Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets raided an LTTE special weapon maintenance and training facility located in the Cheddikulam jungle area this afternoon.
According to the Air Force sources, the air raid was carried out around 2.45 pm at the weapon maintenance workshop and the training facility situated in the Kariyalivayal area, 3km Southwest of Chundikulam. The target was taken effectively though the exact damage caused is yet to be known, the sources added.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Army sponsored free medical clinic conducted for Jaffna civilians
The Sri Lankan Army Security Forces Headquarters Jaffna organized a free medical clinic for the civilians in Jaffna peninsula on Friday (June 28). According to the military sources in Jaffna, over 400 civilians residing in Kuddaththanai, Nadakuddathanai, Pothapadi and Manalkadu villages were given treatments by military medics and nursing staff at the clinic held at Kuddathanai Government School.
Elderly people, women and children were the majority among the patients, the sources said. Army provided dry rations and snacks for all who attended the clinic, the sources added.
According to the military medics the large number residents of remote Jaffna villages are suffering from dental, skin, respiratory, and worm diseases and from malnutrition. Also, they noted that nearly three decades of terror war has deprived the residents of remote villages of quality health service and extreme poverty has held them from going to towns where large health facilities are available. However, army conducts regular health clinics for the civilians with its resources, they added.
The clinic was organized under the guidance of Major General GA Chandasiri , the Security Forces Commander Jaffna and with the full cooperation of government administrative officials in the area.
Elderly people, women and children were the majority among the patients, the sources said. Army provided dry rations and snacks for all who attended the clinic, the sources added.
According to the military medics the large number residents of remote Jaffna villages are suffering from dental, skin, respiratory, and worm diseases and from malnutrition. Also, they noted that nearly three decades of terror war has deprived the residents of remote villages of quality health service and extreme poverty has held them from going to towns where large health facilities are available. However, army conducts regular health clinics for the civilians with its resources, they added.
The clinic was organized under the guidance of Major General GA Chandasiri , the Security Forces Commander Jaffna and with the full cooperation of government administrative officials in the area.
LTTE receives heavy beating: Troops takeover Mannar 'Rice Bowl' [Updated]
The advancing Security Forces took total control over the entire Mannar 'Rice Bowl' area this afternoon (June 29), denying terrorists its main and heavily fortified defences at the Mannar front after days of heavy fighting ensued between troops and LTTE.
The capture of this area stands to be a significant breakthrough made by the security forces following the liberation of Periyamadhu area from LTTE on 26th June. According to military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara, the total area brought under control is approximately 120sq.kms, which mainly consists of the Island's most fertile paddy fields. In 1991, farmers have gathered a record-breaking paddy harvest from this area; the Spokesperson said adding that the famous 'Giants Tank' itself provides water to 153 small irrigation lakes.
Manthai, Manthottam, Adampan, Pallekuli, Kurukkandalkulama, Vellankulama, Vadakkandal, Alankulama, Andankulama, Marattikannadi, Alakaddiveli, Parappakandal. Parappukadatan, Tenveddiyan, Minukkulama, Vilayankulama, Papamoddai, Odduppalan, Kuruvil- Sluice, Neduvarampu, Kannaputtukulama and Vannakulama, were the main areas that was liberated by the security forces as troops are said to have consolidated and poised within striking distances to LTTE's strategically important coastal stronghold in Veddithalthivu.
Further speaking to defence.lk, Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said that, the capture of the Mannar 'Rice Bowl' and adjacent areas has denied the LTTE 12km of the A-32 Mannar- Pooneryn main road, in addition to the Uyilankulama - Adampan and Uyilankulama - Andankulama main roads, considered to be LTTE's main supply routes from the North.
The LTTE terrorists have also lost 13km of coastal stretch in Mannar, he further said.
The Sri Lankan Army infantry, armour and artillery troops mounted decisive attacks at LTTE positions inflicting heavy damages to the terrorists during the counter terrorist operations launched, with tactical fire support provided by the SLAF helicopter gun-ships, security sources said.
Related News >>
Troops make another breakthrough; Parappakkadantan falls to troops - Mannar front
32 LTTE terrorists killed, 6 soldiers wounded in Mannar clashes [Updated]
LTTE casualties on the rise: Troops force into terrorist defences in Mannar
Fierce battle in Mannar front; troops capture 3 Sq Km, 18 terrorists killed
The capture of this area stands to be a significant breakthrough made by the security forces following the liberation of Periyamadhu area from LTTE on 26th June. According to military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara, the total area brought under control is approximately 120sq.kms, which mainly consists of the Island's most fertile paddy fields. In 1991, farmers have gathered a record-breaking paddy harvest from this area; the Spokesperson said adding that the famous 'Giants Tank' itself provides water to 153 small irrigation lakes.
Manthai, Manthottam, Adampan, Pallekuli, Kurukkandalkulama, Vellankulama, Vadakkandal, Alankulama, Andankulama, Marattikannadi, Alakaddiveli, Parappakandal. Parappukadatan, Tenveddiyan, Minukkulama, Vilayankulama, Papamoddai, Odduppalan, Kuruvil- Sluice, Neduvarampu, Kannaputtukulama and Vannakulama, were the main areas that was liberated by the security forces as troops are said to have consolidated and poised within striking distances to LTTE's strategically important coastal stronghold in Veddithalthivu.
Further speaking to defence.lk, Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said that, the capture of the Mannar 'Rice Bowl' and adjacent areas has denied the LTTE 12km of the A-32 Mannar- Pooneryn main road, in addition to the Uyilankulama - Adampan and Uyilankulama - Andankulama main roads, considered to be LTTE's main supply routes from the North.
The LTTE terrorists have also lost 13km of coastal stretch in Mannar, he further said.
The Sri Lankan Army infantry, armour and artillery troops mounted decisive attacks at LTTE positions inflicting heavy damages to the terrorists during the counter terrorist operations launched, with tactical fire support provided by the SLAF helicopter gun-ships, security sources said.
Related News >>
Troops make another breakthrough; Parappakkadantan falls to troops - Mannar front
32 LTTE terrorists killed, 6 soldiers wounded in Mannar clashes [Updated]
LTTE casualties on the rise: Troops force into terrorist defences in Mannar
Fierce battle in Mannar front; troops capture 3 Sq Km, 18 terrorists killed
High-tech bridge for Arugam Bay
The Government will open the new Arugam Bay bridge connecting Pottuvil, Arugam Bay and Panama in the Eastern province, to the public today (June 30).
The bridge constructed at a cost of US $ 10 million, will replace the old bridge over Arugam Bay which was severely damaged in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has provided financial assistance for the construction of the new state-of -the-art bridge which has been designed and built according to US technology.
According to the Highways Ministry, the new bridge which runs parallel to the old one, comprises two spans measuring 185 metres, and offers user-friendly features like protected pedestrian walkways. The project launched in August 2006 also includes 900 metres of paved access roadway and a water supply system for Arugam Bay.
"We hope that the project will be a major boost for the fishing, agriculture and tourist industries in the areas and thus help the revival of the economy in the East," a Ministry spokesman said.
The bridge constructed at a cost of US $ 10 million, will replace the old bridge over Arugam Bay which was severely damaged in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has provided financial assistance for the construction of the new state-of -the-art bridge which has been designed and built according to US technology.
According to the Highways Ministry, the new bridge which runs parallel to the old one, comprises two spans measuring 185 metres, and offers user-friendly features like protected pedestrian walkways. The project launched in August 2006 also includes 900 metres of paved access roadway and a water supply system for Arugam Bay.
"We hope that the project will be a major boost for the fishing, agriculture and tourist industries in the areas and thus help the revival of the economy in the East," a Ministry spokesman said.
Hand grenades, ammunitions uncovered on civilian information -Jaffna
Troops acting on civilian information have uncovered 18 hand grenades, a T-56 assault riffle and few other war like items during a search operation conducted in general area Kopay, Jaffna today(June 29) at around 1.30 p.m.
The items were found hidden in an abandoned land, which also included 3 LTTE combat uniforms, an I-com set, a water can, 03 x LTTE packs, 120 x T-56 ammunitions, 05 field dressings and some water purifying tablets, security sources said.
The items were found hidden in an abandoned land, which also included 3 LTTE combat uniforms, an I-com set, a water can, 03 x LTTE packs, 120 x T-56 ammunitions, 05 field dressings and some water purifying tablets, security sources said.
Security Forces handover 26 LTTE corpses to ICRC- Vavuniya
Bodies of 26 LTTE terrorists were handed over to the ICRC officials in Vavuniya, by Security Forces today (June 29) at 2.30p.m.
Preparations were made by the ICRC to take them to the LTTE dominated areas across Omanthai Entry/Exit point. The bodies were found by the Army soldiers while consolidating defences following heavy fighting with LTTE in general area Chiraddikulama, Mannar.
One of the LTTE's main strategic bases known as 'Five Four' base was overrun by the military on 26th June, which resulted in heavy losses to the LTTE, security sources said.
Preparations were made by the ICRC to take them to the LTTE dominated areas across Omanthai Entry/Exit point. The bodies were found by the Army soldiers while consolidating defences following heavy fighting with LTTE in general area Chiraddikulama, Mannar.
One of the LTTE's main strategic bases known as 'Five Four' base was overrun by the military on 26th June, which resulted in heavy losses to the LTTE, security sources said.
43 LTTE terrorists killed, over 30 wounded in yesterday's clashes
At least 43 LTTE terrorists were killed and over 30 reported wounded during ensued battles between troops and LTTE in the Wanni and Northern battle theatres, on Saturday (June 28).
According to military reports received, 2 terrorists were killed and a soldier wounded in separate incidents at Nagarkovil and Kilaly, Jaffna.
Meanwhile, at the Vavuniya battlefront heavy fighting was reported as troops claimed 20 terrorists were killed and 8 others severely wounded. 2 soldiers also have laid their lives during the confrontations, while 2 others were reported wounded, security sources said. According to reports, the clashes were reported from Ambaddankulam, Naddankulam, Navatkulam, Panichchanmadu, Naouarampu and Palamoddai areas.
At the Mannar battlefront, 7 LTTE terrorists were killed and 3 others wounded on Saturday, according to security sources. Also, at the Welioya front troops claimed that 14 terrorists were killed and over a dozen injured in clashes erupted in general areas North of Janakapura, Kokkuthudduwai and Kiriibanwewa. 4 soldiers were also injured during the fighting, security sources added.
According to military reports received, 2 terrorists were killed and a soldier wounded in separate incidents at Nagarkovil and Kilaly, Jaffna.
Meanwhile, at the Vavuniya battlefront heavy fighting was reported as troops claimed 20 terrorists were killed and 8 others severely wounded. 2 soldiers also have laid their lives during the confrontations, while 2 others were reported wounded, security sources said. According to reports, the clashes were reported from Ambaddankulam, Naddankulam, Navatkulam, Panichchanmadu, Naouarampu and Palamoddai areas.
At the Mannar battlefront, 7 LTTE terrorists were killed and 3 others wounded on Saturday, according to security sources. Also, at the Welioya front troops claimed that 14 terrorists were killed and over a dozen injured in clashes erupted in general areas North of Janakapura, Kokkuthudduwai and Kiriibanwewa. 4 soldiers were also injured during the fighting, security sources added.
Arms and ammunition found - Muttur
A special police investigation team conducted a search operation found arms and ammunition from Kadakarachchena area in Muttur last night, June 28.
The search operation was launched around 11.30 p.m., security sources said. A sniper gun, 2 communication sets, 2 hand grenades, 2 T-56 magazines, 300 T-56 ammunition were also among the items found, sources further said.
The search operation was launched around 11.30 p.m., security sources said. A sniper gun, 2 communication sets, 2 hand grenades, 2 T-56 magazines, 300 T-56 ammunition were also among the items found, sources further said.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
13 Tamil civilians flee LTTE areas seeking security forces protection - Mannar
A group of Tamil civilians who left their native places in LTTE head areas reached to the Naval detachment at Pallemunai in Mannar seeking the protection for their lives last night, 28th June.
According to the available information, 13 civilians including 6 females and 7 males reached to the Pallemunali around 10.00 p.m. yesterday. The escapees are from Kilinochchi and Paranthan areas, sources further said.
Security forces have provided all the necessities of these hapless civilians and necessary steps have already been taken to provide safe shelter for them.
It is observed that Tamil civilians fleeing LTTE-held areas continuously reaching towards security forces seeing protection for their lives as they area living under severe life risk in LTTE areas. As the troops captured almost all the terror strongholds in Mannar front, an escalation of civilian movement towards government-controlled areas can be observed.
According to the available information, 13 civilians including 6 females and 7 males reached to the Pallemunali around 10.00 p.m. yesterday. The escapees are from Kilinochchi and Paranthan areas, sources further said.
Security forces have provided all the necessities of these hapless civilians and necessary steps have already been taken to provide safe shelter for them.
It is observed that Tamil civilians fleeing LTTE-held areas continuously reaching towards security forces seeing protection for their lives as they area living under severe life risk in LTTE areas. As the troops captured almost all the terror strongholds in Mannar front, an escalation of civilian movement towards government-controlled areas can be observed.
Arms and ammunition found - Muttur
A special police investigation team conducted a search operation found arms and ammunition from Kadakarachchena area in Muttur last night, June 28.
The search operation was launched around 11.30 p.m and a sniper gun, 2 communication sets, 2 hand grenades, 2 T-56 magazines, 300 T-56 ammunition were also among the items found, sources further said.
The search operation was launched around 11.30 p.m and a sniper gun, 2 communication sets, 2 hand grenades, 2 T-56 magazines, 300 T-56 ammunition were also among the items found, sources further said.
32 LTTE terrorists killed, 6 soldiers wounded in Mannar clashes [Updated]
The LTTE suffered heavy defeats with soaring casualties as the outfit lost almost all the bases within the Mannar 'Rice bowl' area with the fall of Andankulama in Mannar to security forces yesterday (June 27), military sources report. According to Military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara, 11 terrorists were killed in addition to 3 soldiers who were said wounded during the confrontations at Andankulama.
Troops have also gained full control over 13 square kilometers surrounding the Andankulma area, sources further said.
Also, the advancing Army battle formations have inflicted decisive blows to LTTE during multi-pronged attacks launched at LTTE fortified defence lines in general area Papamoddai, as troops confirmed at least 21 terrorists were killed in the confrontations. According to defence sources, pitched fighting were reported in Papamoddai and Neduvarampu general areas since 8a.m., which lasted till 4p.m, on Friday.
3 soldiers have received injuries, while military claimed to have uncovered another slain LTTE body along with a T-56 assault riffle following a search operation conducted in the area.
Papamoddai is located 12 km south of Vidathalthivu an LTTE strategic location and 8 km north of Mannar, on the Mannar-Pooneryn road.
Bodies of 5 LTTE cadres killed in confrontations in Palamoddai area, Vavuniya been handed over to the ICRC officials on 26th June.
Related News >>>
LTTE casualties on the rise: Troops force into terrorist defences in Mannar
25 corpses of LTTE uncovered as troops consolidate defences in Vavuniya
Troops have also gained full control over 13 square kilometers surrounding the Andankulma area, sources further said.
Also, the advancing Army battle formations have inflicted decisive blows to LTTE during multi-pronged attacks launched at LTTE fortified defence lines in general area Papamoddai, as troops confirmed at least 21 terrorists were killed in the confrontations. According to defence sources, pitched fighting were reported in Papamoddai and Neduvarampu general areas since 8a.m., which lasted till 4p.m, on Friday.
3 soldiers have received injuries, while military claimed to have uncovered another slain LTTE body along with a T-56 assault riffle following a search operation conducted in the area.
Papamoddai is located 12 km south of Vidathalthivu an LTTE strategic location and 8 km north of Mannar, on the Mannar-Pooneryn road.
Bodies of 5 LTTE cadres killed in confrontations in Palamoddai area, Vavuniya been handed over to the ICRC officials on 26th June.
Related News >>>
LTTE casualties on the rise: Troops force into terrorist defences in Mannar
25 corpses of LTTE uncovered as troops consolidate defences in Vavuniya
Army commander reviews security situation in Yala
Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka, accompanied by a few Senior Officers of the Army Headquarters, flew to Yala Saturday (28) morning in a bid to review the security situation in the area.
Commander Area Headquarters Hambantota Colonel Devinda Perera received the Army Commander on his arrival at the airstrip.
Arrangements made to ensure security in the area and adjoining villages were discussed at length during the meeting held at Area Headquarters auditorium.
Senior Officers of the Army and the Police responsible for the security in respective areas attended the meeting.
Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka gave further instructions on future security arrangements.
Courtesy : Sri Lanka Army
Commander Area Headquarters Hambantota Colonel Devinda Perera received the Army Commander on his arrival at the airstrip.
Arrangements made to ensure security in the area and adjoining villages were discussed at length during the meeting held at Area Headquarters auditorium.
Senior Officers of the Army and the Police responsible for the security in respective areas attended the meeting.
Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka gave further instructions on future security arrangements.
Courtesy : Sri Lanka Army
'Tigers have lost world sympathy by slaughtering Sinhalese' says top ranked publication
"The LTTE have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese" says a leading US scholar writing in what is widely regarded as the world's most influential publication on foreign policy and international affairs. Prof Richard Rosecrance makes this observation about the Tamil Tigers in a contribution co-authored with Arthur Stein entitled 'Separatism's Final Country', which appears in the latest issue of Foreign Affairs (July-August 2008).
Debating Prof Jerry Muller of the Catholic University of America on the issue 'Is Ethnic Conflict Inevitable?' Prof Rosecrance concludes that:
"If a separatist group uses terrorism, it tends to be reviled and sidelined. If an ethnic group does not have enough support to win independence by peaceful electoral means inside its country, its resorting to terrorism only calls into question the legitimacy of its quest for independence.
Recognizing this, the Quebecois abandoned the terrorist methods of the Quebec Liberation Front. Most Basques castigate Basque Homeland and freedom (known by its Basque acronym ETA). Enlightened Europeans have withdrawn their support for the Chechen rebels. And the continued terrorist shelling of Israeli cities from a Hamas -dominated Gaza might undermine the previous international consensus in favour of a two-state solution to the Palestinian problem, or at least warrant a exceptional approach to Gaza.
