.
The explosion occurred when the bus just taken out from the stand for moving its destination, Kahapola, sources further said.
LTTE is a ruthless terrorist outfit notorious for committing crimes against innocent civilians. In its pursuit for a mono ethnic separate homeland for Tamils, the outfit has killed and maimed over tens and innocent people in routine bus bombing , train bombing, village massacres and etc.
Most of the victims received injuries were admitted to the teaching hospital at Kalubowila while other were rushed to the Piliyandala hospital, sources added.
The explosion occurred when the bus just taken out from the stand for moving its destination, Kahapola, sources further said.
LTTE is a ruthless terrorist outfit notorious for committing crimes against innocent civilians. In its pursuit for a mono ethnic separate homeland for Tamils, the outfit has killed and maimed over tens and innocent people in routine bus bombing , train bombing, village massacres and etc.
Air Force attacks LTTE base in Iranamadhu while army secures Palampiddi - Wanni
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets pounded a key LTTE base located in the Iranmadhu jungle in Kilinochchi this morning (April 25). According to the Air Force sources, the raid was launched around 9.30 am , after having verified the target through air surveillance and ground intelligence.
The base located inside the jungle patch, South East of the LTTE's runway in Irnamadu. The air force sources have confirmed accurate bombing and considerable damage to the terror base, the sources added.
Meanwhile, military sources on the Vavuniya battlefront said that advancing troops are presently securing the Palampiddi area, around 8 km North of Madhu area. Heavy clashes have been reported from the area as troops are on the track of the terrorists, the sources further said.
Reports coming from the Madhu area say that the terrorists have not caused major damages to the Church Complex before withdrawing from the area. This was mainly due to the fact that army could evict the terrorists without confronting them directly in the No War Zone. Most of the damages seemed to have caused by the sound of the LTTE artillery weapons positioned near the church, the reports said. However, there are ample evidence that the terrorists had been using the church as a terrorist base, as large number of bunkers, trenchers, mortar pits, and artillery positions found in side the church complex, the reports added.
The base located inside the jungle patch, South East of the LTTE's runway in Irnamadu. The air force sources have confirmed accurate bombing and considerable damage to the terror base, the sources added.
Meanwhile, military sources on the Vavuniya battlefront said that advancing troops are presently securing the Palampiddi area, around 8 km North of Madhu area. Heavy clashes have been reported from the area as troops are on the track of the terrorists, the sources further said.
Reports coming from the Madhu area say that the terrorists have not caused major damages to the Church Complex before withdrawing from the area. This was mainly due to the fact that army could evict the terrorists without confronting them directly in the No War Zone. Most of the damages seemed to have caused by the sound of the LTTE artillery weapons positioned near the church, the reports said. However, there are ample evidence that the terrorists had been using the church as a terrorist base, as large number of bunkers, trenchers, mortar pits, and artillery positions found in side the church complex, the reports added.
Army liberates sacred Madhu shrine from terror clutches
Sri Lanka army has liberated the sacred Madhu shrine by beating off the occupying LTTE terrorists today morning (April 25). The soldiers of 8 Sri Lanka Light Infantry reached the shrine as the terrorists beat a retreat unable to withstand the army advance.
The centuries old Catholic shrine is held sacred and respected by all Sri Lankans irrespective of religion and ethnicity. Thousands of pilgrims used to visit the shrine, especially during the church feast in August, before the terrorists took control of the area in 1999.
As LTTE terrorists unleashed their "Final War" in 2006, the church became a sanctuary for thousands of civilians who wanted to avoid their children being conscripted by the terror outfit. Later, LTTE agents acting under religious facades, evicted these civilians and unashamedly made many of them to fall prey to the terrorists.
Gradually, the terrorists almost turned the shrine into a terror base by positioning its heavy guns around the church and using it as a barrack for its cadres. Though this desecration has been carried out for last few months the fact was kept secret from the general public until the sacred statue of Our Lady of Madhu was shifted two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, Army 57 division battling against the terrorists on the Vavuniya battle front, tactically removed most of the terrorists' lines of communication to what had then become the terror stronghold inside the Madhu complex, making the occupying terrorists isolated from the rest. Army specifically resorted to this slow and painstaking tactical measure in order to avoid any military operations within the Madhu "No War Zone". Many soldiers had to sacrifice their lives and limbs in this endeavour as they refrained from any retaliation to shells launched from the vicinity of the church complex.
The mode of operandi became a success as the terrorists started to withdraw amid the increasing military pressures outside the no war zone. The LTTE bands, "Malathi", "Radha" and "Charles Anthony" withdrew from the area after shifting their heavy guns. A small LTTE element lead by a terrorist leader "Gopith" was the last known terror group to remain at the church.
At present, army troops are clearing the surroundings of the church, as there is a strong possibility that the terrorists have booby-trapped the church building before they left.
More information will follow.
The centuries old Catholic shrine is held sacred and respected by all Sri Lankans irrespective of religion and ethnicity. Thousands of pilgrims used to visit the shrine, especially during the church feast in August, before the terrorists took control of the area in 1999.
As LTTE terrorists unleashed their "Final War" in 2006, the church became a sanctuary for thousands of civilians who wanted to avoid their children being conscripted by the terror outfit. Later, LTTE agents acting under religious facades, evicted these civilians and unashamedly made many of them to fall prey to the terrorists.
Gradually, the terrorists almost turned the shrine into a terror base by positioning its heavy guns around the church and using it as a barrack for its cadres. Though this desecration has been carried out for last few months the fact was kept secret from the general public until the sacred statue of Our Lady of Madhu was shifted two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, Army 57 division battling against the terrorists on the Vavuniya battle front, tactically removed most of the terrorists' lines of communication to what had then become the terror stronghold inside the Madhu complex, making the occupying terrorists isolated from the rest. Army specifically resorted to this slow and painstaking tactical measure in order to avoid any military operations within the Madhu "No War Zone". Many soldiers had to sacrifice their lives and limbs in this endeavour as they refrained from any retaliation to shells launched from the vicinity of the church complex.
The mode of operandi became a success as the terrorists started to withdraw amid the increasing military pressures outside the no war zone. The LTTE bands, "Malathi", "Radha" and "Charles Anthony" withdrew from the area after shifting their heavy guns. A small LTTE element lead by a terrorist leader "Gopith" was the last known terror group to remain at the church.
At present, army troops are clearing the surroundings of the church, as there is a strong possibility that the terrorists have booby-trapped the church building before they left.
More information will follow.
New efforts to reach out to EU Parliamentarians
Continuing the dialogue between Sri Lanka and the European Institutions, the Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels has strengthened a programme to actively engage Members of the European Parliament (MEP) representing the Member States, as well as the respective European Political Groups.
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha held consultations with leading MEPs of the South Asia Delegation in the European Parliament, as well as MEPs who have shown interest in developments in Sri Lanka in recent times. Additionally, Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary General/Secretariat for Co-ordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP) visiting Brussels last week to participate in a dialogue between Asian and European Liberals, provided briefings also to the Conservative and Socialist groups in the European Parliament on current developments in Sri Lanka.
Prof. Wijesinha noted that the human rights situation in the country has vastly improved in recent times, with the strengthening of the democratic process especially after clearing the Eastern Province of the LTTE and the restoration of civil administration in the area. Emphasising that a political settlement was needed to overcome aspects of the present conflict, he made clear the commitment of the government to develop space for active involvement in the State and its structures for all citizens of all communities. At the same time, given the continuing intransigence of the LTTE with regard to negotiations, and the manner in which it had continuously violated the Ceasefire Agreement, he said the government was compelled to resort to military means to ensure that the LTTE understood that terrorism could not succeed. He said unfortunately it was clear that the LTTE was now hoping that sections of the international community will throw them a lifeline.
In his interactions with MEPs Ambassador Aryasinha, while appreciating the action taken by the EU to proscribe the LTTE as a terrorist organization in 2006, observed that it was imperative that all EU Member States also proceeded to take action against the front organizations of the group which acted in the guise of economic, humanitarian, religious and social bodies and were engaged in fund raising for terrorist purposes in many parts of Europe. Whilst some countries had responded with legal action, inconsistencies about this allowed LTTE terrorism to continue. Responding to concerns relating to the forthcoming GSP+ review, Ambassador Aryasinha observed that it is unfortunate that the different requirements in the GSP+ regulation are not given equal focus. Drawing attention to the numerous steps taken by the government to achieve high standards with regard to human rights, environment, labour and good governance - the stipulated criteria for the receipt of GSP+ advantages, he said this made Sri Lanka a credible trading partner for the EU. He urged MEPs to lend their voice to bringing objectivity to the GSP+ review process.
The MEPs were appreciative of the opportunity to interact and obtain current information on developments and said the Embassy should remain engaged with them on a continuous basis. It was also noted that under the proposed Lisbon Treaty, the European Parliament would gain co-determining power within the EU system and that a better understanding of developments in Sri Lanka would help MEPs make more informed decisions.
Courtesy: Embassy of Sri Lanka- Brussels
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha held consultations with leading MEPs of the South Asia Delegation in the European Parliament, as well as MEPs who have shown interest in developments in Sri Lanka in recent times. Additionally, Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary General/Secretariat for Co-ordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP) visiting Brussels last week to participate in a dialogue between Asian and European Liberals, provided briefings also to the Conservative and Socialist groups in the European Parliament on current developments in Sri Lanka.
Prof. Wijesinha noted that the human rights situation in the country has vastly improved in recent times, with the strengthening of the democratic process especially after clearing the Eastern Province of the LTTE and the restoration of civil administration in the area. Emphasising that a political settlement was needed to overcome aspects of the present conflict, he made clear the commitment of the government to develop space for active involvement in the State and its structures for all citizens of all communities. At the same time, given the continuing intransigence of the LTTE with regard to negotiations, and the manner in which it had continuously violated the Ceasefire Agreement, he said the government was compelled to resort to military means to ensure that the LTTE understood that terrorism could not succeed. He said unfortunately it was clear that the LTTE was now hoping that sections of the international community will throw them a lifeline.
In his interactions with MEPs Ambassador Aryasinha, while appreciating the action taken by the EU to proscribe the LTTE as a terrorist organization in 2006, observed that it was imperative that all EU Member States also proceeded to take action against the front organizations of the group which acted in the guise of economic, humanitarian, religious and social bodies and were engaged in fund raising for terrorist purposes in many parts of Europe. Whilst some countries had responded with legal action, inconsistencies about this allowed LTTE terrorism to continue. Responding to concerns relating to the forthcoming GSP+ review, Ambassador Aryasinha observed that it is unfortunate that the different requirements in the GSP+ regulation are not given equal focus. Drawing attention to the numerous steps taken by the government to achieve high standards with regard to human rights, environment, labour and good governance - the stipulated criteria for the receipt of GSP+ advantages, he said this made Sri Lanka a credible trading partner for the EU. He urged MEPs to lend their voice to bringing objectivity to the GSP+ review process.
The MEPs were appreciative of the opportunity to interact and obtain current information on developments and said the Embassy should remain engaged with them on a continuous basis. It was also noted that under the proposed Lisbon Treaty, the European Parliament would gain co-determining power within the EU system and that a better understanding of developments in Sri Lanka would help MEPs make more informed decisions.