....Even where the central government has used force to suppress secessionist movements, it has offered carrots at the same time that it has yielded sticks. The province of Aceh has been coaxed, even as it has been subjected to threats, to remain inside the Indonesian republic. Kashmir, facing a balance of restraints and incentives, is unlikely to emerge as an independent state in India. And the Tamil Tigers have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese."
Richard Rosecrance is Senior Fellow at the Belfer Centre for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University and Adjunct Professor of Public policy at the John F Kennedy School of Government, also at Harvard. His co-author Arthur Stein is Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). They are co-editors of "No More States? Globalization, National Self-Determination, and Terrorism" (2006).
Their conclusion on the Tamil Tigers and secessionism appeared in the current issue of Foreign Affairs (Volume 87 No 4). The journal is rated in several surveys of the media as No 1 in influence among US opinion leaders and for four straight years the world's top publication on international affairs.
Debating Prof Jerry Muller of the Catholic University of America on the issue 'Is Ethnic Conflict Inevitable?' Prof Rosecrance concludes that:
"If a separatist group uses terrorism, it tends to be reviled and sidelined. If an ethnic group does not have enough support to win independence by peaceful electoral means inside its country, its resorting to terrorism only calls into question the legitimacy of its quest for independence.
Recognizing this, the Quebecois abandoned the terrorist methods of the Quebec Liberation Front. Most Basques castigate Basque Homeland and freedom (known by its Basque acronym ETA). Enlightened Europeans have withdrawn their support for the Chechen rebels. And the continued terrorist shelling of Israeli cities from a Hamas -dominated Gaza might undermine the previous international consensus in favour of a two-state solution to the Palestinian problem, or at least warrant a exceptional approach to Gaza.
....Even where the central government has used force to suppress secessionist movements, it has offered carrots at the same time that it has yielded sticks. The province of Aceh has been coaxed, even as it has been subjected to threats, to remain inside the Indonesian republic. Kashmir, facing a balance of restraints and incentives, is unlikely to emerge as an independent state in India. And the Tamil Tigers have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese."
Richard Rosecrance is Senior Fellow at the Belfer Centre for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University and Adjunct Professor of Public policy at the John F Kennedy School of Government, also at Harvard. His co-author Arthur Stein is Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). They are co-editors of "No More States? Globalization, National Self-Determination, and Terrorism" (2006).
Their conclusion on the Tamil Tigers and secessionism appeared in the current issue of Foreign Affairs (Volume 87 No 4). The journal is rated in several surveys of the media as No 1 in influence among US opinion leaders and for four straight years the world's top publication on international affairs.
12 LTTE killed, over 30 wounded in Vavuniya and Welioya
At least 12 LTTE terrorists were killed and over 30 wounded as fighting continued between troops and LTTE in the Vavuniya and Welioya battle fronts on Friday (June 27), security sources said.
According to MCNS, 12 terrorists were reported killed and 23 others injured during confrontations erupted ahead of LTTE defences North of Kiriibbanwewa and Welioya. 3 soldiers have laid their lives and 8 wounded during yesterday's fighting in Vavuniya and Welioya, MCNS further reported.
In the Vavuniya battle front, 7 LTTE terrorists have received injuries MCNS added citing ground troops. According to reports received, a total of 44 LTTE terrorists were killed and over 48 injured on Friday in Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya at the Wanni theatre of battle.
Earlier, on Thursday (26) military reports confirmed that 22 LTTE terrorists were killed and 14 wounded, in addition to 10 others who were believed either killed or seriously injured in the Wanni battles. 2 soldiers have laid their lives and 9 wounded in the clashes, according to military reports.
Related News >>>
32 LTTE terrorists killed, 6 soldiers wounded in Mannar clashes
According to MCNS, 12 terrorists were reported killed and 23 others injured during confrontations erupted ahead of LTTE defences North of Kiriibbanwewa and Welioya. 3 soldiers have laid their lives and 8 wounded during yesterday's fighting in Vavuniya and Welioya, MCNS further reported.
In the Vavuniya battle front, 7 LTTE terrorists have received injuries MCNS added citing ground troops. According to reports received, a total of 44 LTTE terrorists were killed and over 48 injured on Friday in Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya at the Wanni theatre of battle.
Earlier, on Thursday (26) military reports confirmed that 22 LTTE terrorists were killed and 14 wounded, in addition to 10 others who were believed either killed or seriously injured in the Wanni battles. 2 soldiers have laid their lives and 9 wounded in the clashes, according to military reports.
Related News >>>
32 LTTE terrorists killed, 6 soldiers wounded in Mannar clashes
Friday, June 27, 2008
LTTE casualties on the rise: Troops force into terrorist defences in Mannar
Security source said that, LTTE terrorists were beaten off from Andankulama general area with heavy casualties as troops intensified attacks at the remaining LTTE flanks positioned at the Mannar defences today (June 27).
According to latest reports received, troops are making tactical advances in the areas, while consolidating defences as LTTE terrorists were forced to abandon its trench and bunker lines during the military launched multi-pronged offensive.
Earlier, on Thursday (26) Sri Lankan Army infantry supported by armour and artillery stepped-up fresh attacks with combined SLAF air support on the remaining terrorist strong-points in Mannar.
Meanwhile, Army sources said that they have recovered the bodies of 25 LTTE terrorists killed in the fighting yesterday (June 26). Arrangements are being made to hand over those bodies recovered, through the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), the sources further said.
Related news >>>
LTTE receives heavy beating: 12 terrorists killed as troops force into Papamoddai
Twin air raids destroy LTTE training base and Forward Operating base - Mannar
25 corpses of LTTE uncovered as troops consolidate defences in Vavauniya
According to latest reports received, troops are making tactical advances in the areas, while consolidating defences as LTTE terrorists were forced to abandon its trench and bunker lines during the military launched multi-pronged offensive.
Earlier, on Thursday (26) Sri Lankan Army infantry supported by armour and artillery stepped-up fresh attacks with combined SLAF air support on the remaining terrorist strong-points in Mannar.
Meanwhile, Army sources said that they have recovered the bodies of 25 LTTE terrorists killed in the fighting yesterday (June 26). Arrangements are being made to hand over those bodies recovered, through the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), the sources further said.
Related news >>>
LTTE receives heavy beating: 12 terrorists killed as troops force into Papamoddai
Twin air raids destroy LTTE training base and Forward Operating base - Mannar
25 corpses of LTTE uncovered as troops consolidate defences in Vavauniya
'Tigers have lost world sympathy by slaughtering Sinhalese' says top ranked publication
"The LTTE have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese" says a leading US scholar writing in what is widely regarded as the world's most influential publication on foreign policy and international affairs. Prof Richard Rosecrance makes this observation about the Tamil Tigers in a contribution co-authored with Arthur Stein entitled 'Separatism's Final Country', which appears in the latest issue of Foreign Affairs (July-August 2008).
Debating Prof Jerry Muller of the Catholic University of America on the issue 'Is Ethnic Conflict Inevitable?' Prof Rosecrance concludes that:
"If a separatist group uses terrorism, it tends to be reviled and sidelined. If an ethnic group does not have enough support to win independence by peaceful electoral means inside its country, its resorting to terrorism only calls into question the legitimacy of its quest for independence.
Recognizing this, the Quebecois abandoned the terrorist methods of the Quebec Liberation Front. Most Basques castigate Basque Homeland and freedom (known by its Basque acronym ETA). Enlightened Europeans have withdrawn their support for the Chechen rebels. And the continued terrorist shelling of Israeli cities from a Hamas -dominated Gaza might undermine the previous international consensus in favour of a two-state solution to the Palestinian problem, or at least warrant a exceptional approach to Gaza.
....Even where the central government has used force to suppress secessionist movements, it has offered carrots at the same time that it has yielded sticks. The province of Aceh has been coaxed, even as it has been subjected to threats, to remain inside the Indonesian republic. Kashmir, facing a balance of restraints and incentives, is unlikely to emerge as an independent state in India. And the Tamil Tigers have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese."
Richard Rosecrance is Senior Fellow at the Belfer Centre for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University and Adjunct Professor of Public policy at the John F Kennedy School of Government, also at Harvard. His co-author Arthur Stein is Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). They are co-editors of "No More States? Globalization, National Self-Determination, and Terrorism" (2006).
Their conclusion on the Tamil Tigers and secessionism appeared in the current issue of Foreign Affairs (Volume 87 No 4). The journal is rated in several surveys of the media as No 1 in influence among US opinion leaders and for four straight years the world's top publication on international affairs.
Debating Prof Jerry Muller of the Catholic University of America on the issue 'Is Ethnic Conflict Inevitable?' Prof Rosecrance concludes that:
"If a separatist group uses terrorism, it tends to be reviled and sidelined. If an ethnic group does not have enough support to win independence by peaceful electoral means inside its country, its resorting to terrorism only calls into question the legitimacy of its quest for independence.
Recognizing this, the Quebecois abandoned the terrorist methods of the Quebec Liberation Front. Most Basques castigate Basque Homeland and freedom (known by its Basque acronym ETA). Enlightened Europeans have withdrawn their support for the Chechen rebels. And the continued terrorist shelling of Israeli cities from a Hamas -dominated Gaza might undermine the previous international consensus in favour of a two-state solution to the Palestinian problem, or at least warrant a exceptional approach to Gaza.
....Even where the central government has used force to suppress secessionist movements, it has offered carrots at the same time that it has yielded sticks. The province of Aceh has been coaxed, even as it has been subjected to threats, to remain inside the Indonesian republic. Kashmir, facing a balance of restraints and incentives, is unlikely to emerge as an independent state in India. And the Tamil Tigers have lost the sympathy of the world by their slaughter of innocent Sinhalese."
Richard Rosecrance is Senior Fellow at the Belfer Centre for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University and Adjunct Professor of Public policy at the John F Kennedy School of Government, also at Harvard. His co-author Arthur Stein is Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). They are co-editors of "No More States? Globalization, National Self-Determination, and Terrorism" (2006).
Their conclusion on the Tamil Tigers and secessionism appeared in the current issue of Foreign Affairs (Volume 87 No 4). The journal is rated in several surveys of the media as No 1 in influence among US opinion leaders and for four straight years the world's top publication on international affairs.
25 corpses of LTTE uncovered: consolidate defences in Vavauniya [Updated]
Scores of LTTE terrorists were reported killed and 25 bodies recovered after fighting brokeout between troops and LTTE in general area Chiraddikulama ahead of the Vavuniya defences yesterday (June 26), since 6p.m.
According to available information LTTE terrorists have received heavy damages as LTTE battle formations were said beaten in the military push launched by the 57 Division soldiers.
Meanwhile, 25 LTTE bodies were recovered by the troops who were engaged in search and clearing operations while consolidating the newly established defences, security sources said. Troops have also uncovered 20, T-56 assault riffles, 01x 12.7mm anti-air craft machinegun , 02x RPG launchers and 01x Light machinegun, MCNS sources said.
According to available information LTTE terrorists have received heavy damages as LTTE battle formations were said beaten in the military push launched by the 57 Division soldiers.
Meanwhile, 25 LTTE bodies were recovered by the troops who were engaged in search and clearing operations while consolidating the newly established defences, security sources said. Troops have also uncovered 20, T-56 assault riffles, 01x 12.7mm anti-air craft machinegun , 02x RPG launchers and 01x Light machinegun, MCNS sources said.
Soldier killed, one injured in LTTE claymore bomb attack -Jaffna
A soldier was killed and another wounded when LTTE terrorists triggered off a roadside claymore bomb targeting an Army route patrol in general area Manthikai, Point Pedro in Jaffna, today (June 27) at 8.50p.m.
The injured soldier was rushed to the Palaly military base hospital, military sources reported, adding that the explosion had occurred between Manthikai and Kalikai areas in Point Pedro.
Extensive search operations are underway in the area, security sources said.
The injured soldier was rushed to the Palaly military base hospital, military sources reported, adding that the explosion had occurred between Manthikai and Kalikai areas in Point Pedro.
Extensive search operations are underway in the area, security sources said.
'Salvage our lady of Madhu from LTTE' says Bethlehem Catholics
The Catholic community in Bethlehem, Palestine issuing a statement has urged the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade the LTTE to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island, foreign websites reported.
The Full text of the statement issued by the Catholic Community in Bethlehem:
"We the undersigned members of the Catholic community in Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus Christ are deeply concerned about the reported shifting of the highly venerated statue of our Lady of Madhu to an area 70 kilometers inside the jungle not accessible to the devotee. It is with great sorrow that we also learn of this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu being used as a shield by the radical group called LTTE in Sri Lanka.
"In view of the fact that the government of Sri Lanka has given the assurance that this shrine would be protected as in the past we appeal to the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade LTTE leaders to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island. As we understand this statue end the shrine is a national heritage and should be protected by all irrespective of faith or ethnic identity.
Therefore we of the Catholic community in Bethlehem in Palestine appeal once again to all parties concerned to protect this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu and place it in historical site so that devotees from all over the world could worship as in the past."
Related News >>>
Army liberates sacred Madhu shrine from terror clutches
The Full text of the statement issued by the Catholic Community in Bethlehem:
"We the undersigned members of the Catholic community in Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus Christ are deeply concerned about the reported shifting of the highly venerated statue of our Lady of Madhu to an area 70 kilometers inside the jungle not accessible to the devotee. It is with great sorrow that we also learn of this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu being used as a shield by the radical group called LTTE in Sri Lanka.
"In view of the fact that the government of Sri Lanka has given the assurance that this shrine would be protected as in the past we appeal to the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade LTTE leaders to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island. As we understand this statue end the shrine is a national heritage and should be protected by all irrespective of faith or ethnic identity.
Therefore we of the Catholic community in Bethlehem in Palestine appeal once again to all parties concerned to protect this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu and place it in historical site so that devotees from all over the world could worship as in the past."
Related News >>>
Army liberates sacred Madhu shrine from terror clutches
'Salvage our lady of Madhu from LTTE' says Bethlehem Catholics
The Catholic community in Bethlehem, Palestine issuing a statement has urged the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade the LTTE to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island, foreign websites reported.
The Full text of the statement issued by the Catholic Community in Bethlehem:
"We the undersigned members of the Catholic community in Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus Christ are deeply concerned about the reported shifting of the highly venerated statue of our Lady of Madhu to an area 70 kilometers inside the jungle not accessible to the devotee. It is with great sorrow that we also learn of this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu being used as a shield by the radical group called LTTE in Sri Lanka.
"In view of the fact that the government of Sri Lanka has given the assurance that this shrine would be protected as in the past we appeal to the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade LTTE leaders to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island. As we understand this statue end the shrine is a national heritage and should be protected by all irrespective of faith or ethnic identity.
Therefore we of the Catholic community in Bethlehem in Palestine appeal once again to all parties concerned to protect this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu and place it in historical site so that devotees from all over the world could worship as in the past."
Related News >>>
Army liberates sacred Madhu shrine from terror clutches
The Full text of the statement issued by the Catholic Community in Bethlehem:
"We the undersigned members of the Catholic community in Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus Christ are deeply concerned about the reported shifting of the highly venerated statue of our Lady of Madhu to an area 70 kilometers inside the jungle not accessible to the devotee. It is with great sorrow that we also learn of this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu being used as a shield by the radical group called LTTE in Sri Lanka.
"In view of the fact that the government of Sri Lanka has given the assurance that this shrine would be protected as in the past we appeal to the leaders of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka to persuade LTTE leaders to return the statue to its original shrine so that it would be accessible to the devotees who belong to all religions in the island. As we understand this statue end the shrine is a national heritage and should be protected by all irrespective of faith or ethnic identity.
Therefore we of the Catholic community in Bethlehem in Palestine appeal once again to all parties concerned to protect this venerated statue of Our Lady of Madhu and place it in historical site so that devotees from all over the world could worship as in the past."
Related News >>>
Army liberates sacred Madhu shrine from terror clutches
MOD Seva Vanitha unit donates computers to school children
The Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha Unit donated computers to children of war heroes during a charm function held the Ministry premises on 21st June.
The computers were distributed among school children who were between 8 and 12 grades. The president of the Ministry's Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, officially handed over these items to the children, which was also supported and coordinated by Mr. Ishan Ranawaka.
The computers were distributed among school children who were between 8 and 12 grades. The president of the Ministry's Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, officially handed over these items to the children, which was also supported and coordinated by Mr. Ishan Ranawaka.
24 corpses of LTTE uncovered as troops consolidate defences in Vavauniya
Scores of LTTE terrorists were reported killed and 24 bodies recovered after fighting brokeout between troops and LTTE in general area Chiraddikulama ahead of the Vavuniya defences yesterday (June 26), since 6p.m.
According to available information LTTE terrorists have received heavy damages as LTTE battle formations were said beaten in the military push launched by the 57 Division soldiers.
Meanwhile, 24 LTTE bodies were recovered by the troops who were engaged in search and clearing operations while consolidating the newly established defences, security sources said. Troops have also uncovered 20, T-56 assault riffles, 01x 12.7mm anti-air craft machinegun , 02x RPG launchers and 01x Light machinegun, MCNS sources said.
According to available information LTTE terrorists have received heavy damages as LTTE battle formations were said beaten in the military push launched by the 57 Division soldiers.
Meanwhile, 24 LTTE bodies were recovered by the troops who were engaged in search and clearing operations while consolidating the newly established defences, security sources said. Troops have also uncovered 20, T-56 assault riffles, 01x 12.7mm anti-air craft machinegun , 02x RPG launchers and 01x Light machinegun, MCNS sources said.
SLAF raids LTTE training facility - Oddusuddan
Sri Lanka Air Force supersonic fighter jets raided an LTTE training facility and special unit headquarters located in general area Oddusuddan this morning, June 27.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, speaking to defence.lk said that the target which is located at Pirapavettuwan, 10km north of Oddusudan junction was engaged around 6.10 a.m.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, speaking to defence.lk said that the target which is located at Pirapavettuwan, 10km north of Oddusudan junction was engaged around 6.10 a.m.