Courtesy: Embassy of Sri Lanka- Brussels
EU decides to proscribe Internet use by terrorist organisations including LTTE
European Union, at a conference attended by Justice and Interior Affairs Ministers has agreed to proscribe the use of Internet by terrorist and armed outfits in the world, including the LTTE.
The decision was reached at a conference attended by Justice and Interior Affairs Ministers. It is not a secret that terrorist organisations were raising funds and carrying out their propaganda through the internet. The meeting was held in Luxembourg.
Reflecting mounting anxiety that the Internet has become a crucial tool for would-be terrorists, the agreement will make it a crime to disseminate terrorism propaganda through the Internet for recruiting, training and bomb-making purposes.
It was decided to encourage all European Union member nations to enact laws to thwart terrorists and armed groups using Internet. The Ministers were unanimous in stating the intent to put an end to rackets undertaken by terrorist organisations with the help of Internet.
The new rules are aimed at codifying terrorist crimes among countries with very different histories and experiences with terrorism, with the goal of preventing radicalization and helping police locate and arrest suspects in cross-border investigations.
The ministers said in a statement that the initiative would help "equip our legal systems across the EU with the adequate tools to bring to justice the criminals who spread violent propaganda providing terrorism tactics and instructions on how to manufacture and use bombs or explosives to provoke others to commit terrorist acts."
The agreement updates anti-terror laws passed by the European Union after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, in the United States that were aimed at preventing terrorists from exploiting loopholes in various legal systems across the Continent.
It should make it easier for police to shut down Web sites disseminating terrorist propaganda and bomb-making instructions and to identify and pursue proselytizers and recruiters. It could also help courts and administrative authorities to demand that Internet service providers remove information considered dangerous.
Courtesy: Government Information Department
The decision was reached at a conference attended by Justice and Interior Affairs Ministers. It is not a secret that terrorist organisations were raising funds and carrying out their propaganda through the internet. The meeting was held in Luxembourg.
Reflecting mounting anxiety that the Internet has become a crucial tool for would-be terrorists, the agreement will make it a crime to disseminate terrorism propaganda through the Internet for recruiting, training and bomb-making purposes.
It was decided to encourage all European Union member nations to enact laws to thwart terrorists and armed groups using Internet. The Ministers were unanimous in stating the intent to put an end to rackets undertaken by terrorist organisations with the help of Internet.
The new rules are aimed at codifying terrorist crimes among countries with very different histories and experiences with terrorism, with the goal of preventing radicalization and helping police locate and arrest suspects in cross-border investigations.
The ministers said in a statement that the initiative would help "equip our legal systems across the EU with the adequate tools to bring to justice the criminals who spread violent propaganda providing terrorism tactics and instructions on how to manufacture and use bombs or explosives to provoke others to commit terrorist acts."
The agreement updates anti-terror laws passed by the European Union after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, in the United States that were aimed at preventing terrorists from exploiting loopholes in various legal systems across the Continent.
It should make it easier for police to shut down Web sites disseminating terrorist propaganda and bomb-making instructions and to identify and pursue proselytizers and recruiters. It could also help courts and administrative authorities to demand that Internet service providers remove information considered dangerous.
Courtesy: Government Information Department
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Madhu church open to public soon
Security forces hand over shrine to Mannar Bishop:
Making another military pledge a reality, the centuries-old sacred Madhu Church, where all communities worshipped will be opened to the public soon for the annual feast. The shrine was liberated by the Security Forces from LTTE terrorists.
The sacred Madhu Shrine which was liberated from LTTE terrorists was handed over to Rev. Fr. Victor Susai, Vicar General of Mannar, who accepted it on behalf of the Bishop of Mannar yesterday.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka called upon those who removed the statue of Our Lady of Madhu to bring it back to the church.
"Those who were in charge of the statue have the responsibility of bringing it back", he said adding that the Madhu area would be declared as a security zone and pilgrims would be provided all facilities to worship at the shrine.
The Madhu shrine, where thousands of pilgrims gather during the August church feast was under the clutches of the LTTE from 1999. The shrine area later became a military base for the LTTE positioning its heavy guns around the church premises.
The LTTE used the shrine as a shield to avoid military offensives within the 'No War Zone' and the Army was compelled to refrain from attacking the terrorists because of the sacred shrine complex.
Lt. Gen. Fonseka said that the 57 division supported by the Light Infantry unit tactically forced the terrorists who occupied the shrine to withdraw but the fleeing terrorists damaged the roof of the main church and the adjoining hall.
According to Lt. Gen. Fonseka, the area has been heavily mined with anti personnel mines and booby traps and bunkers have been erected around the shrine. "The military will soon complete clearing the mines", he said.
Courtesy : Sunday Observer
Making another military pledge a reality, the centuries-old sacred Madhu Church, where all communities worshipped will be opened to the public soon for the annual feast. The shrine was liberated by the Security Forces from LTTE terrorists.
The sacred Madhu Shrine which was liberated from LTTE terrorists was handed over to Rev. Fr. Victor Susai, Vicar General of Mannar, who accepted it on behalf of the Bishop of Mannar yesterday.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka called upon those who removed the statue of Our Lady of Madhu to bring it back to the church.
"Those who were in charge of the statue have the responsibility of bringing it back", he said adding that the Madhu area would be declared as a security zone and pilgrims would be provided all facilities to worship at the shrine.
The Madhu shrine, where thousands of pilgrims gather during the August church feast was under the clutches of the LTTE from 1999. The shrine area later became a military base for the LTTE positioning its heavy guns around the church premises.
The LTTE used the shrine as a shield to avoid military offensives within the 'No War Zone' and the Army was compelled to refrain from attacking the terrorists because of the sacred shrine complex.
Lt. Gen. Fonseka said that the 57 division supported by the Light Infantry unit tactically forced the terrorists who occupied the shrine to withdraw but the fleeing terrorists damaged the roof of the main church and the adjoining hall.
According to Lt. Gen. Fonseka, the area has been heavily mined with anti personnel mines and booby traps and bunkers have been erected around the shrine. "The military will soon complete clearing the mines", he said.
Courtesy : Sunday Observer
Muhamalai attack: LTTE's defeated aim
Desperation is best seen when an organization resorts to the same abortive measure to overcome its present sorry situation. The LTTE's latest attempt to attack the Army Forward Defence in Muhamalai on Wednesday (April 23) shows nothing other than its utter desperation to resuscitate its shattering image amid ever increasing defeats it suffers at the hands of Sri Lankan Security Forces.
However, Wednesday's battle has drawn a range of interpretations, including some Anti-Sri Lankan forces that call it a great military debacle. The usual terror stooges in media are enraptured on the deaths and casualties of the security forces, calling it a great achievement of the terrorists. A website named "Lanka e- news" even went to the extent of inflating the number army deaths to mislead the public. This website unashamedly said that 143 army bodies had been taken over by undertakers following the battle. By the way, the army casualty figures led to mixed sentiments even among people who love their country, on what has really happened at the battlefront.
Against this backdrop, defence.lk contacted high-ranking military authorities to clarify the controversies surrounding the battle. Army Chief, Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka gave a frank and elucidatory debrief of the operation to media personnel at Army Headquarters last afternoon. The followings are the facts disclosed at the meeting.
Well-Prepared Defence
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Sri Lanka army holds its Forward Defence positions on three frontiers,i.e. Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil defences (see map). The Kilaly and Muhamalai defence lie adjacent to each other while a loch separates the Nagarkovil defence from the rest. The width of the Muhamalai and Kilaly Forward Defence Line (FDL) is about 8 km and the extent of the "no man's land" between these and the LTTE's first bunker line is about 700m. Sri Lanka Army 53 division holds the Kilaly front while 55 Division holds the Muhamalai front.
Defence intelligence reports based on observations made at the battlefronts during last two weeks had indicated intensified activities at the LTTE defences, alerting troops to a possible attack. Increased bunker construction, harassing fire, and artillery/mortar ranging made the troops to plan for an imminent defensive operation.
As explained by the Army Commander, the situation was so obvious that the terrorists had no option but to try again for the Jaffna peninsula to boost its dwindling confidence amid ignominious defeats in the Wanni theatre. As the countdown began for the terrorists to lose Madhu, the outfit made its third Sisyphean effort to capture Jaffna peninsula since 2006.
Offensive sans surprise
On Wednesday around 2.30 a.m., LTTE launched, what may call its first wave of attacks with heavy mortar shelling and ground attack. However, it became the first and the last wave of attack as LTTE met with an unexpected counter offensive by well-prepared soldiers.
Defensive to offensive
It is said in the art of war that victorious armies first win and then battle while defeated ones first battle and seek victory. At the Muhamalai front the army effectively defended its ground that it cannot afford to lose, and caused the terrorists to turn tail abandoning their mission. Then the battle commanders at the front took the initiative to give the maximum damage to the terrorists who were disorganized at the time, by turning the defensive to an offensive. Five battalions of 53 and 55 divisions stepped out from their defensive positions and were on the track of the enemy. Ultimately, the terrorists lost vital ground and a large number of their best fighting cadres to army.
By first light on Wednesday, Sri Lanka army infantrymen captured the LTTE's first line of defence. Soldiers of 55Division made their way relatively easier than the soldiers of 53 Division, due to high density mine fields and booby-traps they came across on their way. By 6.30 a.m., the whole 8 km stretch of Kilaly - Muhamalai Forward Defence Line was pushed 700m ahead (see map), i.e. on the LTTE's first line of defence.
Enemy fights back
Muhamalai is the gateway to the pivotal ground of LTTE's fighting capability. The harsh sandy terrain filled with mangroves and cactus plants that may be seen as unimportant to an ordinary person, is the pathway to the Wanni heartland. To the LTTE, losing the ground up to Elephant Pass under present conditions means nothing other than that the countdown has begun for its demise. As explained by the Army Commander, the Muhamalai defence is something the LTTE would expend its best resources to defend, and it is not something unexpected by Army.
With sunrise, the terrorists started their retaliation to avoid the army moving forward. Having registered the exact location of their own defence line, which was now occupied by the Army, LTTE directed a high intensity and indirect fire at the soldiers. According to the army officials over 1000 mortar shells mostly 82 mm type was fired at troops. Also, there was an occasional RCL and artillery fire including from 130 mm and 152 mm heavy artillery weapons.
Under these circumstances, the Army started to suffer a casualty rate of about 35 to 40 per hour. By11.30a.m., the Army tactically withdrew about 100m from the LTTE's first line and positioned themselves at best defendable ground. Within this 5 hour period, i.e. 6.30- 11.30, the Army too gave a heavy beating to the terrorists, using heavy artillery and rockets, while the ground troops valiantly held their positions giving required assistance to the indirect weapon commanders in the back. It is this unwavering commitment of the infantrymen that contributed most to the great damage caused to the enemy (see map).
The outcome
According to monitored radio transmissions, names of 119 LTTE cadres have been declared as dead in the Muhamalai battle at the time of writing this report (see list). Ground troops have confirmed at least 160 terrorists were killed or critically wounded. Further, 300 others are reported to have suffered injuries (see list).
The estimated strength of LTTE in the Muhamalai defence is about 800 cadres and the radio transmissions indicated that 50% of LTTE strength was hors de combat during the battle. In the overall battle for the LTTE, Theepan, and his 2nd Muhundan were heard wailing over the radios to hold the 2nd and 3rd lines which were then requesting orders to retreat. LTTE leaders for the Muhamalai sector were Jerry and Double Alfa (AA) and for the Kilaly sector were Kumanan and Kutti. At one time one of these leaders was heard speaking to Lawrence, the terror leader for Nagarkovil front that all the cadres he had sent from Nagarkovil had perished.