No pressure from India to stop military action, Cabinet Spokesman assures
HIGH-PROFILE INDIANS' VISIT A SIGN OF FLOURISHING TIES:
The recent visit of a high profile Indian delegation to Sri Lanka is none other than a manifestation of the flourishing bilateral relations between the two countries, Cabinet spokesman Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said.
Responding to a media query at the weekly cabinet briefing yesterday, the Information and Media Minister said there was no pressure or even a suggestion from the delegation to the Government regarding Sri Lanka's internal issues.
"The statement of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva that the delegates asked the Government to stop military action against the LTTE is totally baseless.
The talks were very cordial and no view or untoward suggestion regarding our internal affairs were expressed at any point," he said.
Pointing out that the Government's action against the LTTE was aimed at liberating the people of the North from terrorism, Minister Yapa said that both countries concurred on the need to address the grievances of the Tamil community through a political solution.
"Our relations with India were never as friendly and favourable as today. It is as a result of these healthy relations that not only political leaders but also top officials of the two countries are holding discussions on a regular basis," he added.
Courtesy - Daily News
The recent visit of a high profile Indian delegation to Sri Lanka is none other than a manifestation of the flourishing bilateral relations between the two countries, Cabinet spokesman Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said.
Responding to a media query at the weekly cabinet briefing yesterday, the Information and Media Minister said there was no pressure or even a suggestion from the delegation to the Government regarding Sri Lanka's internal issues.
"The statement of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva that the delegates asked the Government to stop military action against the LTTE is totally baseless.
The talks were very cordial and no view or untoward suggestion regarding our internal affairs were expressed at any point," he said.
Pointing out that the Government's action against the LTTE was aimed at liberating the people of the North from terrorism, Minister Yapa said that both countries concurred on the need to address the grievances of the Tamil community through a political solution.
"Our relations with India were never as friendly and favourable as today. It is as a result of these healthy relations that not only political leaders but also top officials of the two countries are holding discussions on a regular basis," he added.
Courtesy - Daily News
Periyamadhu falls to troops - Mannar fron
The Periyamadhu village, one of the LTTE's strongholds in Mannar front, captured by the security forces personnel and troops have also gained the full control over 7sq Km patch in Periyamadhu this evening (June 26), the MCNS said.
The victorious soldiers are presently conducting clearing operations to consolidate the area. Fierce gun battle took place in this area for last few weeks and despite the LTTE's resistance troops advanced into Periyamadhu village.
Earlier, on 14th of June, troops captured entire bund of the Periyamadhu tank which is about 2.5Km long. Immediately after capturing the Periyamadhu tank area troops marching towards Periyamadhu village.
The damages suffered to the enemy due to the confrontations ensued in this area are yet to be known.
Related News: Periyamadu Tank area falls to troops - Vavuniya
The victorious soldiers are presently conducting clearing operations to consolidate the area. Fierce gun battle took place in this area for last few weeks and despite the LTTE's resistance troops advanced into Periyamadhu village.
Earlier, on 14th of June, troops captured entire bund of the Periyamadhu tank which is about 2.5Km long. Immediately after capturing the Periyamadhu tank area troops marching towards Periyamadhu village.
The damages suffered to the enemy due to the confrontations ensued in this area are yet to be known.
Related News: Periyamadu Tank area falls to troops - Vavuniya
5 LTTE bodies handed over ICRC- Vavuni
Bodies of 5 LTTE cadres killed in confrontations took place in Palamoddai area have been handed over to the ICRC official today, June 26. The ICRC officials have taken these bodies into the LTTE held areas via Omanthai entry/exit point later, defence sources said.
Vavuniya Field Hospital Receives Army Chief
Commander Of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka with several senior officers at the Army Headquarters Thursday (26) morning made a special trip to visit injured War Heroes in the Vavuniya field hospital.
The Army chief spoke to those wounded War Heroes and shared a couple of thoughts with them while inquiring into their specific needs, if any. He also instructed medical authorities in the hospital to provide all medical requirements for those inmates without fail. Commander, showing his fatherly care towards his brave soldiers listened to their opinions on ongoing clearing operations and inquired into their welfare measures. .
During their powwow with the Commander, soldiers under treatment expressed their readiness to re-join their fellow-mates on the battle front soon after their recovery and vowed to fight against the enemy.
Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka wished them well before he departed to the Security Forces Headquarters Wanni (SFHQ-W) at the end of the hospital visit.
Major General Jagath Jayasuriya, Commander SFHQ-W after welcoming the Commander on his arrival sat with a gathering of Senior Ground Commanders representing Divisions and Brigades. Exchange of views on ground realities and present operations centered on the discussions that prevailed for some time. He gave further instructions and guidelines to his field commanders about future operations and other security measures need to be adopted.
Courtesy- SL Army
The Army chief spoke to those wounded War Heroes and shared a couple of thoughts with them while inquiring into their specific needs, if any. He also instructed medical authorities in the hospital to provide all medical requirements for those inmates without fail. Commander, showing his fatherly care towards his brave soldiers listened to their opinions on ongoing clearing operations and inquired into their welfare measures. .
During their powwow with the Commander, soldiers under treatment expressed their readiness to re-join their fellow-mates on the battle front soon after their recovery and vowed to fight against the enemy.
Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka wished them well before he departed to the Security Forces Headquarters Wanni (SFHQ-W) at the end of the hospital visit.
Major General Jagath Jayasuriya, Commander SFHQ-W after welcoming the Commander on his arrival sat with a gathering of Senior Ground Commanders representing Divisions and Brigades. Exchange of views on ground realities and present operations centered on the discussions that prevailed for some time. He gave further instructions and guidelines to his field commanders about future operations and other security measures need to be adopted.
Courtesy- SL Army
Wanni operation continues; 10 terrorists killed, 14 injured
Troops who were conducting continues offensive operations mainly in Wanni theatre killed 10 terrorists while injuring 14 others in clashes occurred in several areas yesterday, June 25, the finalized military report received from forefront said. Another 13 more terrorists reportedly either killed or wounded. 2 army soldiers have laid their lives for the motherland while 14 others suffered injuries during confrontations, the report further said.
In Vavuniya front, clashes between troops and LTTE terrorists reported Periyamadhu, Chiraddikulam and Navvi areas. 2 terrorists were killed while 3 others suffered injuries in these clashes. Meanwhile, one soldier was killed and 5 others received injuries, the report said. 34 anti-personnel mines also uncovered while conducting mine clearing operations in general area Periyamadhu.
In Mannar front, an army soldier suffered injuries exploding an anti-personnel mine in general area Veddayamurippu.
In Welioya front, 7 terrorists were killed and another 11 suffered injuries due to clashes ensued in north of Janakapura and north of Kiriibbanwewa areas. 13 more terrorists reportedly either killed or wounded during these clashes. One soldier suffered injuries and 7 more received injuries, the report said.
Further, few war like items were found in a search operation conducted following a confrontation took place in north of Janakapura area. One MPMG weapon, 34 hand grenades, and 1500 T-56 ammunition were among the items found.
80 anti-personnel mines and 13 Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) were also unearthed in mine clearing operations conducted in north of Kiriibbanwewa and north of Janakapura areas.
In Jaffna theatre, an LTTE terrorist was gunned down by the army snipers deployed in Muhamalai front. Separately, an army soldier also suffered injuries in a confrontation took place in Kilaly front.
In Vavuniya front, clashes between troops and LTTE terrorists reported Periyamadhu, Chiraddikulam and Navvi areas. 2 terrorists were killed while 3 others suffered injuries in these clashes. Meanwhile, one soldier was killed and 5 others received injuries, the report said. 34 anti-personnel mines also uncovered while conducting mine clearing operations in general area Periyamadhu.
In Mannar front, an army soldier suffered injuries exploding an anti-personnel mine in general area Veddayamurippu.
In Welioya front, 7 terrorists were killed and another 11 suffered injuries due to clashes ensued in north of Janakapura and north of Kiriibbanwewa areas. 13 more terrorists reportedly either killed or wounded during these clashes. One soldier suffered injuries and 7 more received injuries, the report said.
Further, few war like items were found in a search operation conducted following a confrontation took place in north of Janakapura area. One MPMG weapon, 34 hand grenades, and 1500 T-56 ammunition were among the items found.
80 anti-personnel mines and 13 Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) were also unearthed in mine clearing operations conducted in north of Kiriibbanwewa and north of Janakapura areas.
In Jaffna theatre, an LTTE terrorist was gunned down by the army snipers deployed in Muhamalai front. Separately, an army soldier also suffered injuries in a confrontation took place in Kilaly front.
Late Lieutenant General Parami Kulatunge Remembered
"The Soldier seals his devotion to his craft with his life - Philip Mason"
The second death anniversay of one of the veteran War Heroes in contemporary times Lieutenant General Parami Kulatunge who was brutally slain by Tiger terrorists falls today (June 26).
Lieutenant General Parami Kulatunge perished along with three more Army soldiers and a civilian in an LTTE suicide bomb attack at Pannipitiya, exactly two years ago while he was being driven to his office at Colombo Army Headquarters. A sea of mourners paid their last respects to this fallen military hero who was holding the post of Deputy Chief of Staff in the Army. The barbaric slaying occurred exactly two months after a Tamil Tiger woman cadre miserably failed to claim the life of Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka.
The second year commemorative activities to invoke merits on the departed Lieutenant General commenced at his ancestral home in Lewella, Kandy with an all-night Pirith chanting performed by a group of distinguished Buddhist monks. An alms-giving follows the following day.
Lt. General ParamiKulatunge fell prey to an LTTE suicide bomber on 26 June 2006 near Pannipitiya junction, Maharagama as he was proceeding towards Colombo during morning rush hours. He was the Deputy Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Army at the time of his demise.
Courtesy : SL Army
The second death anniversay of one of the veteran War Heroes in contemporary times Lieutenant General Parami Kulatunge who was brutally slain by Tiger terrorists falls today (June 26).
Lieutenant General Parami Kulatunge perished along with three more Army soldiers and a civilian in an LTTE suicide bomb attack at Pannipitiya, exactly two years ago while he was being driven to his office at Colombo Army Headquarters. A sea of mourners paid their last respects to this fallen military hero who was holding the post of Deputy Chief of Staff in the Army. The barbaric slaying occurred exactly two months after a Tamil Tiger woman cadre miserably failed to claim the life of Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka.
The second year commemorative activities to invoke merits on the departed Lieutenant General commenced at his ancestral home in Lewella, Kandy with an all-night Pirith chanting performed by a group of distinguished Buddhist monks. An alms-giving follows the following day.
Lt. General ParamiKulatunge fell prey to an LTTE suicide bomber on 26 June 2006 near Pannipitiya junction, Maharagama as he was proceeding towards Colombo during morning rush hours. He was the Deputy Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Army at the time of his demise.
Courtesy : SL Army
Twin air raids destroy LTTE training base and Forward Operating base - Mannar
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets and MI 24 helicopter Gunships carried out two air raids targeting LTTE camps located in the North Mannar this morning (June 26).
According to the Air Force sources, the first raid was carried out by MI 24 helicopters at 6 am targeting a Forward Operating Base (FOB) of LTTE located at Marattikannadi , 2 km North of Andankulama. The air raid was carried out to support the ground advance of Army 58 division on the Mannar front, said the sources. Ground troops have confirmed that the attack was effective, the sources added.
The second air raid was carried out by Air Force fighter jets around 6.10 am targeting a training base located in the Vellankulama area , 20 km North of Vidattaltivu. According to the sources the target was accurately taken. Exact damage caused to the enemy in this attack is yet to be verified, said the sources.
According to the Air Force sources, the first raid was carried out by MI 24 helicopters at 6 am targeting a Forward Operating Base (FOB) of LTTE located at Marattikannadi , 2 km North of Andankulama. The air raid was carried out to support the ground advance of Army 58 division on the Mannar front, said the sources. Ground troops have confirmed that the attack was effective, the sources added.
The second air raid was carried out by Air Force fighter jets around 6.10 am targeting a training base located in the Vellankulama area , 20 km North of Vidattaltivu. According to the sources the target was accurately taken. Exact damage caused to the enemy in this attack is yet to be verified, said the sources.
Troops in Mannar gains more ground; 17 terrorists killed in fierce fighting
Troops operating on the Mannar battlefront continued to attack terror defences and to push own defences further into the Wanni territory. According to the military reports received so far from Mannar, 17 terrorists were killed during yesterday's clashes (June 25) .
In the general area Mullikandal, troops advanced 600m ahead from their earlier positions amidst heavy resistance from the terrorists during morning hours. Radio monitoring units revealed that 6 terrorists were killed in this incident. Also, 4 soldiers suffered injuries.
At Marattikannadi , troops confronted with a group of terrorists around 6.20 am. One soldier suffered injuries in this attack while enemy casualties were not known.
At Kilavanakaddu troops attacked an LTTE bunker defence around 9.35 am. Monitored radio transmission confirmed that 3 terrorists were killed and 3 others wounded in this incident.
In a similar incident at Marattikannadi around 12.30 pm, ground sources confirmed that 5 terrorists were killed and 8 others wounded. According to sources, a soldier has also received injuries during the confrontation.
Meanwhile, snipers deployed in the Minnanivanchan area claimed to have killed 3 terrorists around 2.15 pm.
More information will follow...
In the general area Mullikandal, troops advanced 600m ahead from their earlier positions amidst heavy resistance from the terrorists during morning hours. Radio monitoring units revealed that 6 terrorists were killed in this incident. Also, 4 soldiers suffered injuries.
At Marattikannadi , troops confronted with a group of terrorists around 6.20 am. One soldier suffered injuries in this attack while enemy casualties were not known.
At Kilavanakaddu troops attacked an LTTE bunker defence around 9.35 am. Monitored radio transmission confirmed that 3 terrorists were killed and 3 others wounded in this incident.
In a similar incident at Marattikannadi around 12.30 pm, ground sources confirmed that 5 terrorists were killed and 8 others wounded. According to sources, a soldier has also received injuries during the confrontation.
Meanwhile, snipers deployed in the Minnanivanchan area claimed to have killed 3 terrorists around 2.15 pm.
More information will follow...
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
150 LTTE cadres including child soldiers killed in one month - LTTE posters reveal
Three obituary posters found by troops operating in the Mannar battlefront have revealed details of 150 LTTE cadres, including more than 20 child soldiers, killed in one month. According to defence sources, the posters were found on a billboard at a recently captured office of an LTTE regional leader in the Karakakulam area.
The three posters contain details of 50 LTTE cadres on each, including their name, rank and the unit that they had been attached to. However, no ranks were mentioned against 30 cadres who appear very young in their early or mid-teens. According to the details mentioned on the posters, the LTTE cadres were killed at various locations in the Jaffna and Wanni theatre of operations from 17th February to 10th March this year.
A defence intelligence official speaking to defence.lk said that many of the LTTE cadres on the poster must have been those forcibly led into the battle by the terrorist leadership.
"The pictures of teenagers and children show the LTTE is still using child soldiers despite its attempts cover up the existence of its shameful baby brigade", he said.
"There were pictures of 5 self-styled "Lieutenant Colonels", 9 "Majors", 14 "Captains", 51 "Lieutenants", 41 "Second Lieutenants" and 30 others without any rank, on the posters", he added.
Speaking further he said the idea behind the posters might have been to convince the parents of those killed that their children had been given very high status or rank in the terror outfit.
" It is a well known fact that LTTE is forcibly taking young children from their parents to be trained as terrorists. So, aggrieved parents are now rallying against the LTTE leadership in the Wanni for robbing their loved ones from them", he added. Earlier, reports declared by the UNICEF have accused the outfit of recruiting over 2000 children to its ranks through coercion campaigns carried out in the non-liberated areas.
Following are the obituary posters of the 150 LTTE cadres killed, including those believed to be child soldiers.
The three posters contain details of 50 LTTE cadres on each, including their name, rank and the unit that they had been attached to. However, no ranks were mentioned against 30 cadres who appear very young in their early or mid-teens. According to the details mentioned on the posters, the LTTE cadres were killed at various locations in the Jaffna and Wanni theatre of operations from 17th February to 10th March this year.
A defence intelligence official speaking to defence.lk said that many of the LTTE cadres on the poster must have been those forcibly led into the battle by the terrorist leadership.
"The pictures of teenagers and children show the LTTE is still using child soldiers despite its attempts cover up the existence of its shameful baby brigade", he said.
"There were pictures of 5 self-styled "Lieutenant Colonels", 9 "Majors", 14 "Captains", 51 "Lieutenants", 41 "Second Lieutenants" and 30 others without any rank, on the posters", he added.
Speaking further he said the idea behind the posters might have been to convince the parents of those killed that their children had been given very high status or rank in the terror outfit.
" It is a well known fact that LTTE is forcibly taking young children from their parents to be trained as terrorists. So, aggrieved parents are now rallying against the LTTE leadership in the Wanni for robbing their loved ones from them", he added. Earlier, reports declared by the UNICEF have accused the outfit of recruiting over 2000 children to its ranks through coercion campaigns carried out in the non-liberated areas.
Following are the obituary posters of the 150 LTTE cadres killed, including those believed to be child soldiers.
LTTE suffers heavy losses in yesterday's clashes in North; 40 terrorists killed
Troops engaged in counter terror offensives in the North yesterday (June 24) gave heavy beating to the terrorists on the battlefield. According to the military reports received from the battlefronts, 40 terrorists were killed, 17 others wounded, and 18 more were believed to be either killed or wounded. Also, 4 soldiers were killed and 14 others were wounded during these clashes.
In the Jaffna theatre of battle, troops had several confrontations with the terrorists in the Elathumadduwal and Muhamalai areas last evening and claimed one terrorist killed. Two soldiers were also killed due to terror small arms fire at one of the incidents occurred in the Muhamalai area.
In the Wanni theatre of operations - Vavuniya front , troops pushing their forward defence had daylong clashes with the terrorists at several areas.
At Ilamaruthankulam troops attacked an LTTE bunker and a hut using small arms and RPG last morning and claimed 3 terrorists were killed and the bunker partially destroyed.