Electronic Warfare cells in the Wanni theatre heard of the transporting of canters and busloads of casualties to hospitals in Kilinochchi, and Mulaithiuvu.
According to military reports, the 55 division lost 20 soldiers and 53 Division lost 60 soldiers, including 33 who were unable to merry-up with troops. Also, 352 soldiers suffered injuries out of which only 169 were airlifted to Colombo, including 109 who underwent immediate medical treatments. It was reported that among the soldiers who were taken for immediate medical treatments, over 30 were due to anti-personnel mine explosions. However, at the time of writing the number of soldiers who made ultimate sacrifices in this battle is settled at 80.
Army lost over 30 personnel weapons during the battle while no damages were caused to heavy weaponry. The mechanised infantry or tanks were not deployed in the attack though some of the armoured vehicles were used from their original locations to give covering fire.
Rationale behind the attack
Refuting claims made by certain parties that Muhamalai was a great debacle, the Army Commander explained his strategy to defeat terrorism and the reality of the battle.
According to the Commander, a veteran infantryman whose capabilities are well better known to the terrorists than many others, the number of army casualties is nowhere near what could be termed a military debacle. He explained that not all battles are cake walks and there will be times like this where the LTTE will be pushed to expend its best fighting cadre and resources but with no significant gain. Few more such attempts will bring the LTTE to its breaking point from which it would soon meet its fate, he explained. This is the army's present strategy to fight terrorism, he added.
Explaining the present situation further, the Army Chief said that LTTE has been so reluctant to spend his best fighting cadres after the fall of the East. At present, it is encountering a severe manpower shortage and the majority of the cadres deployed in the Wanni fronts have been found to be forcibly conscripted youths, sea tigers and those recruited for the tiger police, he said. The strategy would be to push the LTTE to introduce its best fighting reserve to the battlefront and to meet them with equal force, he added.
Speaking on the day of the 2nd anniversary of the failed suicide bomb blast attempt on his life, the Army Chief said that his soldiers know the reality of battle and they are well prepared to meet the enemy.
He further explained that previous strategies used were aimed at gaining the ground rather than destroying the enemy. This resulted in many military setbacks through which the LTTE built its huge image as an impregnable terrorist outfit. Now the soldiers have not only challenged the LTTE's image but also put the terrorists into an utterly desperate situation.
The Army Chief explained that there are some people who may gain some sadistic pleasure by hearing of a high rate of army casualties. These people would not be satisfied by whatever casualty figures given by army and would continue to inflate the figures to damage and belittle soldiers' sacrifices. He emphasized that "all these soldiers have died in fighting for the country fearlessly but not while running away from the enemy. Soldiers know the risk that they have to take in defeating terrorism and are ready to do it," he said. "It is a great shame that some degrade their commitment," he added.
Speaking about the enemy, the Army Chief said he would never underestimate the enemy. He said the LTTE has been fighting for over 30 years and thus was well organized and highly battle-oriented. If such an organization has been allowed to develop to its present extent, the battle to defeat it should not be expected to be one without own casualties, he said. The important fact is that the soldiers now have the necessary equipment, and high morale backed by the right political leadership to meet this challenge, he added.
Finally, the Army Commander said that during his term of office he has prepared all the battlefronts to meet this challenge. For the Jaffna front alone, the strength has been increased from 27,000 to 34,000 with an additional two reserve divisions to meet the enemy. He expressed his confidence that if the present trend continues the battle will definitely take a decisive turn before the end of this year.
However, Wednesday's battle has drawn a range of interpretations, including some Anti-Sri Lankan forces that call it a great military debacle. The usual terror stooges in media are enraptured on the deaths and casualties of the security forces, calling it a great achievement of the terrorists. A website named "Lanka e- news" even went to the extent of inflating the number army deaths to mislead the public. This website unashamedly said that 143 army bodies had been taken over by undertakers following the battle. By the way, the army casualty figures led to mixed sentiments even among people who love their country, on what has really happened at the battlefront.
Against this backdrop, defence.lk contacted high-ranking military authorities to clarify the controversies surrounding the battle. Army Chief, Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka gave a frank and elucidatory debrief of the operation to media personnel at Army Headquarters last afternoon. The followings are the facts disclosed at the meeting.
Well-Prepared Defence
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Sri Lanka army holds its Forward Defence positions on three frontiers,i.e. Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil defences (see map). The Kilaly and Muhamalai defence lie adjacent to each other while a loch separates the Nagarkovil defence from the rest. The width of the Muhamalai and Kilaly Forward Defence Line (FDL) is about 8 km and the extent of the "no man's land" between these and the LTTE's first bunker line is about 700m. Sri Lanka Army 53 division holds the Kilaly front while 55 Division holds the Muhamalai front.
Defence intelligence reports based on observations made at the battlefronts during last two weeks had indicated intensified activities at the LTTE defences, alerting troops to a possible attack. Increased bunker construction, harassing fire, and artillery/mortar ranging made the troops to plan for an imminent defensive operation.
As explained by the Army Commander, the situation was so obvious that the terrorists had no option but to try again for the Jaffna peninsula to boost its dwindling confidence amid ignominious defeats in the Wanni theatre. As the countdown began for the terrorists to lose Madhu, the outfit made its third Sisyphean effort to capture Jaffna peninsula since 2006.
Offensive sans surprise
On Wednesday around 2.30 a.m., LTTE launched, what may call its first wave of attacks with heavy mortar shelling and ground attack. However, it became the first and the last wave of attack as LTTE met with an unexpected counter offensive by well-prepared soldiers.
Defensive to offensive
It is said in the art of war that victorious armies first win and then battle while defeated ones first battle and seek victory. At the Muhamalai front the army effectively defended its ground that it cannot afford to lose, and caused the terrorists to turn tail abandoning their mission. Then the battle commanders at the front took the initiative to give the maximum damage to the terrorists who were disorganized at the time, by turning the defensive to an offensive. Five battalions of 53 and 55 divisions stepped out from their defensive positions and were on the track of the enemy. Ultimately, the terrorists lost vital ground and a large number of their best fighting cadres to army.
By first light on Wednesday, Sri Lanka army infantrymen captured the LTTE's first line of defence. Soldiers of 55Division made their way relatively easier than the soldiers of 53 Division, due to high density mine fields and booby-traps they came across on their way. By 6.30 a.m., the whole 8 km stretch of Kilaly - Muhamalai Forward Defence Line was pushed 700m ahead (see map), i.e. on the LTTE's first line of defence.
Enemy fights back
Muhamalai is the gateway to the pivotal ground of LTTE's fighting capability. The harsh sandy terrain filled with mangroves and cactus plants that may be seen as unimportant to an ordinary person, is the pathway to the Wanni heartland. To the LTTE, losing the ground up to Elephant Pass under present conditions means nothing other than that the countdown has begun for its demise. As explained by the Army Commander, the Muhamalai defence is something the LTTE would expend its best resources to defend, and it is not something unexpected by Army.
With sunrise, the terrorists started their retaliation to avoid the army moving forward. Having registered the exact location of their own defence line, which was now occupied by the Army, LTTE directed a high intensity and indirect fire at the soldiers. According to the army officials over 1000 mortar shells mostly 82 mm type was fired at troops. Also, there was an occasional RCL and artillery fire including from 130 mm and 152 mm heavy artillery weapons.
Under these circumstances, the Army started to suffer a casualty rate of about 35 to 40 per hour. By11.30a.m., the Army tactically withdrew about 100m from the LTTE's first line and positioned themselves at best defendable ground. Within this 5 hour period, i.e. 6.30- 11.30, the Army too gave a heavy beating to the terrorists, using heavy artillery and rockets, while the ground troops valiantly held their positions giving required assistance to the indirect weapon commanders in the back. It is this unwavering commitment of the infantrymen that contributed most to the great damage caused to the enemy (see map).
The outcome
According to monitored radio transmissions, names of 119 LTTE cadres have been declared as dead in the Muhamalai battle at the time of writing this report (see list). Ground troops have confirmed at least 160 terrorists were killed or critically wounded. Further, 300 others are reported to have suffered injuries (see list).
The estimated strength of LTTE in the Muhamalai defence is about 800 cadres and the radio transmissions indicated that 50% of LTTE strength was hors de combat during the battle. In the overall battle for the LTTE, Theepan, and his 2nd Muhundan were heard wailing over the radios to hold the 2nd and 3rd lines which were then requesting orders to retreat. LTTE leaders for the Muhamalai sector were Jerry and Double Alfa (AA) and for the Kilaly sector were Kumanan and Kutti. At one time one of these leaders was heard speaking to Lawrence, the terror leader for Nagarkovil front that all the cadres he had sent from Nagarkovil had perished.
Electronic Warfare cells in the Wanni theatre heard of the transporting of canters and busloads of casualties to hospitals in Kilinochchi, and Mulaithiuvu.
According to military reports, the 55 division lost 20 soldiers and 53 Division lost 60 soldiers, including 33 who were unable to merry-up with troops. Also, 352 soldiers suffered injuries out of which only 169 were airlifted to Colombo, including 109 who underwent immediate medical treatments. It was reported that among the soldiers who were taken for immediate medical treatments, over 30 were due to anti-personnel mine explosions. However, at the time of writing the number of soldiers who made ultimate sacrifices in this battle is settled at 80.
Army lost over 30 personnel weapons during the battle while no damages were caused to heavy weaponry. The mechanised infantry or tanks were not deployed in the attack though some of the armoured vehicles were used from their original locations to give covering fire.
Rationale behind the attack
Refuting claims made by certain parties that Muhamalai was a great debacle, the Army Commander explained his strategy to defeat terrorism and the reality of the battle.
According to the Commander, a veteran infantryman whose capabilities are well better known to the terrorists than many others, the number of army casualties is nowhere near what could be termed a military debacle. He explained that not all battles are cake walks and there will be times like this where the LTTE will be pushed to expend its best fighting cadre and resources but with no significant gain. Few more such attempts will bring the LTTE to its breaking point from which it would soon meet its fate, he explained. This is the army's present strategy to fight terrorism, he added.
Explaining the present situation further, the Army Chief said that LTTE has been so reluctant to spend his best fighting cadres after the fall of the East. At present, it is encountering a severe manpower shortage and the majority of the cadres deployed in the Wanni fronts have been found to be forcibly conscripted youths, sea tigers and those recruited for the tiger police, he said. The strategy would be to push the LTTE to introduce its best fighting reserve to the battlefront and to meet them with equal force, he added.
Speaking on the day of the 2nd anniversary of the failed suicide bomb blast attempt on his life, the Army Chief said that his soldiers know the reality of battle and they are well prepared to meet the enemy.
He further explained that previous strategies used were aimed at gaining the ground rather than destroying the enemy. This resulted in many military setbacks through which the LTTE built its huge image as an impregnable terrorist outfit. Now the soldiers have not only challenged the LTTE's image but also put the terrorists into an utterly desperate situation.