In the general area Periyamadhu , troops had two separate confrontations during morning hours . The first incident was reported around 8 am when troops confronted with a group of terrorists . Both ground sources and radio transmission confirmed 6 terrorists were killed and 3 others suffered injuries in this incident. Also, one soldier was killed and 3 others wounded. During the subsequent search, troops found 3 bodies of slain LTTE cadres along with three T-56 weapons and one radio communication set. A similar incident was reported around 11 am and troops claimed 2 terrorists were killed while own suffered no casualties. During the subsequent search, troops found one body of an LTTE cadre, one T-56 weapon, one radio set and a pouch.
In the Chiriddikulama area, troops attacked and captured two trench defences manned by LTTE terrorists around 10 am. Both ground sources and radio monitoring confirmed that 2 terrorists were killed and 2 others wounded. Meanwhile, one soldier suffered injuries due to an Anti Personnel (AP) mine explosion.
Troops engaged in clearing operations removed 20 AP mines and one improvised explosive device (IED).
On the Mannar front , troops reported have confronted with the terrorists in the Mullikkandal, Minnaniranchan and Marattikannaddi, and Morotondivan during the day and claimed that 21 terrorists were killed and 9 others wounded. Also, one soldier was killed and six others wounded during these clashes.
On the Welioya front , troops had daylong clashes in the North of Janakapura and North of Kiriibbanwewa areas and claimed 5 terrorists were killed , 3 wounded and 18 more were either killed or wounded. One soldier was injured due to an IED explosion in the North of Jankapura area last afternoon.
Limited offensives are continuing.
In the Jaffna theatre of battle, troops had several confrontations with the terrorists in the Elathumadduwal and Muhamalai areas last evening and claimed one terrorist killed. Two soldiers were also killed due to terror small arms fire at one of the incidents occurred in the Muhamalai area.
In the Wanni theatre of operations - Vavuniya front , troops pushing their forward defence had daylong clashes with the terrorists at several areas.
At Ilamaruthankulam troops attacked an LTTE bunker and a hut using small arms and RPG last morning and claimed 3 terrorists were killed and the bunker partially destroyed.
In the general area Periyamadhu , troops had two separate confrontations during morning hours . The first incident was reported around 8 am when troops confronted with a group of terrorists . Both ground sources and radio transmission confirmed 6 terrorists were killed and 3 others suffered injuries in this incident. Also, one soldier was killed and 3 others wounded. During the subsequent search, troops found 3 bodies of slain LTTE cadres along with three T-56 weapons and one radio communication set. A similar incident was reported around 11 am and troops claimed 2 terrorists were killed while own suffered no casualties. During the subsequent search, troops found one body of an LTTE cadre, one T-56 weapon, one radio set and a pouch.
In the Chiriddikulama area, troops attacked and captured two trench defences manned by LTTE terrorists around 10 am. Both ground sources and radio monitoring confirmed that 2 terrorists were killed and 2 others wounded. Meanwhile, one soldier suffered injuries due to an Anti Personnel (AP) mine explosion.
Troops engaged in clearing operations removed 20 AP mines and one improvised explosive device (IED).
On the Mannar front , troops reported have confronted with the terrorists in the Mullikkandal, Minnaniranchan and Marattikannaddi, and Morotondivan during the day and claimed that 21 terrorists were killed and 9 others wounded. Also, one soldier was killed and six others wounded during these clashes.
On the Welioya front , troops had daylong clashes in the North of Janakapura and North of Kiriibbanwewa areas and claimed 5 terrorists were killed , 3 wounded and 18 more were either killed or wounded. One soldier was injured due to an IED explosion in the North of Jankapura area last afternoon.
Limited offensives are continuing.
Multiple air strikes at LTTE positions in Wanni and North
Sri Lankan Air Force fighter craft and MI-24 helicopter gun-ships launched multiple air strikes at identified LTTE positions in separate locations in Wanni and North this evening (June 25).
According to security sources, SLAF fighter jets have raided three LTTE artillery launching pads located 3km South of the Muhamalai LTTE forward defence lines (FDL) at around 1.45p.m. Earlier, Air Force MI-24 helicopter gun-ships attacked an LTTE bunker line located 3km North of Nittukaikulama Tank in Welioya, supporting advancing troops of the 59 Division at 1.15p.m, the sources added.
According to security sources, SLAF fighter jets have raided three LTTE artillery launching pads located 3km South of the Muhamalai LTTE forward defence lines (FDL) at around 1.45p.m. Earlier, Air Force MI-24 helicopter gun-ships attacked an LTTE bunker line located 3km North of Nittukaikulama Tank in Welioya, supporting advancing troops of the 59 Division at 1.15p.m, the sources added.
Govt committed to achieve lasting peace - President
I do not wish at all to wage war against the people of the country. My determination is to defeat terrorism. If the LTTE lays down arms at any moment I am ready to work with them to achieve peace, the President asserted.
The President made those observations at a discussion, he had with the leadrs of all religions, held at Temple Trees yesterday. The President also stressed that he is not prepared to surrender the security of the country and the nation to any terrorist outfit.
Ven. Dr. Bellanwila Wimalarathana Nayaka Thera, Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thera, Dr. Ven. Brahkmanawatte Seewali Thera, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Rev. Bishop Herald Perera, Rev. Bishop Rayappu Joseph, Moulavi Alhaj Niyas Mohamed, Moulavi Shahul Hammed Adambawa, Kyoichi Sugino of the World Religious Organisation, Chairperson PAFERAL Kingsley Rodrigo and several others participated at the discussion.
Courtesy: Daily News
The President made those observations at a discussion, he had with the leadrs of all religions, held at Temple Trees yesterday. The President also stressed that he is not prepared to surrender the security of the country and the nation to any terrorist outfit.
Ven. Dr. Bellanwila Wimalarathana Nayaka Thera, Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thera, Dr. Ven. Brahkmanawatte Seewali Thera, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Rev. Bishop Herald Perera, Rev. Bishop Rayappu Joseph, Moulavi Alhaj Niyas Mohamed, Moulavi Shahul Hammed Adambawa, Kyoichi Sugino of the World Religious Organisation, Chairperson PAFERAL Kingsley Rodrigo and several others participated at the discussion.
Courtesy: Daily News
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Progress of Wanni theatre of operations
Sri Lankan Armed forces, Police, Police Special Task Force (STF) and Civil Defence Force (CDF) are engaged in a military operation to liberate the Northern Province of Sri Lanka from the clutches of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam or LTTE. The terrorist outfit maintains its military activities mainly over two districts of the Northern Province namely Kilinochchi and Mulaithiuvu.
Also, the LTTE is still active in Northern borders of the Mannar and Vavuniya districts. The region under terrorist clutches is commonly known as the Wanni region.
The Sri Lanka Army plays the key role in land operations under the mission to liberate the Wanni. While the Navy denies terrorists the use of sea lines of communication and the Air Force destroys terrorist nerve centres deep in the Wanni, the Army is engaging the enemy in two theatres of battle namely, Jaffna and Wanni.
Jaffna & Wanni
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Security Forces' Forward Defence Line (FDL) stretches for about 12 km on the neck of the Jaffna peninsula. In the Jaffna theatre, the Army is at present engaging the terrorists on three fronts: Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil.
The Wanni theatre of operations is considered the area where at present the most strategically important battle is fought. The security forces FDL stretches about 115 km on the mainland between the Mannar coast on the North Western shores of the Island to the Kokkuttoduvai coast on the North Eastern shores. The Army has deployed 3 main divisions to lead the military operation along the Wanni Defence on 3 battlefronts namely; Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya.
Mannar Front
The Mannar battlefront is operated by the fighting elements of Army Task Force One. At present the troops of Task Force One advance along the North Western borders of Wanni crushing LTTE defences north of the Mannar area The Map 1 shows the battlefield progress of Task Force One in terms of capturing, strategic areas and rescuing peace-loving citizens from the LTTE's clutches. As the present military strategy goes far beyond land domination, the intensity of battle is the most on this front.
Soldiers of Task Force 1 have so far wrested control over strategically important Adampan Town (May 7, 2008), and Mullikandaal (May 8, 2008) and Maanthottam (May 10, 2008) villages. As the LTTE's main supply route via sea still lies over the Gulf of Mannar, the battlefront is considered to be of the highest strategic importance. Thus, the damage done to the enemy in terms of destroyed bunkers, strong points and attrition rate remain highest irrespective of the relatively low land domination.
Vavuniya Front
The Vavuniya battlefront lies on the middle on the Wanni FDL and at present mostly active on the Western region of the Jaffna - Kandy (A-9) main road. Fighting elements of the Army 57 Division lead the battle. The greatest progress in land domination has been obtained on this front. The Map 2 shows the present situation on the front.
Soldiers of 57 Division spearhead the Wanni operation dominating over 622 Sq. Km of land. They have so far liberated Madhu Camp including the sacred Madhu Church (April 24, 2008), Palampiddi Town (May 16, 2008), Mundimurippu village (May 23, 2008) and Periyamadhu village (June 15, 2008).
Welioya Front
The Welioya battlefront stretches along the FDL from the East of the A-9 road but is mostly active on the Eastern borders of the Wanni region. Fighting elements of the Army 59 Division are at present leading the battle into the thick Mulaithiuvu jungles. This battlefront lies closest to the strong LTTE positions in the Wanni. Mulaithiuvu, the Wanni heartland of the terrorists lies just 25 km from Kokkuttoduvai, the place where the present operations have originated. Map 3 shows the present progress of the battle.
Soldiers of 59 Division slowly but steadily advance through the Mulaithivu jungles from Janakapura, Kiriibbanwewa, Andankulama and Kokkuttoduvai areas. Their greatest achievement so far is the capture of Muunagam base (May 30, 2008), the main logistic link between LTTE strongholds in Wanni and LTTE cadres in the east, across the Mulaithiuvu jungle.
Also, the LTTE is still active in Northern borders of the Mannar and Vavuniya districts. The region under terrorist clutches is commonly known as the Wanni region.
The Sri Lanka Army plays the key role in land operations under the mission to liberate the Wanni. While the Navy denies terrorists the use of sea lines of communication and the Air Force destroys terrorist nerve centres deep in the Wanni, the Army is engaging the enemy in two theatres of battle namely, Jaffna and Wanni.
Jaffna & Wanni
In the Jaffna theatre of operations, the Security Forces' Forward Defence Line (FDL) stretches for about 12 km on the neck of the Jaffna peninsula. In the Jaffna theatre, the Army is at present engaging the terrorists on three fronts: Kilaly, Muhamalai and Nagarkovil.
The Wanni theatre of operations is considered the area where at present the most strategically important battle is fought. The security forces FDL stretches about 115 km on the mainland between the Mannar coast on the North Western shores of the Island to the Kokkuttoduvai coast on the North Eastern shores. The Army has deployed 3 main divisions to lead the military operation along the Wanni Defence on 3 battlefronts namely; Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya.
Mannar Front
The Mannar battlefront is operated by the fighting elements of Army Task Force One. At present the troops of Task Force One advance along the North Western borders of Wanni crushing LTTE defences north of the Mannar area The Map 1 shows the battlefield progress of Task Force One in terms of capturing, strategic areas and rescuing peace-loving citizens from the LTTE's clutches. As the present military strategy goes far beyond land domination, the intensity of battle is the most on this front.
Soldiers of Task Force 1 have so far wrested control over strategically important Adampan Town (May 7, 2008), and Mullikandaal (May 8, 2008) and Maanthottam (May 10, 2008) villages. As the LTTE's main supply route via sea still lies over the Gulf of Mannar, the battlefront is considered to be of the highest strategic importance. Thus, the damage done to the enemy in terms of destroyed bunkers, strong points and attrition rate remain highest irrespective of the relatively low land domination.
Vavuniya Front
The Vavuniya battlefront lies on the middle on the Wanni FDL and at present mostly active on the Western region of the Jaffna - Kandy (A-9) main road. Fighting elements of the Army 57 Division lead the battle. The greatest progress in land domination has been obtained on this front. The Map 2 shows the present situation on the front.
Soldiers of 57 Division spearhead the Wanni operation dominating over 622 Sq. Km of land. They have so far liberated Madhu Camp including the sacred Madhu Church (April 24, 2008), Palampiddi Town (May 16, 2008), Mundimurippu village (May 23, 2008) and Periyamadhu village (June 15, 2008).
Welioya Front
The Welioya battlefront stretches along the FDL from the East of the A-9 road but is mostly active on the Eastern borders of the Wanni region. Fighting elements of the Army 59 Division are at present leading the battle into the thick Mulaithiuvu jungles. This battlefront lies closest to the strong LTTE positions in the Wanni. Mulaithiuvu, the Wanni heartland of the terrorists lies just 25 km from Kokkuttoduvai, the place where the present operations have originated. Map 3 shows the present progress of the battle.
Soldiers of 59 Division slowly but steadily advance through the Mulaithivu jungles from Janakapura, Kiriibbanwewa, Andankulama and Kokkuttoduvai areas. Their greatest achievement so far is the capture of Muunagam base (May 30, 2008), the main logistic link between LTTE strongholds in Wanni and LTTE cadres in the east, across the Mulaithiuvu jungle.
Whole country a Peace Zone after Northern liberation - President
President Mahinda Rajapaksa asserts that his Government would seek to establish 'Peace Zones' not only in the precincts of sacred sites, but also in the whole country.
President Rajapaksa made this assertion when he presided and addressed the ceremony at which financial aid amounting to Rupees five million was symbolically handed over to religious dignitaries of 42 Temples, Kovils, Churches and Mosques, at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday(June 23).
"Every citizen of this land should have the freedom and the liberty to enjoy the right of religious worship, as per his conscience. The terrorists grabbed this right from the people.
However, we are a Government which is fully committed and prepared to make sacrifices and be committed to protect all faiths and their associated sites of worship," he said.
He pointed out that when the North is also liberated, the whole country would be a 'Peace Zone', and the 'Sacred Sites' would become 'Peace Zones' within it. "We are obliged to protect our religious devotion which we have sustained over the years," he added.
The President pointed out that the various religious units and ministries which were scattered in the past, were brought under one ministry, with the objective of integrating all religious affairs under one management and authority and averting conflicts of any nature.
"We need integration of our society and not division or differentiation. We formulated diverse programmes such as 'Mathata Thitha' with the objective of protecting our society. This project to develop our sacred sites would undoubtedly serve to achieve this objective," he said.
President Rajapaksa said that despite the war, his Government had not abandoned any mega development projects in the country, be it the expressways or the Norochcholai Coal Power project or any other. "We will not abandon the development of the religious sacred sites too," he added.
He was of the view that as a Buddhist, he learnt how to respect all communities and faiths, and was eager to protect all places of religious worship. He derived much happiness in doing so, he said. Sacred Sites Development Minister Dinesh Goonewardena and his secretary P. Ramajugan also expressed their sentiments at the ceremony.
Courtesy: Daily News
President Rajapaksa made this assertion when he presided and addressed the ceremony at which financial aid amounting to Rupees five million was symbolically handed over to religious dignitaries of 42 Temples, Kovils, Churches and Mosques, at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday(June 23).
"Every citizen of this land should have the freedom and the liberty to enjoy the right of religious worship, as per his conscience. The terrorists grabbed this right from the people.
However, we are a Government which is fully committed and prepared to make sacrifices and be committed to protect all faiths and their associated sites of worship," he said.
He pointed out that when the North is also liberated, the whole country would be a 'Peace Zone', and the 'Sacred Sites' would become 'Peace Zones' within it. "We are obliged to protect our religious devotion which we have sustained over the years," he added.
The President pointed out that the various religious units and ministries which were scattered in the past, were brought under one ministry, with the objective of integrating all religious affairs under one management and authority and averting conflicts of any nature.
"We need integration of our society and not division or differentiation. We formulated diverse programmes such as 'Mathata Thitha' with the objective of protecting our society. This project to develop our sacred sites would undoubtedly serve to achieve this objective," he said.
President Rajapaksa said that despite the war, his Government had not abandoned any mega development projects in the country, be it the expressways or the Norochcholai Coal Power project or any other. "We will not abandon the development of the religious sacred sites too," he added.
He was of the view that as a Buddhist, he learnt how to respect all communities and faiths, and was eager to protect all places of religious worship. He derived much happiness in doing so, he said. Sacred Sites Development Minister Dinesh Goonewardena and his secretary P. Ramajugan also expressed their sentiments at the ceremony.
Courtesy: Daily News
'Terrorism has no place in Canada 'says Canadian paper
"Canada clearly cannot allow groups that use terrorism - or the organizations that support such groups - to operate legally in this country," said Nova Scotia based Chronicle Herald supporting the Conservative government's decision to ban the World Tamil Movement, a front organization of the terrorist group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
The Halifax based newspaper known as Canada's longest standing independently owned newspaper said, "TERRORISM - those who practise it and those who support it - has no place in Canada." The editorial also said the Tamil owned businesses have been intimidated to give donations to the terrorist group.
The following are some excerpts from the editorial:
"Ottawa officially placed the Tamil Tigers on its list of terrorist organizations two years ago. The LTTE - Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam - is the guerrilla group that's used extortion, assassinations, suicide bombings and the forced recruitment of child soldiers in its bloody fight for an independent state within the island nation of Sri Lanka. By rightly banning the LTTE, Canada finally joined the United Nations, European Union and many other countries, including the United States, Britain and Australia, in explicitly designating the Tigers as a terrorist group.
"Last week, Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day - citing RCMP evidence which he said showed that the World Tamil Movement (WTM) had been raising funds to support the Tamil Tigers - added the Tamil non-profit group, with offices in Toronto and Montreal, to the terrorist blacklist.
"Faced with hundreds of pages of RCMP affidavits alleging police knew how LTTE leaders in Sri Lanka had been using the non-profit group to extract money from the Tamil community in Canada, Mr. Day had no choice but to act. As the minister pointed out, the WTM - which denies the allegations - has every right to appeal the move, to himself and then to a federal court, where automatic appeal provisions renew every two years.
"Though the Tigers no doubt have the support of some in Canada's Tamil community, there have been reports others, including many Tamil-owned businesses, have felt they've been intimidated into donating significant sums of money - through the WTM - to support the separatist group.
"Mr. Day seemed to suggest the ongoing two-year RCMP investigation into the WTM may soon bring charges against individuals. "Stay tuned," said the minister.