The Army Chief explained that there are some people who may gain some sadistic pleasure by hearing of a high rate of army casualties. These people would not be satisfied by whatever casualty figures given by army and would continue to inflate the figures to damage and belittle soldiers' sacrifices. He emphasized that "all these soldiers have died in fighting for the country fearlessly but not while running away from the enemy. Soldiers know the risk that they have to take in defeating terrorism and are ready to do it," he said. "It is a great shame that some degrade their commitment," he added.
Speaking about the enemy, the Army Chief said he would never underestimate the enemy. He said the LTTE has been fighting for over 30 years and thus was well organized and highly battle-oriented. If such an organization has been allowed to develop to its present extent, the battle to defeat it should not be expected to be one without own casualties, he said. The important fact is that the soldiers now have the necessary equipment, and high morale backed by the right political leadership to meet this challenge, he added.
Finally, the Army Commander said that during his term of office he has prepared all the battlefronts to meet this challenge. For the Jaffna front alone, the strength has been increased from 27,000 to 34,000 with an additional two reserve divisions to meet the enemy. He expressed his confidence that if the present trend continues the battle will definitely take a decisive turn before the end of this year.
LTTE is the Most Dangerous Terrorist Outfit in the World - FBI
The United States' top intelligence agency, Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) says that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is the most dangerous and deadly extremist organization in the world. The official website of FBI in its tops story yesterday said that LTTE is far more dangerous terrorists outfit than al Queda, Hezbullah or even HAMAS. Following is the full text of the article published on the website, www.fbi.gov
TAMING THE TAMIL TIGERS
From Here in the U.S.
As terrorist groups go, it has quite a r‚sum‚:
* Perfected the use of suicide bombers;
* Invented the suicide belt;
* Pioneered the use of women in suicide attacks;
* Murdered some 4,000 people in the past two years alone; and
* Assassinated two world leaders-the only terrorist organization to do so.
No, it's not al Qaeda or Hezbollah or even HAMAS. The group is called the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) or the Tamil Tigers for short.
Needless to say, the Tamil Tigers are among the most dangerous and deadly extremists in the world. For more than three decades, the group has launched a campaign of violence and bloodshed in Sri Lanka, the island republic off the southern coast of India.
Its ultimate goal: to seize control of the country from the Sinhalese ethnic majority and create an independent Tamil state. Along the way, it has launched suicide attacks, assassinated politicians (including a government minister this week and even the Sri Lankan President), taken hostages, and committed all of kinds of crimes to finance its operations. The resulting civil war has taken the lives of nearly 70,000 Sri Lankans on both sides of the conflict since 1983 alone.
Why should you care? Certainly because of the suffering and bloodshed that the Tamil Tigers have caused. And because its ruthless tactics have inspired terrorist networks worldwide, including al Qaeda in Iraq. But also because the group has placed operatives right here in our own backyard, discreetly raising money to fund its bloody terrorist campaign overseas, including purchases of weapons and explosives.
The U.S. government has designated the Tigers a foreign terrorist organization, so their activities here are illegal. And we're determined to stop them, using the full range of our investigative and intelligence capabilities.
In April, for example, we struck an important blow when our Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York arrested the alleged U.S. director of the Tigers. The man supposedly held several fundraising events at a church and various public schools in Queens and in northern New Jersey in 2004. He is also accused of arranging high-level meetings between the group's leaders and U.S. supporters.
We've also arrested another 11 Tamil Tiger-related suspects in the New York City region. And in Baltimore, following a multi-agency investigation, a pair of Indonesian men pled guilty and were sentenced recently for working with others to export surface to air missiles, state-of-the-art firearms, machine guns, and night vision goggles to the Tigers in Sri Lanka.
You can help by being careful with your donations. Like other terrorists, the Tigers have raised funds under a variety of cover organizations, often by posing as charities. A great deal of money, for example, was raised for the Tigers following the 2004 tsunami that devastated Sri Lanka and many other countries.
Courtesy: FBI
TAMING THE TAMIL TIGERS
From Here in the U.S.
As terrorist groups go, it has quite a r‚sum‚:
* Perfected the use of suicide bombers;
* Invented the suicide belt;
* Pioneered the use of women in suicide attacks;
* Murdered some 4,000 people in the past two years alone; and
* Assassinated two world leaders-the only terrorist organization to do so.
No, it's not al Qaeda or Hezbollah or even HAMAS. The group is called the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) or the Tamil Tigers for short.
Needless to say, the Tamil Tigers are among the most dangerous and deadly extremists in the world. For more than three decades, the group has launched a campaign of violence and bloodshed in Sri Lanka, the island republic off the southern coast of India.
Its ultimate goal: to seize control of the country from the Sinhalese ethnic majority and create an independent Tamil state. Along the way, it has launched suicide attacks, assassinated politicians (including a government minister this week and even the Sri Lankan President), taken hostages, and committed all of kinds of crimes to finance its operations. The resulting civil war has taken the lives of nearly 70,000 Sri Lankans on both sides of the conflict since 1983 alone.
Why should you care? Certainly because of the suffering and bloodshed that the Tamil Tigers have caused. And because its ruthless tactics have inspired terrorist networks worldwide, including al Qaeda in Iraq. But also because the group has placed operatives right here in our own backyard, discreetly raising money to fund its bloody terrorist campaign overseas, including purchases of weapons and explosives.
The U.S. government has designated the Tigers a foreign terrorist organization, so their activities here are illegal. And we're determined to stop them, using the full range of our investigative and intelligence capabilities.
In April, for example, we struck an important blow when our Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York arrested the alleged U.S. director of the Tigers. The man supposedly held several fundraising events at a church and various public schools in Queens and in northern New Jersey in 2004. He is also accused of arranging high-level meetings between the group's leaders and U.S. supporters.
We've also arrested another 11 Tamil Tiger-related suspects in the New York City region. And in Baltimore, following a multi-agency investigation, a pair of Indonesian men pled guilty and were sentenced recently for working with others to export surface to air missiles, state-of-the-art firearms, machine guns, and night vision goggles to the Tigers in Sri Lanka.
You can help by being careful with your donations. Like other terrorists, the Tigers have raised funds under a variety of cover organizations, often by posing as charities. A great deal of money, for example, was raised for the Tigers following the 2004 tsunami that devastated Sri Lanka and many other countries.
Courtesy: FBI
Senior U.S. State Department Official Visits Sri Lanka
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Don Camp visited Colombo April 20-22 as part of the U.S. Government's regular, ongoing consultations with the Sri Lankan Government, US embassy in Colombo said in a statement today.
According to the statement to, Mr. Camp During his visit met with senior Government of Sri Lanka officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights Mahinda Samarasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Defense Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, and Secretary to the Ministry of Justice Suhada Gamalath. He also met with leading political figures, civil society leaders, and business representatives, statement further revealed.
The statement also cited Mr. Camp having characterizing his meetings as "useful and frank, in the way of long time friends".
"We value the dialogue we continue to have with the government, as well as the lines of communication we maintain with Sri Lanka's political, business, and civil society leaders. Many of the issues we discuss are difficult ones, particularly on human rights and the resolution of the conflict, but the U.S. will remain engaged in the hope of seeing progress." ,the statement further cited.
Mr. Camp also welcomed initial measures to demobilize TMVP child soldiers, urged progress on human rights, and stressed the importance of free and fair elections in the East, without violence or intimidation, the statement said.
Mr. Camp's first Foreign Service posting was to the U.S. Embassy in Colombo in the late 1970s, and he served here again briefly as Charg‚ d'Affaires in 2003.
According to the statement to, Mr. Camp During his visit met with senior Government of Sri Lanka officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights Mahinda Samarasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Defense Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, and Secretary to the Ministry of Justice Suhada Gamalath. He also met with leading political figures, civil society leaders, and business representatives, statement further revealed.
The statement also cited Mr. Camp having characterizing his meetings as "useful and frank, in the way of long time friends".
"We value the dialogue we continue to have with the government, as well as the lines of communication we maintain with Sri Lanka's political, business, and civil society leaders. Many of the issues we discuss are difficult ones, particularly on human rights and the resolution of the conflict, but the U.S. will remain engaged in the hope of seeing progress." ,the statement further cited.
Mr. Camp also welcomed initial measures to demobilize TMVP child soldiers, urged progress on human rights, and stressed the importance of free and fair elections in the East, without violence or intimidation, the statement said.
Mr. Camp's first Foreign Service posting was to the U.S. Embassy in Colombo in the late 1970s, and he served here again briefly as Charg‚ d'Affaires in 2003.
Wanni liberation continues; 28 terrorists killed in yesterday's clashes
Finalized military reports received from battlefronts in the North indicate 28 deaths of LTTE cadres during yesterday's (April 21) clashes with Army. In addition, according to the reports, one soldier was killed and 17 others suffered injuries during these clashes.
In the Jaffna theatre of battle, troops launched several attacks at LTTE defences in the Muhamalai and Elthumaduwal areas during the day and claimed 4 LTTE bunkers were destroyed. 2 LTTE cadres were reportedly injured in these attacks. 4 soldiers suffered injuries due to LTTE mortar fire and anti personnel mine (AP) explosions.
On the Mannar front, troops in a pre- dawn attack captured LTTE stronghold called "Lima Base - 3" located at east of Kattankulam . Seven LTTE terrorists were killed in this incident while one soldier was also killed and 8 others suffered injuries. Further , snipers deployed in the Manthota and Kattankulam area claimed shooting down of 4 LTTE cadres. While clearing their way further into the Wanni territory, troops removed 71 AP mines and 8 booby traps laid by the terrorists. 2 soldiers suffered injuries due to AP mine explosions in Minnukkaid and Kattankulama areas.
On the Welioya front, troops had a series of daylong clashes with LTTE cadres in the North of Janakapura and the North of Kiriibbanwewa and claimed to have killed 9 terrorists and wounded 6 others. A soldier suffered injuries in one of these clashes occurred in North of Janakapura area.
On the Vavuniya front, troops claimed to have killed seven terrorists during the clashes occurred in Palampiddi , Thachchanamaruthamadu and Navathkulam areas on the same day. Two soldiers suffered injuries in these incidents .
Limited military operations are continuing ...
07 terrorists killed in several confrontations in Vavuniya front
07 terrorists were killed in several confrontations reported in Vavuniya front yesterday April 21.
In a clash reported in general area Palampiddi, ground troops confirmed that 04 LTTE terrorists were killed around 11 a.m yesterday.
An army soldier also received injuries due to the LTTE's retaliation.
Meanwhile, troops attacked at LTTE bunker line established at Navathkulam area last afternoon, sources said. Ground troops confirmed that three terrorists were killed in this attack.
Separately, an army soldier suffered injuries due to an explosion of anti-personnel mine in general area Thachchanamaruthamadu while he was in mine clearing duties. The explosion occurred around 5 p.m and the victim was rushed to the hospital for medical attention immediately, sources added.
In a clash reported in general area Palampiddi, ground troops confirmed that 04 LTTE terrorists were killed around 11 a.m yesterday.
An army soldier also received injuries due to the LTTE's retaliation.
Meanwhile, troops attacked at LTTE bunker line established at Navathkulam area last afternoon, sources said. Ground troops confirmed that three terrorists were killed in this attack.
Separately, an army soldier suffered injuries due to an explosion of anti-personnel mine in general area Thachchanamaruthamadu while he was in mine clearing duties. The explosion occurred around 5 p.m and the victim was rushed to the hospital for medical attention immediately, sources added.
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