"Canada clearly cannot allow groups that use terrorism - or the organizations that support such groups - to operate legally in this country. At the same time, Canada can continue to try to persuade both sides - the Sri Lankan government and LTTE - to stop the bloodshed and realize an end to the conflict would benefit both peoples."
The Halifax based newspaper known as Canada's longest standing independently owned newspaper said, "TERRORISM - those who practise it and those who support it - has no place in Canada." The editorial also said the Tamil owned businesses have been intimidated to give donations to the terrorist group.
The following are some excerpts from the editorial:
"Ottawa officially placed the Tamil Tigers on its list of terrorist organizations two years ago. The LTTE - Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam - is the guerrilla group that's used extortion, assassinations, suicide bombings and the forced recruitment of child soldiers in its bloody fight for an independent state within the island nation of Sri Lanka. By rightly banning the LTTE, Canada finally joined the United Nations, European Union and many other countries, including the United States, Britain and Australia, in explicitly designating the Tigers as a terrorist group.
"Last week, Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day - citing RCMP evidence which he said showed that the World Tamil Movement (WTM) had been raising funds to support the Tamil Tigers - added the Tamil non-profit group, with offices in Toronto and Montreal, to the terrorist blacklist.
"Faced with hundreds of pages of RCMP affidavits alleging police knew how LTTE leaders in Sri Lanka had been using the non-profit group to extract money from the Tamil community in Canada, Mr. Day had no choice but to act. As the minister pointed out, the WTM - which denies the allegations - has every right to appeal the move, to himself and then to a federal court, where automatic appeal provisions renew every two years.
"Though the Tigers no doubt have the support of some in Canada's Tamil community, there have been reports others, including many Tamil-owned businesses, have felt they've been intimidated into donating significant sums of money - through the WTM - to support the separatist group.
"Mr. Day seemed to suggest the ongoing two-year RCMP investigation into the WTM may soon bring charges against individuals. "Stay tuned," said the minister.
"Canada clearly cannot allow groups that use terrorism - or the organizations that support such groups - to operate legally in this country. At the same time, Canada can continue to try to persuade both sides - the Sri Lankan government and LTTE - to stop the bloodshed and realize an end to the conflict would benefit both peoples."
20 civilians fleeing LTTE areas seek security forces protection- Welioya
Twenty civilians fleeing LTTE held areas in Mullaithivue and Malayanwadu reached the Kokilai army point seeking the security forces protection this morning, June 24.
The group comprising 14 males and 6 females have reached to the security forces controlling areas around 10.45 a.m, defence sources said. Three children were also among the escapees who have fled their native areas due to the LTTE's harassment and forceful recruitments, sources further said.
Security forces personnel have provided all the necessities for the escapees and steps have already been taken by the government officials to provide safe shelter for them.
The group comprising 14 males and 6 females have reached to the security forces controlling areas around 10.45 a.m, defence sources said. Three children were also among the escapees who have fled their native areas due to the LTTE's harassment and forceful recruitments, sources further said.
Security forces personnel have provided all the necessities for the escapees and steps have already been taken by the government officials to provide safe shelter for them.
MoD SVU donates computers for disabled soldiers
The Seva Vanitha Unit (SVU) of the Ministry of Defence donated computers and other electrical appliances for the disabled soldiers at the Senapura camp and soldiers at the Saliyapura Gajaba Regimental center recently.
The president of the Ministry's Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, officially handed over these items in a function held at Senapura and Saliyapura camps on 4th June 2008.
The Senior Assistance Secretary (Administration) of the Ministry, Mrs Indu Rathnayake, the Colonel Commandant of the Gajaba Regiment, Major General S.W.L Daulagala RSP, Regimental Center Commandant Lt Colonel J.M.S.S Jayasundara, several Seva Vanitha Unit's officials and Army officers were also at the occasion.
The president of the Ministry's Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa, officially handed over these items in a function held at Senapura and Saliyapura camps on 4th June 2008.
The Senior Assistance Secretary (Administration) of the Ministry, Mrs Indu Rathnayake, the Colonel Commandant of the Gajaba Regiment, Major General S.W.L Daulagala RSP, Regimental Center Commandant Lt Colonel J.M.S.S Jayasundara, several Seva Vanitha Unit's officials and Army officers were also at the occasion.
3 Police constables killed, one injured in bomb explosion - Batticaloa
3 Police constables were killed and another injured when a bomb exploded within 400m distance of the Ayithamalai Police post in Batticaloa this evening (June 23), Police sources report.
3 constables who had gone to bathe in the lake nearby were killed in the explosion said Police Spokesperson DIG Ranjith Gunasekara, adding that it is believed to be a time bomb set by infiltrated LTTE operatives in the area.
The injured identified as PC Amila was rushed to the general Hospital at Batticaloa, he said.
The Police and security forces personnel are conducting further search operations in the area, according to our Batticaloa correspondent.
RELATED NEWS >>>
LTTE claymore mine explosion kills two policemen
3 constables who had gone to bathe in the lake nearby were killed in the explosion said Police Spokesperson DIG Ranjith Gunasekara, adding that it is believed to be a time bomb set by infiltrated LTTE operatives in the area.
The injured identified as PC Amila was rushed to the general Hospital at Batticaloa, he said.
The Police and security forces personnel are conducting further search operations in the area, according to our Batticaloa correspondent.
RELATED NEWS >>>
LTTE claymore mine explosion kills two policemen
4 LTTE terrorists killed, bunker destroyed in Mannar
4 LTTE terrorists were killed in two separate attacks launched by military, and an LTTE bunker reported destroyed ahead of the Mannar forward defences today (June 23).
According to reports, 2 terrorists were killed in SLA sniper attacks in general area Mullikulama, at around 3.25p.m. Earlier, two other terrorists were confirmed killed during an Army forward push into LTTE defences in general area Puliyankulama, at 8.50a.m. An LTTE bunker was also destroyed during the military assault, sources further added.
According to reports, 2 terrorists were killed in SLA sniper attacks in general area Mullikulama, at around 3.25p.m. Earlier, two other terrorists were confirmed killed during an Army forward push into LTTE defences in general area Puliyankulama, at 8.50a.m. An LTTE bunker was also destroyed during the military assault, sources further added.
31 LTTE terrorists killed, scores wounded in yesterday's clashes
LTTE terrorists have received heavy beating at the Wanni and Northern battlefronts on Sunday (June 22), as troops surged forward into non-liberated positions ahead of the LTTE defences killing at least 31 terrorists, while reports confirmed that 70 others were also wounded in the fighting.
At the Mannar theater of battle, troops have destroyed 8 LTTE bunkers killing 20 terrorists and injuring 34 others, MCNS reported. According to sources, the clashes were reported from Charaddikulam, Chalampan, Vediyamuruppu, Kovitkanchi and Ampadiilupukulam general areas in Mannar.
MCNS also reported that 3 terrorists were killed, 30 wounded at the Welioya battlefront in fighting erupted with LTTE in general areas at North of Janakapura, Manikindamalei, Veddankern. 8 soldiers were also reported wounded during the clashes, while the sources added that troops have uncovered 96AP mines and 6 IEDs during search operations conducted.
Separately, at the Vavuniya battlefront, 8 LTTE terrorists were killed and 6 wounded MCNS reported adding that, the clashes were mainly reported from general area Periyamadu.
Meanwhile, at the Jaffna front in general areas at Kadirathanan and Ponnar 2 LTTE terrorists were killed, sources further said.
At the Mannar theater of battle, troops have destroyed 8 LTTE bunkers killing 20 terrorists and injuring 34 others, MCNS reported. According to sources, the clashes were reported from Charaddikulam, Chalampan, Vediyamuruppu, Kovitkanchi and Ampadiilupukulam general areas in Mannar.
MCNS also reported that 3 terrorists were killed, 30 wounded at the Welioya battlefront in fighting erupted with LTTE in general areas at North of Janakapura, Manikindamalei, Veddankern. 8 soldiers were also reported wounded during the clashes, while the sources added that troops have uncovered 96AP mines and 6 IEDs during search operations conducted.
Separately, at the Vavuniya battlefront, 8 LTTE terrorists were killed and 6 wounded MCNS reported adding that, the clashes were mainly reported from general area Periyamadu.
Meanwhile, at the Jaffna front in general areas at Kadirathanan and Ponnar 2 LTTE terrorists were killed, sources further said.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Gota: let us zero-in-on the common enemy
Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa wants the UNP to stop playing politics with the ongoing war effort against the LTTE.
In an interview with The Island, Rajapaksa regretted the UNP-led Opposition had chosen to undermine the military campaign which he asserted was on track despite the LTTE and its sympathisers frantically fighting to save the day.
Fielding questions, the outspoken official said the Opposition could play a constructive role, thereby facilitating the military effort against the common enemy. "We need to zero-in-on-the enemy. Unfortunately politicians are distracted and seem interested in petty squabbles, jeopardising the war effort."
"Unfortunately, in the eyes of some, I am a traitor," the retired infantry officer said, accusing the Opposition of conveniently turning a blind eye to what he called significant progress on the battle-field. No one would deny their right to attack the ruling coalition over spiralling cost of living, waste, corruption and irregularities, but the war against terrorism should not in anyway become an issue, he said.
He regretted the Opposition hadn't acknowledged the significance of break-up of the LTTE triggered by one-time Batticaloa leader Karuna, clearing of the Eastern Province of the LTTE, the breakaway faction contesting local government elections and provincial council election on the government ticket and the gradual disintegration of the enemy's Vanni bases. The Defence Secretary urged the Opposition not to throw a lifeline to the common enemy now struggling on the Vanni and Welioya fronts. He said the Opposition's strategy had allowed LTTE's overseas supporters to constantly meddle in what he called an essentially a domestic issue.
Recently UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe accused Rajapaksa of deserting the army in the early 90s and went on to call him a traitor.
Rajapaksa said he would have expected to heavy attacks on himself if he had signalled any interest in entering politics. "I have absolutely no interest in politics." he said. Rajapaksa emphasised that he would never seek to take political advantage over his critical role in what is widely believed to be the most successful campaign in the Eelam war.
The three service chiefs were responsible for the implementation of the overall security strategy, and the government was confident of their ability and capacity to execute the war successfully, he said, stressing the pivotal importance of the government and the Opposition co-operating on the war effort.
Drawing attention to a spate of indiscriminate attacks on public transport in the city, its suburbs and the provinces, Rajapaksa warned the Opposition not to shirk its responsibility. "Whatever our differences on other issues including the economy, there should be a common approach towards terrorism," he said. The country would never have another opportunity to wipe out the LTTE.
According to the Defence Secretary, the combined security forces were making significant progress on the Vanni front. The army on Mannar (Task Force 1), Vavuniya (57 Division), Welioya (59 Division) and Omanthai west (61 Division) fronts were gradually taking over enemy territory, he said. Although the LTTE would continue to make attempts to bring in fresh supplies, recruit more cadres and adopt new tactics, security forces had the wherewithal to meet any eventuality.
Commending the Canadian ban on the World Tamil Movement, a major supplier of funds to the LTTE war chest, the Defence Secretary said the Canadian action could not have come at a better time. "We expect other governments to follow the Canadian example." The international community no longer could encourage terrorism by turning a blind eye to massive fund raising operations undertaken by various groups, he said.
Hard on the heels of the Canadian action, the Italian government arrested 30 LTTE activists engaged in a major extortion racket. The Defence Secretary said the government was confident that the ongoing crackdown on the LTTE in various parts of the world would facilitate the destruction of the group. He accused a section of the Opposition of coming to the enemy's rescue as the military turned the heat on the Vanni.
Courtesy: The Island
In an interview with The Island, Rajapaksa regretted the UNP-led Opposition had chosen to undermine the military campaign which he asserted was on track despite the LTTE and its sympathisers frantically fighting to save the day.
Fielding questions, the outspoken official said the Opposition could play a constructive role, thereby facilitating the military effort against the common enemy. "We need to zero-in-on-the enemy. Unfortunately politicians are distracted and seem interested in petty squabbles, jeopardising the war effort."
"Unfortunately, in the eyes of some, I am a traitor," the retired infantry officer said, accusing the Opposition of conveniently turning a blind eye to what he called significant progress on the battle-field. No one would deny their right to attack the ruling coalition over spiralling cost of living, waste, corruption and irregularities, but the war against terrorism should not in anyway become an issue, he said.
He regretted the Opposition hadn't acknowledged the significance of break-up of the LTTE triggered by one-time Batticaloa leader Karuna, clearing of the Eastern Province of the LTTE, the breakaway faction contesting local government elections and provincial council election on the government ticket and the gradual disintegration of the enemy's Vanni bases. The Defence Secretary urged the Opposition not to throw a lifeline to the common enemy now struggling on the Vanni and Welioya fronts. He said the Opposition's strategy had allowed LTTE's overseas supporters to constantly meddle in what he called an essentially a domestic issue.
Recently UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe accused Rajapaksa of deserting the army in the early 90s and went on to call him a traitor.
Rajapaksa said he would have expected to heavy attacks on himself if he had signalled any interest in entering politics. "I have absolutely no interest in politics." he said. Rajapaksa emphasised that he would never seek to take political advantage over his critical role in what is widely believed to be the most successful campaign in the Eelam war.
The three service chiefs were responsible for the implementation of the overall security strategy, and the government was confident of their ability and capacity to execute the war successfully, he said, stressing the pivotal importance of the government and the Opposition co-operating on the war effort.
Drawing attention to a spate of indiscriminate attacks on public transport in the city, its suburbs and the provinces, Rajapaksa warned the Opposition not to shirk its responsibility. "Whatever our differences on other issues including the economy, there should be a common approach towards terrorism," he said. The country would never have another opportunity to wipe out the LTTE.
According to the Defence Secretary, the combined security forces were making significant progress on the Vanni front. The army on Mannar (Task Force 1), Vavuniya (57 Division), Welioya (59 Division) and Omanthai west (61 Division) fronts were gradually taking over enemy territory, he said. Although the LTTE would continue to make attempts to bring in fresh supplies, recruit more cadres and adopt new tactics, security forces had the wherewithal to meet any eventuality.
Commending the Canadian ban on the World Tamil Movement, a major supplier of funds to the LTTE war chest, the Defence Secretary said the Canadian action could not have come at a better time. "We expect other governments to follow the Canadian example." The international community no longer could encourage terrorism by turning a blind eye to massive fund raising operations undertaken by various groups, he said.
Hard on the heels of the Canadian action, the Italian government arrested 30 LTTE activists engaged in a major extortion racket. The Defence Secretary said the government was confident that the ongoing crackdown on the LTTE in various parts of the world would facilitate the destruction of the group. He accused a section of the Opposition of coming to the enemy's rescue as the military turned the heat on the Vanni.
Courtesy: The Island
Sri Lankan Expatriates in Canada protest against LTTE terrorism
A well-attended massive protest against LTTE terrorism was held on Saturday, June 21, 2008 starting from 10.30 am at Yonge and Bloor intersection in Toronto, Canada. Posters and banners decorated with anti-LTTE slogans condemning the innocent civilian killings and child recruitment for warfare and thanking Canadian Authorities to ban LTTE and its front organization World Tamil Movement in Canada were displayed by the protesters. This is the biggest such event so far taken place in Toronto, Canada against LTTE terrorism.
The enthusiastic Sri Lankan crowd conducted the protest for nearly three hours and finally held a rally in the protest area before they walked away. Importantly, large number of people from anti-LTTE Tamil community, represent Tamil Democratic Cultural Organization, took part in the event. A Leaflet was distributed to educate Canadians on LTTE terrorism during the protest. Toronto Police provided the security to the protest.
The enthusiastic Sri Lankan crowd conducted the protest for nearly three hours and finally held a rally in the protest area before they walked away. Importantly, large number of people from anti-LTTE Tamil community, represent Tamil Democratic Cultural Organization, took part in the event. A Leaflet was distributed to educate Canadians on LTTE terrorism during the protest. Toronto Police provided the security to the protest.
LTTE claymore mine explosion kills two policemen
LTTE terrorists have exploded a claymore mine targeting a police route clearing patrol at Kaludaveli in Batticaloa around 7.25 this morning (June 22). According to the defence sources, one officer of Police Special Task Force and another police constable have been killed.
The bomb was placed inside a luggage of a push cycle which was parked on the church road, Kaludaveli, the sources added.
The bomb was placed inside a luggage of a push cycle which was parked on the church road, Kaludaveli, the sources added.
Lodge manager provides accommodation to LTTE suicide bomber arrested - Colombo
The manager of a lodge who had provided accommodation to the LTTE suicide cadre who blew himself targeting Police personnel near the Sambuddhaloka Temple on Lotus road on 16th May was arrested by a special police team yesterday, June 21.
The suspect was the manager of the "Sooriyan Rest" of No 18, station road, Wellawatta and it is believed that he has close contact with Wanni LTTE leadership.
A copy of the Identity Card of the suicide cadre has also been found from the lodge while conducting a search, police sources said.
A special Police team is conducting further investigations
The suspect was the manager of the "Sooriyan Rest" of No 18, station road, Wellawatta and it is believed that he has close contact with Wanni LTTE leadership.
A copy of the Identity Card of the suicide cadre has also been found from the lodge while conducting a search, police sources said.
A special Police team is conducting further investigations
An LTTE body handed over to the ICRC
A body of an LTTE cadre who was killed in recent battle in Wanni theatre was handed over to the ICRC officials last afternoon, June 21.
The body was later taken to the un-cleared areas via the Omanthai entry/exit point by the ICRC officials.
The body was later taken to the un-cleared areas via the Omanthai entry/exit point by the ICRC officials.
Commander sits with his Wanni commanders
With view to boosting morale of the Army troops who continue to move forward smashing LTTE strongholds in the Wanni front and to addressing the Senior Ground Commanders leading those troops from the field, Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka flew to Vavuniya Saturday (21) morning.
On being received by the Commander Security Forces Headquarters Wanni (SFHQ-W) Major General Jagath Jayasuriya, Army Commander met the Commanders of Divisions, Brigades and Units who were present at the SFHQ auditorium.
After reviewing the security situation in respective areas, Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka gave instructions on future security measures in respective areas, specially strengthening positions in liberated areas in Vavuniya, Mannar and Welioya.
Attention on welfare of Internally Displaced Civilians arriving in cleared areas from un-cleared areas was also drawn during discussion.
A few Senior Officers of the Army Headquarters took part in the visit.
Courtesy - SL Army
On being received by the Commander Security Forces Headquarters Wanni (SFHQ-W) Major General Jagath Jayasuriya, Army Commander met the Commanders of Divisions, Brigades and Units who were present at the SFHQ auditorium.
After reviewing the security situation in respective areas, Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka gave instructions on future security measures in respective areas, specially strengthening positions in liberated areas in Vavuniya, Mannar and Welioya.
Attention on welfare of Internally Displaced Civilians arriving in cleared areas from un-cleared areas was also drawn during discussion.
A few Senior Officers of the Army Headquarters took part in the visit.
Courtesy - SL Army
A Claymore mine uncovered - Colombo [Updated]
A claymore mine weighing of 6Kg was found while clearing the canal near the R. PREMADASA Cricket Stadium at Maligawatta in Colombo this afternoon, June 21.
A group of UDA (Urban Development Authority) employees who were clearing the canal detected the claymore mine and brought it to the notice of the Police.
It was later defused by the Bomb Disposal unit.
A group of UDA (Urban Development Authority) employees who were clearing the canal detected the claymore mine and brought it to the notice of the Police.
It was later defused by the Bomb Disposal unit.
2 claymore mines uncovered - Vavuniya
Acting on information received from civilians, army personnel uncovered two claymore mines, anti-tank mines and hand grenades from general area Periyamurippu in Vavuniya this afternoon, June 21.
According to the available information the recovery was made around 2.00 p.m and 2 anti-yank mines and 12 hand grenades were also among the items recovered.
According to the available information the recovery was made around 2.00 p.m and 2 anti-yank mines and 12 hand grenades were also among the items recovered.
SLAF MI-24 helicopters raid LTTE gathering - Mannar
Sri Lanka Air Force MI-24 helicopter gun ships raided a gathering place of the LTTE terrorists located in general area 2Km north of Andankulam this afternoon, June 21.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkra, speaking to defence.lk said that the air raids were launched around 12.30 p.m in support of the ground troops advancing in Mannar front. Further he said that LTTE terrorists and few vehicles were also observed in this area.
Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkra, speaking to defence.lk said that the air raids were launched around 12.30 p.m in support of the ground troops advancing in Mannar front. Further he said that LTTE terrorists and few vehicles were also observed in this area.
4 LTTE terrorists killed - Vavuniya front
Four LTTE terrorists were killed when the troops launched an attack in general area Puwarasikulam in Vavuniya this morning, June 21.
According to the available information troops launched an effective fire observing terrorists bunker and hut in them.
According to the available information troops launched an effective fire observing terrorists bunker and hut in them.
A question Prabhakaran must be asked - Island Editorial
The LTTE owes its existence to naivety of successive governments which sought to make war and peace according to its agenda. Whenever Prabhakaran landed himself in trouble, he managed to gain a breather simply by waving a white flag. He used the time so gained to regroup, rearm, infiltrate the southern areas and expand and step up its extortion operations. Every ceasefire meant a new lease of life for the outfit since Operation Liberation (1987), which would have accounted for him, if not for India's intervention and the subsequent 'peace process' which resulted in humiliation for India and disaster for Sri Lanka, thanks to blunders committed on both sides of the Palk Straits.
A sure sign of the LTTE being in difficulty is its call for a ceasefire. When the roaring Tigers receive a thorough beating, they coo like doves and their minders go running to the international community seeking its intervention. One sees that happening at present. Their campaign to secure a breather for the Tigers trapped in the Wanni has got into the Over Drive mode. They have suddenly realized the value of life and begun weeping buckets for civilians dying in terror attacks. It is a pity that they did nothing to prevent the LTTE from resuming war three years ago!
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremenayake has told a newly accredited foreign envoy that talks are not possible unless and until the LTTE eschews violence and lays down arms. This will never happen. For, the LTTE has crossed the Rubicon in its terrorist war and its survival hinges upon remaining armed and unleashing violence. It may have done as the Prime Minister says within the first few years of its armed struggle but now it has become a prisoner of its own violence. Or, it may be able to wean itself away from terrorism under a different leadership. With Prabhakaran and his cohorts at the helm, the LTTE will never be able to give up arms and violence. The LTTE cannot exist in a democratic environment.
The LTTE has no way of escape now. It desperately needs a ceasefire which will cause the freezing of the troop positions and an MoU which will permit it to engage in 'political work' (read consolidation of its power) in the Eastern Province again. It is also in need of some kind of talks to be held overseas at a time when its fronts are being targeted by foreign governments as in Canada and Italy. Such crackdowns wouldn't have come at a worse time for the LTTE, whose morale is at a low ebb. A ceasefire will enable its fronts abroad to have a breather.
A ceasefire is a worrisome proposition for the government, as it will militate against the implementation of the Indian remedy which the LTTE has rejected lock, stock and barrel. The government cannot afford to offer anything more to the LTTE as its breakaway group the TMVP led by Chief Minister S. Chandrakanthan has agreed to the 13th Amendment and is trying to make it work in the East.
If anyone is desirous of a ceasefire, it is not the government that should be pressured to stop war but the LTTE. For, it was Prabhakaran who resumed the present phase of war in Nov. 2005, even before President Mahinda Rajapaksa had been properly ensconced in power. Barely two weeks after President Rajapaksa's induction, Prabhakaran in his heroes' day speech promised war and began claymore mine attacks on military and police personnel soon afterwards. Then he captured the Mavil Aru reservoir in 2006 depriving thousands of people of access to water thus causing a dilly-dallying President Rajapaksa to take up a stand. Hadn't the government decided to take on the LTTE, Prabhakaran, true to form, would have captured other irrigations works in the East as well. And, that was the time when the Trincomalee harbor was well within the range of heavy weapons of the LTTE, which after the resumption of war successfully shelled parts thereof.
Prabhakaran is said to be a good strategist but he blundered badly by resuming war in 2005. He may have wanted to unsettle President Rajapaksa from the word go so that he would not be able to counter the LTTE effectively. But, that proved to be a disastrous military miscalculation as its consequences have demonstrated. He must be regretting having ever done so!
There is a limit to Prabhakaran's resistance. He cannot hold out for ever in the Wanni as he has no way of replenishing supplies and the morale of his cadres is sagging due to being encircled. They cannot fight on several fronts at the same time to ward off the military juggernaut their boss has set in motion. On the LTTE's own admission, the army is also active deep inside its territory, which it once claimed to be impregnable and isn't this ample proof that Prabhakaran is getting beaten at his own game?
Prabhakaran has been targeting civilians at a rate and will continue to do so in a bid to pressure the government to abandon the war. Wounded, the Tigers are more ferocious. And they are likely to step up its killing spree in time to come. But, nothing is going to work for Prabhakaran this time round as the country has over the years learnt to remain resilient.
Those who are campaigning for a ceasefire must ask Prabhakaran a very simple question: "Are you willing to give up Eelam and settle for anything less?"
If his answer is in the negative, then the question is whether there is any point in trying to talk peace with him under the delusion that he might change his mind someday.
The LTTE owes its existence to naivete of successive governments which mistakenly sought to make war and peace according to its agenda. Whenever Prabhakaran landed himself in trouble, he managed to gain a breather simply by waving a white flag. He used the time so gained to regroup, rearm, infiltrate the southern areas and expand and step up its extortion operations. Every ceasefire meant a new lease of life for the outfit since Operation Liberation (1987), which would have accounted for him, if not for India's intervention and the subsequent 'peace process' which resulted in humiliation for India and disaster for Sri Lanka, thanks to blunders committed on both sides of the Palk Straits.
A sure sign of the LTTE being in difficulty is its call for a ceasefire. When the roaring Tigers receive a thorough beating, they coo like doves and their minders go running to the international community seeking its intervention. One sees that happening at present. Their campaign to secure a breather for the Tigers trapped in the Wanni has got into the Over Drive mode. They have suddenly realised the value of life and begun weeping buckets for civilians dying in terror attacks. It is a pity that they did nothing to prevent the LTTE from resuming war three years ago!
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremenayake has told a newly accredited foreign envoy that talks are not possible unless and until the LTTE eschews violence and lays down arms. This will never happen. For, the LTTE has crossed the Rubicon in its terrorist war and its survival hinges upon being armed and unleashing violence. It may have been able to do as the Prime Minister says within the first few years of its armed struggle but now it has become a prisoner of its own violence. Or, it may be able to wean itself away from terrorism under a different leadership. With Prabhakaran and his cohorts at the helm, the LTTE will never be able to give up arms and violence. It cannot exist in a democratic environment.
The LTTE has no way of escape now. It desperately needs a ceasefire which will cause the freezing of the troop positions and an MoU which will permit it to engage in 'political work' (read consolidation of its power) in the Eastern Province again. It is also in need of some kind of talks to be held overseas at a time when its fronts are being targeted by foreign governments as in Canada and Italy. Such crackdowns couldn't have come at a worse time for the LTTE, whose morale is at a low ebb. A ceasefire will enable its international fronts to have a breather.
A ceasefire is a worrisome proposition for the government, as it will militate against the implementation of the Indian remedy which the LTTE has rejected lock, stock and barrel. The government cannot afford to offer anything more to the LTTE as its breakaway group the TMVP led by Chief Minister S. Chandrakanthan has agreed to the 13th Amendment and is trying to make it work in the East. On the other hand, it is highly unlikely that India will endorse a devolution package that goes beyond her quasi federalism.
If anyone is desirous of a ceasefire, it is not the government that should be pressured to stop war but the LTTE. For, it was Prabhakaran who resumed the present phase of war in Nov. 2005, even before President Mahinda Rajapaksa had been properly ensconced in power. Barely two weeks after President Rajapaksa's induction, Prabhakaran in his heroes' day speech promised war and began claymore mine attacks on military and police personnel soon afterwards. Then he captured the Mavil Aru reservoir in 2006 depriving thousands of people of access to water thus causing a dilly-dallying President Rajapaksa to take a stand. Hadn't the government decided to take on the LTTE, Prabhakaran, true to form, would have captured other irrigation works in the East as well. And, that was the time when the Trincomalee harbour was well within the range of heavy weapons of the LTTE, which after the resumption of war successfully shelled parts thereof.
Prabhakaran is said to be a good strategist but he blundered badly by resuming war in 2005. He may have wanted to unsettle President Rajapaksa from the word go so that the latter would not be able to counter the LTTE effectively. But, that proved to be a disastrous military miscalculation as its consequences have demonstrated. He must be regretting having ever done so!
There is a limit to Prabhakaran's resistance. He cannot hold out for ever in the Wanni as he has no way of replenishing supplies and the morale of his cadres is sagging due to being encircled. They cannot fight on several fronts at the same time to ward off the military juggernaut their boss has set in motion. On the LTTE's own admission, the army is also active deep inside its territory, which it once claimed to be impregnable and isn't this ample proof that Prabhakaran is getting beaten at his own game?
Prabhakaran has been targeting civilians at a rate and will continue to do so in a bid to pressure the government to abandon its war effort. Wounded, the Tigers are more ferocious. And they are likely to step up its killing spree in time to come. But, nothing is going to work for Prabhakaran this time round as the country has over the years learnt to remain resilient.
Those who are campaigning for a ceasefire must ask Prabhakaran a very simple question: "Are you willing to give up Eelam and settle for anything less?"
If his answer is in the negative, then the question is whether there is any point in trying to talk peace with him under the delusion that he might change his mind someday.
Courtesy : The Island
A sure sign of the LTTE being in difficulty is its call for a ceasefire. When the roaring Tigers receive a thorough beating, they coo like doves and their minders go running to the international community seeking its intervention. One sees that happening at present. Their campaign to secure a breather for the Tigers trapped in the Wanni has got into the Over Drive mode. They have suddenly realized the value of life and begun weeping buckets for civilians dying in terror attacks. It is a pity that they did nothing to prevent the LTTE from resuming war three years ago!
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremenayake has told a newly accredited foreign envoy that talks are not possible unless and until the LTTE eschews violence and lays down arms. This will never happen. For, the LTTE has crossed the Rubicon in its terrorist war and its survival hinges upon remaining armed and unleashing violence. It may have done as the Prime Minister says within the first few years of its armed struggle but now it has become a prisoner of its own violence. Or, it may be able to wean itself away from terrorism under a different leadership. With Prabhakaran and his cohorts at the helm, the LTTE will never be able to give up arms and violence. The LTTE cannot exist in a democratic environment.
The LTTE has no way of escape now. It desperately needs a ceasefire which will cause the freezing of the troop positions and an MoU which will permit it to engage in 'political work' (read consolidation of its power) in the Eastern Province again. It is also in need of some kind of talks to be held overseas at a time when its fronts are being targeted by foreign governments as in Canada and Italy. Such crackdowns wouldn't have come at a worse time for the LTTE, whose morale is at a low ebb. A ceasefire will enable its fronts abroad to have a breather.
A ceasefire is a worrisome proposition for the government, as it will militate against the implementation of the Indian remedy which the LTTE has rejected lock, stock and barrel. The government cannot afford to offer anything more to the LTTE as its breakaway group the TMVP led by Chief Minister S. Chandrakanthan has agreed to the 13th Amendment and is trying to make it work in the East.
If anyone is desirous of a ceasefire, it is not the government that should be pressured to stop war but the LTTE. For, it was Prabhakaran who resumed the present phase of war in Nov. 2005, even before President Mahinda Rajapaksa had been properly ensconced in power. Barely two weeks after President Rajapaksa's induction, Prabhakaran in his heroes' day speech promised war and began claymore mine attacks on military and police personnel soon afterwards. Then he captured the Mavil Aru reservoir in 2006 depriving thousands of people of access to water thus causing a dilly-dallying President Rajapaksa to take up a stand. Hadn't the government decided to take on the LTTE, Prabhakaran, true to form, would have captured other irrigations works in the East as well. And, that was the time when the Trincomalee harbor was well within the range of heavy weapons of the LTTE, which after the resumption of war successfully shelled parts thereof.
Prabhakaran is said to be a good strategist but he blundered badly by resuming war in 2005. He may have wanted to unsettle President Rajapaksa from the word go so that he would not be able to counter the LTTE effectively. But, that proved to be a disastrous military miscalculation as its consequences have demonstrated. He must be regretting having ever done so!
There is a limit to Prabhakaran's resistance. He cannot hold out for ever in the Wanni as he has no way of replenishing supplies and the morale of his cadres is sagging due to being encircled. They cannot fight on several fronts at the same time to ward off the military juggernaut their boss has set in motion. On the LTTE's own admission, the army is also active deep inside its territory, which it once claimed to be impregnable and isn't this ample proof that Prabhakaran is getting beaten at his own game?
Prabhakaran has been targeting civilians at a rate and will continue to do so in a bid to pressure the government to abandon the war. Wounded, the Tigers are more ferocious. And they are likely to step up its killing spree in time to come. But, nothing is going to work for Prabhakaran this time round as the country has over the years learnt to remain resilient.
Those who are campaigning for a ceasefire must ask Prabhakaran a very simple question: "Are you willing to give up Eelam and settle for anything less?"
If his answer is in the negative, then the question is whether there is any point in trying to talk peace with him under the delusion that he might change his mind someday.
The LTTE owes its existence to naivete of successive governments which mistakenly sought to make war and peace according to its agenda. Whenever Prabhakaran landed himself in trouble, he managed to gain a breather simply by waving a white flag. He used the time so gained to regroup, rearm, infiltrate the southern areas and expand and step up its extortion operations. Every ceasefire meant a new lease of life for the outfit since Operation Liberation (1987), which would have accounted for him, if not for India's intervention and the subsequent 'peace process' which resulted in humiliation for India and disaster for Sri Lanka, thanks to blunders committed on both sides of the Palk Straits.
A sure sign of the LTTE being in difficulty is its call for a ceasefire. When the roaring Tigers receive a thorough beating, they coo like doves and their minders go running to the international community seeking its intervention. One sees that happening at present. Their campaign to secure a breather for the Tigers trapped in the Wanni has got into the Over Drive mode. They have suddenly realised the value of life and begun weeping buckets for civilians dying in terror attacks. It is a pity that they did nothing to prevent the LTTE from resuming war three years ago!
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremenayake has told a newly accredited foreign envoy that talks are not possible unless and until the LTTE eschews violence and lays down arms. This will never happen. For, the LTTE has crossed the Rubicon in its terrorist war and its survival hinges upon being armed and unleashing violence. It may have been able to do as the Prime Minister says within the first few years of its armed struggle but now it has become a prisoner of its own violence. Or, it may be able to wean itself away from terrorism under a different leadership. With Prabhakaran and his cohorts at the helm, the LTTE will never be able to give up arms and violence. It cannot exist in a democratic environment.
The LTTE has no way of escape now. It desperately needs a ceasefire which will cause the freezing of the troop positions and an MoU which will permit it to engage in 'political work' (read consolidation of its power) in the Eastern Province again. It is also in need of some kind of talks to be held overseas at a time when its fronts are being targeted by foreign governments as in Canada and Italy. Such crackdowns couldn't have come at a worse time for the LTTE, whose morale is at a low ebb. A ceasefire will enable its international fronts to have a breather.
A ceasefire is a worrisome proposition for the government, as it will militate against the implementation of the Indian remedy which the LTTE has rejected lock, stock and barrel. The government cannot afford to offer anything more to the LTTE as its breakaway group the TMVP led by Chief Minister S. Chandrakanthan has agreed to the 13th Amendment and is trying to make it work in the East. On the other hand, it is highly unlikely that India will endorse a devolution package that goes beyond her quasi federalism.
If anyone is desirous of a ceasefire, it is not the government that should be pressured to stop war but the LTTE. For, it was Prabhakaran who resumed the present phase of war in Nov. 2005, even before President Mahinda Rajapaksa had been properly ensconced in power. Barely two weeks after President Rajapaksa's induction, Prabhakaran in his heroes' day speech promised war and began claymore mine attacks on military and police personnel soon afterwards. Then he captured the Mavil Aru reservoir in 2006 depriving thousands of people of access to water thus causing a dilly-dallying President Rajapaksa to take a stand. Hadn't the government decided to take on the LTTE, Prabhakaran, true to form, would have captured other irrigation works in the East as well. And, that was the time when the Trincomalee harbour was well within the range of heavy weapons of the LTTE, which after the resumption of war successfully shelled parts thereof.
Prabhakaran is said to be a good strategist but he blundered badly by resuming war in 2005. He may have wanted to unsettle President Rajapaksa from the word go so that the latter would not be able to counter the LTTE effectively. But, that proved to be a disastrous military miscalculation as its consequences have demonstrated. He must be regretting having ever done so!
There is a limit to Prabhakaran's resistance. He cannot hold out for ever in the Wanni as he has no way of replenishing supplies and the morale of his cadres is sagging due to being encircled. They cannot fight on several fronts at the same time to ward off the military juggernaut their boss has set in motion. On the LTTE's own admission, the army is also active deep inside its territory, which it once claimed to be impregnable and isn't this ample proof that Prabhakaran is getting beaten at his own game?
Prabhakaran has been targeting civilians at a rate and will continue to do so in a bid to pressure the government to abandon its war effort. Wounded, the Tigers are more ferocious. And they are likely to step up its killing spree in time to come. But, nothing is going to work for Prabhakaran this time round as the country has over the years learnt to remain resilient.
Those who are campaigning for a ceasefire must ask Prabhakaran a very simple question: "Are you willing to give up Eelam and settle for anything less?"
If his answer is in the negative, then the question is whether there is any point in trying to talk peace with him under the delusion that he might change his mind someday.
Courtesy : The Island
'LTTE fund raisers should be sued for act of treason against Sri Lanka' says SPUR President
Kithsiri de Silva, President of the Australian based Peace organisation WASPUR, (Society for Peace, Unity and Human Rights) during a letter written to the Inspector General of Police recently said that, while enjoying the comfort and security provided by the heroic services and police personal, few NGOs have stooped to the lowest level of plotting against the very men and women who cover their backs.
"These organisations and individuals use the Human Rights and Media Rights as a smoke screen to engage in treacherous acts against the very country in which they are citizens of or are guest workers", he further stated in the letter written to the IGP.
He also added that the GOSL should embark on an immediate investigation to establish the source of funds to these NGOs and individuals to establish whether any of the LTTE funds have filled their coffers and apply the law of the land appropriately, in particular whether any acts of Treason against Sri Lanka has been committed by these Traitors.
The full text of the letter sent to the IGP this week by the President of WASPUR follows.
Dear Inspector General of Police,
As you may be aware the LTTE's dirty war on Sri Lankan State, it's economy and most critically her civil population is been waged and to a great extent funded from collections by the illicit activities of LTTE and it's front organisations across the world.
The noose is getting tighter around the neck of such fronts which are not only the main oxygen supply to LTTE Terror in Sri Lanka but also a major disruption for the peaceful cohabitation among ethnic communities in Western countries. As you would appreciate the recent actions in UK, Canada and Australia were driven by the latter concern and not because of their bleeding hearts for Sri Lanka's wellbeing.
However, one group that seems to continue to carry on destabilising the social fabric in Sri Lanka and overtly and covertly support the murderous and fascist LTTE are many FNGOs,NGOs and individuals, particularly in academia moonlighting as Champions for Human Rights. While enjoying the comfort and security provided by our heroic service and police personal they stoop to the lowest level of plotting against the very men and women who cover their backs. In other words these organisations and individuals have blood on their hands.
These organisations and individuals use the Human Rights and Media Rights as a smoke screen to engage in treacherous acts against the very country in which they are citizens of or are guest workers. Isn't it ironic that whenever an international aid group, economic alliance or other bi-lateral forum is to be engaged with Sri Lanka it is these dishonest and anti Sri Lankan NGOs and individuals who become active and start issuing communiqu‚s and offer interviews to international media denouncing the Sri Lankan State.
As part of the plot by many to see demise of Sri Lanka as we know it none of the International Collaborators also do not seem to be interested to talk to the Indigenous NGOs among Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities or across the spectrum of the civil society in general. Would not this very pattern suggest a plot against Sri Lanka by these groups and individuals?
We request that the GOSL embark on an immediate investigation to establish the source of funds to these NGOs and individuals to establish whether any of LTTE funds have filled their coffers and apply the law of the land appropriately, in particular whether any acts of Treason against Sri Lanka has been committed by these Traitors.
Yours Sincerely
WASPUR
"These organisations and individuals use the Human Rights and Media Rights as a smoke screen to engage in treacherous acts against the very country in which they are citizens of or are guest workers", he further stated in the letter written to the IGP.
He also added that the GOSL should embark on an immediate investigation to establish the source of funds to these NGOs and individuals to establish whether any of the LTTE funds have filled their coffers and apply the law of the land appropriately, in particular whether any acts of Treason against Sri Lanka has been committed by these Traitors.
The full text of the letter sent to the IGP this week by the President of WASPUR follows.
Dear Inspector General of Police,
As you may be aware the LTTE's dirty war on Sri Lankan State, it's economy and most critically her civil population is been waged and to a great extent funded from collections by the illicit activities of LTTE and it's front organisations across the world.
The noose is getting tighter around the neck of such fronts which are not only the main oxygen supply to LTTE Terror in Sri Lanka but also a major disruption for the peaceful cohabitation among ethnic communities in Western countries. As you would appreciate the recent actions in UK, Canada and Australia were driven by the latter concern and not because of their bleeding hearts for Sri Lanka's wellbeing.
However, one group that seems to continue to carry on destabilising the social fabric in Sri Lanka and overtly and covertly support the murderous and fascist LTTE are many FNGOs,NGOs and individuals, particularly in academia moonlighting as Champions for Human Rights. While enjoying the comfort and security provided by our heroic service and police personal they stoop to the lowest level of plotting against the very men and women who cover their backs. In other words these organisations and individuals have blood on their hands.
These organisations and individuals use the Human Rights and Media Rights as a smoke screen to engage in treacherous acts against the very country in which they are citizens of or are guest workers. Isn't it ironic that whenever an international aid group, economic alliance or other bi-lateral forum is to be engaged with Sri Lanka it is these dishonest and anti Sri Lankan NGOs and individuals who become active and start issuing communiqu‚s and offer interviews to international media denouncing the Sri Lankan State.
As part of the plot by many to see demise of Sri Lanka as we know it none of the International Collaborators also do not seem to be interested to talk to the Indigenous NGOs among Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities or across the spectrum of the civil society in general. Would not this very pattern suggest a plot against Sri Lanka by these groups and individuals?
We request that the GOSL embark on an immediate investigation to establish the source of funds to these NGOs and individuals to establish whether any of LTTE funds have filled their coffers and apply the law of the land appropriately, in particular whether any acts of Treason against Sri Lanka has been committed by these Traitors.
Yours Sincerely
WASPUR
Italian newspapers reveal scope of anti-LTTE operation
A clandestine network of the LTTE was collecting money from their fellow countrymen resident in Italy to be destined to the subversive group. Those who refused to pay a certain amount every month risked retaliations against their family members in Sri Lanka, Italian newspapers reported on the arrest of 33 LTTE terrorists in that country. The newspapers La Repubblica, Il Corrierr della Sera and Il Massaggero reported extensively on this massive operation conducted throughout Italy.
The report in the La Repubblica: "This is a distant war on which the investigators of the Special Police of Naples coordinated by the Anti-Terrorist Department of the Law Courts have focused their attention. The secrets of the mechanism of financing this war were kept by unsuspected immigrants, all with a regular stay permit and who have been living are working as domestics in Italy for many years.
Thirty Sri Lankan citizens of the Tamil ethnic group have been arrested with the accusation of association finalised to terrorism and extortion.
The operation took place in Naples, Rome, Palermo, Genoa, Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Mantova and Biella. The persons under investigations are accused to be members of the LTTE, the terrorist organisation that has caused so much bloodshed in Sri Lanka during the last 25 years and has provoked the death of over 8,000 civilians. In one year over Euro 3.5 million have been collected to be destined to the Tigers, often by blackmail.
The investigation has been carried out with thousands of telephone tappings and this with the new law, as Public Prosecutor Rosario Cantelmo says, "would not have been possible" since the investigators, as soon as a name came out in the course of a conversation immediately put under control also the telephone line of the latter, which would have been prohibited under the new law.
The investigation began in September 2006 when three Sri Lankans, of the Sinhalese ethnic group made an entry to the police stating that they were threatened by fellow countrymen on the eve of a demonstration against Tamil separatism organised in Naples.
The Chief of Digos, the Special Police, Antonio Sbordone and the Anti Terrorist Chief Inspector Dr. Lorenzo Manso initiated investigations that led to the arrests. The network had divided the territory in five areas: Biella, Genoa, Reggio Emilia, Naples and Palermo.
In Biella resided the "Coordinator for the Centre-North" while the "Coordinator for the South" resided in Palermo.
The primary goal was the collection of money: "You must force them, you must scare the people," persons under investigation says during a telephone conversation who then adds: "We must keep them in our fist, they are all our hostages, they must work at all costs for the organisation."
The group has its own 'counter intelligence' that filed all the Tamils living in Italy. The Tigers act in the same way also in other European countries. The mysterious chief who kept all the contacts resides in Zurich and in the telephone tappings he is referred to as 'The Big Man'. The arrests will all be validated in the next 24 hours.
Forty five days ago the law courts had asked for a 'custody ordinance' but the worsening of the situation in Sri Lanka, where just during this month there have been three terrorist attacks with 10 of victims, has suggested to intervene immediately.
The Minister of Interior, Roberto Maroni made his compliments to the investigators, whose chief, Sbordone reminded that the great majority of Sri Lankans in Italy is composed by honest and hard working persons.
Courtesy : Daily News
Related News >>
'3.5 million British Pounds raked for LTTE' says Italian Police
Italian Police arrests 33 LTTE terror suspects [Updated]
The report in the La Repubblica: "This is a distant war on which the investigators of the Special Police of Naples coordinated by the Anti-Terrorist Department of the Law Courts have focused their attention. The secrets of the mechanism of financing this war were kept by unsuspected immigrants, all with a regular stay permit and who have been living are working as domestics in Italy for many years.
Thirty Sri Lankan citizens of the Tamil ethnic group have been arrested with the accusation of association finalised to terrorism and extortion.
The operation took place in Naples, Rome, Palermo, Genoa, Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Mantova and Biella. The persons under investigations are accused to be members of the LTTE, the terrorist organisation that has caused so much bloodshed in Sri Lanka during the last 25 years and has provoked the death of over 8,000 civilians. In one year over Euro 3.5 million have been collected to be destined to the Tigers, often by blackmail.
The investigation has been carried out with thousands of telephone tappings and this with the new law, as Public Prosecutor Rosario Cantelmo says, "would not have been possible" since the investigators, as soon as a name came out in the course of a conversation immediately put under control also the telephone line of the latter, which would have been prohibited under the new law.
The investigation began in September 2006 when three Sri Lankans, of the Sinhalese ethnic group made an entry to the police stating that they were threatened by fellow countrymen on the eve of a demonstration against Tamil separatism organised in Naples.
The Chief of Digos, the Special Police, Antonio Sbordone and the Anti Terrorist Chief Inspector Dr. Lorenzo Manso initiated investigations that led to the arrests. The network had divided the territory in five areas: Biella, Genoa, Reggio Emilia, Naples and Palermo.
In Biella resided the "Coordinator for the Centre-North" while the "Coordinator for the South" resided in Palermo.
The primary goal was the collection of money: "You must force them, you must scare the people," persons under investigation says during a telephone conversation who then adds: "We must keep them in our fist, they are all our hostages, they must work at all costs for the organisation."
The group has its own 'counter intelligence' that filed all the Tamils living in Italy. The Tigers act in the same way also in other European countries. The mysterious chief who kept all the contacts resides in Zurich and in the telephone tappings he is referred to as 'The Big Man'. The arrests will all be validated in the next 24 hours.
Forty five days ago the law courts had asked for a 'custody ordinance' but the worsening of the situation in Sri Lanka, where just during this month there have been three terrorist attacks with 10 of victims, has suggested to intervene immediately.
The Minister of Interior, Roberto Maroni made his compliments to the investigators, whose chief, Sbordone reminded that the great majority of Sri Lankans in Italy is composed by honest and hard working persons.
Courtesy : Daily News
Related News >>
'3.5 million British Pounds raked for LTTE' says Italian Police
Italian Police arrests 33 LTTE terror suspects [Updated]
3 LTTE terrorists killed, 2 wounded in Mannar
Three LTTE terrorists were reported killed and two wounded in SLA launched ground attacks at the Mannar front on Friday (June 20), security sources report.
A terrorist was killed in general area Mullikkandal, following an Army sniper attack at around 2.50p.m., the sources said. Two other terrorists were killed and similar numbers believed wounded in an Army offensive launched in general area Nedunkandal, at 5.25p.m., the sources added.
A terrorist was killed in general area Mullikkandal, following an Army sniper attack at around 2.50p.m., the sources said. Two other terrorists were killed and similar numbers believed wounded in an Army offensive launched in general area Nedunkandal, at 5.25p.m., the sources added.
Film Corporation director behind Colombo civilian massacres arrested [Corrected]
Sri Lanka police intelligence sleuths yesterday (June 20) arrested the mastermind behind recent civilian massacres carried out in Colombo and suburbs by the LTTE terrorists. According to the police sources, the terrorist has been acting as a handler of "suicide bombers" and the main distributor of bombs for the terrorist network in the South.
Police media spokesperson, Senior Superintendent of Police Ranjith Gunasekara speaking to the defence.lk said that, the arrest was made last evening during a special raid carried out in the Kotahena area. He said the arrest was made on information provided by one of suicide bomber arrested in the Wellawatte area few days ago. The said suicide bomber had been handled by the terrorist who was arrested yesterday, he added.
"The terrorist was found in possession of an identity card issued by the National Film Corporation calling him to be a Director of the Corporation", he said.
"Also, he has a shop in the first floor of the Kotahena Supermarket where he used to keep the suicide cadre harboured during night hours", he further said.
Police media spokesperson refrained from revealing the names of the two suspects but confirmed that both of them have already confessed the crimes they had committed against innocent civilians.
"It was this "director" who had sent the female suicide bomber on the mission that killed 14 people including 7 school boys of the D.S Senanayake College at the Fort railway station on 3rd February in the wake of the independence day celebrations", he said.
"The suicide bomber who was arrested in this case is the one who had made the bombs under his handler's shelter at the shop at Kotahena". "The 'Director' was the one who had distributed the bombs to the other bombers to carryout civilian massacres" he added.
defence.lk further learnt that the police had found 9.5 kg of high explosives, a stock of detonators , iron balls weighing 1.5kg, and batteries with the suicide bomber. During the interrogations made he had revealed vital information on the LTTE network in the south.
The suicide bomber has told the police that he had been engaged in reconnaissance operations on VIP movements close to the Government Information Department at Narahenpita during recent past.
According to our sources, the suicide bomber had requested from the Wanni to give him a target as soon as possible for he could end his life and the immense mental agony that he had been suffering. The suicide bomber has further told the police that he does not wish to die for the LTTE any longer and agreed to give his full cooperation for the investigations, the sources added.
Meanwhile, the "Director" has revealed that he was to participate for a cultural show held at BMICH yesterday (21). The Prime Minster and Minister Mahinda Yapa Abewardane were also to participate for the same event. Police have found an invitation addressed to the terrorist for the said event issued by the Director of Cultural Department.
Related News >>>
11 civilians killed and 92 injured in LTTE bomb blast- Colombo
Police media spokesperson, Senior Superintendent of Police Ranjith Gunasekara speaking to the defence.lk said that, the arrest was made last evening during a special raid carried out in the Kotahena area. He said the arrest was made on information provided by one of suicide bomber arrested in the Wellawatte area few days ago. The said suicide bomber had been handled by the terrorist who was arrested yesterday, he added.
"The terrorist was found in possession of an identity card issued by the National Film Corporation calling him to be a Director of the Corporation", he said.
"Also, he has a shop in the first floor of the Kotahena Supermarket where he used to keep the suicide cadre harboured during night hours", he further said.
Police media spokesperson refrained from revealing the names of the two suspects but confirmed that both of them have already confessed the crimes they had committed against innocent civilians.
"It was this "director" who had sent the female suicide bomber on the mission that killed 14 people including 7 school boys of the D.S Senanayake College at the Fort railway station on 3rd February in the wake of the independence day celebrations", he said.
"The suicide bomber who was arrested in this case is the one who had made the bombs under his handler's shelter at the shop at Kotahena". "The 'Director' was the one who had distributed the bombs to the other bombers to carryout civilian massacres" he added.
defence.lk further learnt that the police had found 9.5 kg of high explosives, a stock of detonators , iron balls weighing 1.5kg, and batteries with the suicide bomber. During the interrogations made he had revealed vital information on the LTTE network in the south.
The suicide bomber has told the police that he had been engaged in reconnaissance operations on VIP movements close to the Government Information Department at Narahenpita during recent past.
According to our sources, the suicide bomber had requested from the Wanni to give him a target as soon as possible for he could end his life and the immense mental agony that he had been suffering. The suicide bomber has further told the police that he does not wish to die for the LTTE any longer and agreed to give his full cooperation for the investigations, the sources added.
Meanwhile, the "Director" has revealed that he was to participate for a cultural show held at BMICH yesterday (21). The Prime Minster and Minister Mahinda Yapa Abewardane were also to participate for the same event. Police have found an invitation addressed to the terrorist for the said event issued by the Director of Cultural Department.
Related News >>>
11 civilians killed and 92 injured in LTTE bomb blast- Colombo
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Sri Lanka strives to strengthen Human Rights whilst dealing with Terrorism
The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Office at Geneva 13th June 2008
Final Statement of the Sri Lankan delegation on the Universal Periodic Review of Sri Lanka by the United Nations Human Rights Council June 13th 2008 (adapted from delivery)
This had been preceded first by the statement of the Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights, read by the Secretary, introducing the Report of the UPR Process. Then followed statements by nine countries, many of which commended Sri Lanka for its efforts to safeguard all human rights despite the difficulties posed by terrorist threats. Unfortunately there was no time for other countries, including those from the SAARC Region, which had put themselves down to speak. Three countries, whilst appreciating progress, and Sri Lankan responses to the UPR process, suggested other areas in which further improvements could be made, while one country expressed disappointment about responses to recommendations, in particular the rejection about acceptance of a UN Monitoring Mission.
Seven statements by Non-Governmental Organizations followed, many of them expressing disappointment about the rejection of this particular recommendation, whilst raising other issues such as the rights of women and children which they felt had not been adequately addressed by member states during the UPR process.
Prof Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights, stated in the Sri Lankan response
Mr President, as you noted, this is not supposed to be an interactive dialogue, so we will not respond to individual comments. We are grateful, as we said before during the review, to all the countries that raised issues, not only those that recognized progress made on various fronts but also those that made constructive criticisms to help improve matters. We are pleased that all but one of the countries that spoke today were so positive, and we respect the queries raised by a couple of them and will do our best to address them. However, we will use this time to raise some general issues in order to clarify matters whilst taking the general purpose of this process further. Let me then first ask my colleague Mr Mohan Pieris to address some of the topics raised
Mr. Mohan Peiris, P.C (President's Counsel) Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Defence
I will deal first with some of the salient critiques made by distinguished delegates on the questions of torture and extrajudicial executions. Whilst appreciating recommendations in this respect, the Government states categorically that it does not condone torture and extrajudicial executions under any circumstances, and refutes any implicit suggestions that it has been complicit in torture or extrajudicial executions. I would ask the honourable delegates to appreciate that there is an absolute constitutional guarantee against torture in article 11 of the constitution of the Republic. It constitutes a criminal offense, with a seven year minimum term of imprisonment. The Supreme Court is empowered to make determinations regarding allegations of torture and about compensation. All complaints of torture are impartially and comprehensively investigated and perpetrators prosecuted in our courts. The civil legal system enables victims to obtain damages additionally. It also follows that disciplinary action may be taken against public officials if found guilty of those offenses of perpetrated torture.
On the question of extrajudicial killing, I would want delegates to appreciate that extrajudicial killings are also criminalized without any exception. Comprehensive legal processes are available against those responsible for such criminal activity. Sri Lanka will continue, as it does at present, to implement and further develop safeguards against occurrence of such criminal activity.
May I also take this opportunity of dealing with some other matters raised by honourable delegates, such as the question of impunity? Mr. President, let me assure them that every effort is being made to bring to book perpetrators of offenses or violators of human rights. It is not the case that the Government has no will, and I refute the allegation that there is no will to deal with these issues. We have set up the structures necessary and, as we have persistently asked from the Council, we need technical assistance in capacity building to deal with matters being raised in this august assembly from time to time. It might be well to remember that we have a long history of a highly developed legal system. We have a common law which is Roman-Dutch and we have also a very strong influence of the English law. And between these two legal systems we have developed, we have in place a very complex system of laws and I don't think we need any assistance in terms of any legal input to deal with the matters of human rights. In that respect it is our fervent plea that this assembly appreciates the difficulties that we have and why we seek assistance for capacity building.
In our search for improving the situation, and bearing in mind the impact of terrorism on human rights, may I bring another point to your attention regarding funding? This deeply concerns us. I would respectfully and graciously plead with delegates here that every effort be made on your part to stop the funding of terrorism, particularly in Sri Lanka. I am sad to say that we find large money flows from other jurisdictions to Sri Lanka in the funding of terrorism. And it is our fervent belief that if the funding is curtailed, this fight against terrorism could be far more successful and all conflicts could be brought to a peaceful end.
May I also deal with some of the matters raised by some other organizations, when they raised the question of the sexual violence against women in Akkaraipattu, and the critique made with regard to threats to journalists by the Secretary of Defense? We have mechanisms both in our criminal law and our civil law to deal with questions of sexual violence on women be it in Akkaraipattu or in any other part of Sri Lanka. It is not something that is new, it has been an issue that has been dealt with from time immemorial. The structures are in place and the perpetrators of such offenses are brought to book on a routine base. Indictments are sent out by the Attorney General's office, whereby offenders are brought to book, convicted, dealt with and punished in due course.
On the question of the threat to journalists, the Government is conscious of the constitutional guarantee with regard to the freedom of expression. We have written it down in our constitution and we respect that. Now we are only asking that we be understood when we critique the press openly with regard to some matters concerning national security. We cannot compromise on national security whilst assuring the freedom of press which we cherish and would like to protect. All we say is that the press must be conscious of the requirements of national security in the context of the crisis that the country faces. Let me assure you that the Government is committed to the protection of a free press, and this freedom will be assured to every journalist to get about their work because it is the position of the Government that a free press is of great assistance to the country in its process of governance.
Now to deal with another aspect of the matter, with regard to the IIGEP. The IIGEP is still in existence in Sri Lanka, and the comment that the IIGEP does not exist any more was an overstatement. The former members of the IIGEP decided not to function as the members of the IIGEP any more, but it is not the intention of Sri Lanka to derogate from that position but it would invite member states to assist, in whatever way possible, to enhancing the effectiveness of the Commission which is investigating incidents such as the ACF incident and the incident in Trincomalee. Thank you.
Prof Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights
Mr President, in concluding I should point out that the comments made about Sri Lanka fall into different areas which have to be addressed in different ways. Several people raised questions about alleged impunity and disappearances and extra-judicial killings and torture. Let me assure you that we are as concerned as everyone about these, and believe they have to be dealt with. That is why we are cooperating actively with the Special Rapporteur on torture, as we do with the excellent Special Rapporteur on IDPs, though there are fewer problems there as has clearly now been understood. We would have liked to cooperate too with Philip Alston, Special Rapporteur on Extra-Judicial Killings, but he has failed to answer our letters. I wrote to him earlier this year telling him what we are trying to do and asking for his help in certain particulars but there was no response. When we met, I asked why, and he said he didn't have the time. While we appreciate the job is unpaid, as he said, frankly I think you should not take on a job if you don't answer letters. Those of you who have read his initial report in 2006 would have realized what a very helpful report it was, because he drew attention to a lot of problems, and suggested mechanisms of improving them.
I think both he, Sri Lanka, the Office of the High Commissioner, and its Senior Advisor in Colombo were lax in not pursuing those recommendations immediately. But we are determined to do so now at least. For instance he had a lot of comments about the Police, and we did have a so-called international police support group, but I'm afraid it did nothing much except - and we are really extremely grateful to the Government of Sweden for this - for a Project on Scene of Crime Investigation. We have written now to Sweden, and to the United Kingdom which also provided some assistance, and crucially to Japan, which had not participated but which I know is very willing to assist us through the Task Force on Police Training.
We also had a lot of criticism with regard to the National Human Rights Commission. And I would like to place on record here our request that you and this Council investigate why the UNDP Stocktaking Report on our National Human Rights Commission, prepared in April 2007 was suppressed for so long. It was not given to the Head of Capacity Building in Geneva, the new UNDP Head in Colombo had not seen it last year. Now he is working on its recommendations, as we have done in suggesting an MoU between our Ministry and the Commission, but the question is why this has taken so long. We hope very much that assistance that was earlier pledged, and then it seems reneged on, is restored, and that we can ensure the development of Regional Centres, using UN Volunteers, for whom indeed at least one friendly country contributed funding that lay unused.
There are other issues that seem to us less serious. Thankfully we no longer hear allegations that our security forces, in their struggle against terror, indiscriminately target civilians. That is a canard that has been disposed of. Not so the allegations about child soldiers that seek also to incriminate the Sri Lankan forces, in a vain attempt to draw attention away from the continuing malpractices of the LTTE. With regard to general allegations about others accused of child recruitment, I refer you to the report I presented to the Human Rights Committee of Liberal International, and which was distributed to all countries that raised the question during the UPR. I fear it has not been read, but this canard too will soon die down. Meanwhile I should note that the last time I responded to the International Educational Development Inc., it was to condemn their pitiful attempt to justify the LTTE use of children over 15, on the to us utterly spurious grounds that international law permitted this.
The consequences of that type of indulgence can be seen in the tragic story of the 17 year old girl rescued in combat last week from the LTTE by Sri Lankan forces. Note that perhaps even more culpable than partisan NGOs in perpetuating such horrors was the carelessness of particular UN officials in Sri Lanka who argued that the LTTE needed to amend legislation to stop using children between 17 and 18. I am thankful that the UN Special Rapporteur, a Sri Lankan herself, and the current head of UNICEF in Sri Lanka, have made it clear that this is intolerable.
Finally we come to the question of a UN Monitoring Mission, which was raised in 12 of the recommendations we rejected, 11 of them from Europe. Mr President, last week we had very fruitful discussions with the European Commission, which reasserted its very friendly attitude to Sri Lanka. We believe this, but with insistent recommendations such as this, we are reminded rather of the affection of an elder sister. I have an elder sister, Mr President, as I am sure many people here do, and one tends to get tired of relentless finger wagging, done with love doubtless but nevertheless irritating. We have explained why we will not accept a UN Monitoring Mission, which is why we found upsetting the claim of the Danish Ambassador that, because we did not accept this recommendation, the whole UPR process seemed nugatory.
However, we believe our Human Rights situation can improve, and we welcome assistance from the Office of the High Commissioner for this purpose. The website of the OHCRC talks about technical support, but this is not forthcoming, and in particular with building up our national institutions. That, Mr President, is what we must do, and we will welcome criticism of current shortcomings, but not on the assumption that we need to be nannied for ever.
But we make all these efforts, Mr President, in the midst of combating terrorism, and in that respect, as my colleague mentioned, we are disappointed at the reaction of some European countries to our pleas to stop terrorist funding. When I mentioned this to Commissioner Fratini last year, he noted that there were inconsistencies. We do not think this is deliberate but, while we are most grateful to the efforts made by for instance France, we would hope others would be the same. I was told by his office that funds were limited, and that funding tended to be used against what was seen as Islamic terrorism. But, just as no man is an island, terrorism is not an isolated phenomenon, and we must all work together to stop it.
We understand there can be legal delays, we understand that tragedies such as the events of yesterday in Pakistan, can occur, but we expect understanding for our progress not being as fast as required, just as we extend understanding for deficiencies in others. But, confident in the understanding and support of our friends and those unequivocally opposed to terrorism, we will continue with our struggle, Mr President, and not be daunted.
Finally, may I take this opportunity, as you give up this august office, to present you with a book we have issued, entitled 'Pursuing Peace, Fighting Falsehood'. Strengthening Human Rights, Eliminating Terrorism, Pursuing Peace and Fighting Falsehoods that distract us are all essential in our determination to restore pluralistic democracy throughout our country.
Just as all member states have shown their willingness during this Review to help us in the first of these, we hope we will have your support for the other three too.
Courtesy : www.lankamission.org
Final Statement of the Sri Lankan delegation on the Universal Periodic Review of Sri Lanka by the United Nations Human Rights Council June 13th 2008 (adapted from delivery)
This had been preceded first by the statement of the Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights, read by the Secretary, introducing the Report of the UPR Process. Then followed statements by nine countries, many of which commended Sri Lanka for its efforts to safeguard all human rights despite the difficulties posed by terrorist threats. Unfortunately there was no time for other countries, including those from the SAARC Region, which had put themselves down to speak. Three countries, whilst appreciating progress, and Sri Lankan responses to the UPR process, suggested other areas in which further improvements could be made, while one country expressed disappointment about responses to recommendations, in particular the rejection about acceptance of a UN Monitoring Mission.
Seven statements by Non-Governmental Organizations followed, many of them expressing disappointment about the rejection of this particular recommendation, whilst raising other issues such as the rights of women and children which they felt had not been adequately addressed by member states during the UPR process.
Prof Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights, stated in the Sri Lankan response
Mr President, as you noted, this is not supposed to be an interactive dialogue, so we will not respond to individual comments. We are grateful, as we said before during the review, to all the countries that raised issues, not only those that recognized progress made on various fronts but also those that made constructive criticisms to help improve matters. We are pleased that all but one of the countries that spoke today were so positive, and we respect the queries raised by a couple of them and will do our best to address them. However, we will use this time to raise some general issues in order to clarify matters whilst taking the general purpose of this process further. Let me then first ask my colleague Mr Mohan Pieris to address some of the topics raised
Mr. Mohan Peiris, P.C (President's Counsel) Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Defence
I will deal first with some of the salient critiques made by distinguished delegates on the questions of torture and extrajudicial executions. Whilst appreciating recommendations in this respect, the Government states categorically that it does not condone torture and extrajudicial executions under any circumstances, and refutes any implicit suggestions that it has been complicit in torture or extrajudicial executions. I would ask the honourable delegates to appreciate that there is an absolute constitutional guarantee against torture in article 11 of the constitution of the Republic. It constitutes a criminal offense, with a seven year minimum term of imprisonment. The Supreme Court is empowered to make determinations regarding allegations of torture and about compensation. All complaints of torture are impartially and comprehensively investigated and perpetrators prosecuted in our courts. The civil legal system enables victims to obtain damages additionally. It also follows that disciplinary action may be taken against public officials if found guilty of those offenses of perpetrated torture.
On the question of extrajudicial killing, I would want delegates to appreciate that extrajudicial killings are also criminalized without any exception. Comprehensive legal processes are available against those responsible for such criminal activity. Sri Lanka will continue, as it does at present, to implement and further develop safeguards against occurrence of such criminal activity.
May I also take this opportunity of dealing with some other matters raised by honourable delegates, such as the question of impunity? Mr. President, let me assure them that every effort is being made to bring to book perpetrators of offenses or violators of human rights. It is not the case that the Government has no will, and I refute the allegation that there is no will to deal with these issues. We have set up the structures necessary and, as we have persistently asked from the Council, we need technical assistance in capacity building to deal with matters being raised in this august assembly from time to time. It might be well to remember that we have a long history of a highly developed legal system. We have a common law which is Roman-Dutch and we have also a very strong influence of the English law. And between these two legal systems we have developed, we have in place a very complex system of laws and I don't think we need any assistance in terms of any legal input to deal with the matters of human rights. In that respect it is our fervent plea that this assembly appreciates the difficulties that we have and why we seek assistance for capacity building.
In our search for improving the situation, and bearing in mind the impact of terrorism on human rights, may I bring another point to your attention regarding funding? This deeply concerns us. I would respectfully and graciously plead with delegates here that every effort be made on your part to stop the funding of terrorism, particularly in Sri Lanka. I am sad to say that we find large money flows from other jurisdictions to Sri Lanka in the funding of terrorism. And it is our fervent belief that if the funding is curtailed, this fight against terrorism could be far more successful and all conflicts could be brought to a peaceful end.
May I also deal with some of the matters raised by some other organizations, when they raised the question of the sexual violence against women in Akkaraipattu, and the critique made with regard to threats to journalists by the Secretary of Defense? We have mechanisms both in our criminal law and our civil law to deal with questions of sexual violence on women be it in Akkaraipattu or in any other part of Sri Lanka. It is not something that is new, it has been an issue that has been dealt with from time immemorial. The structures are in place and the perpetrators of such offenses are brought to book on a routine base. Indictments are sent out by the Attorney General's office, whereby offenders are brought to book, convicted, dealt with and punished in due course.
On the question of the threat to journalists, the Government is conscious of the constitutional guarantee with regard to the freedom of expression. We have written it down in our constitution and we respect that. Now we are only asking that we be understood when we critique the press openly with regard to some matters concerning national security. We cannot compromise on national security whilst assuring the freedom of press which we cherish and would like to protect. All we say is that the press must be conscious of the requirements of national security in the context of the crisis that the country faces. Let me assure you that the Government is committed to the protection of a free press, and this freedom will be assured to every journalist to get about their work because it is the position of the Government that a free press is of great assistance to the country in its process of governance.
Now to deal with another aspect of the matter, with regard to the IIGEP. The IIGEP is still in existence in Sri Lanka, and the comment that the IIGEP does not exist any more was an overstatement. The former members of the IIGEP decided not to function as the members of the IIGEP any more, but it is not the intention of Sri Lanka to derogate from that position but it would invite member states to assist, in whatever way possible, to enhancing the effectiveness of the Commission which is investigating incidents such as the ACF incident and the incident in Trincomalee. Thank you.
Prof Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights
Mr President, in concluding I should point out that the comments made about Sri Lanka fall into different areas which have to be addressed in different ways. Several people raised questions about alleged impunity and disappearances and extra-judicial killings and torture. Let me assure you that we are as concerned as everyone about these, and believe they have to be dealt with. That is why we are cooperating actively with the Special Rapporteur on torture, as we do with the excellent Special Rapporteur on IDPs, though there are fewer problems there as has clearly now been understood. We would have liked to cooperate too with Philip Alston, Special Rapporteur on Extra-Judicial Killings, but he has failed to answer our letters. I wrote to him earlier this year telling him what we are trying to do and asking for his help in certain particulars but there was no response. When we met, I asked why, and he said he didn't have the time. While we appreciate the job is unpaid, as he said, frankly I think you should not take on a job if you don't answer letters. Those of you who have read his initial report in 2006 would have realized what a very helpful report it was, because he drew attention to a lot of problems, and suggested mechanisms of improving them.
I think both he, Sri Lanka, the Office of the High Commissioner, and its Senior Advisor in Colombo were lax in not pursuing those recommendations immediately. But we are determined to do so now at least. For instance he had a lot of comments about the Police, and we did have a so-called international police support group, but I'm afraid it did nothing much except - and we are really extremely grateful to the Government of Sweden for this - for a Project on Scene of Crime Investigation. We have written now to Sweden, and to the United Kingdom which also provided some assistance, and crucially to Japan, which had not participated but which I know is very willing to assist us through the Task Force on Police Training.
We also had a lot of criticism with regard to the National Human Rights Commission. And I would like to place on record here our request that you and this Council investigate why the UNDP Stocktaking Report on our National Human Rights Commission, prepared in April 2007 was suppressed for so long. It was not given to the Head of Capacity Building in Geneva, the new UNDP Head in Colombo had not seen it last year. Now he is working on its recommendations, as we have done in suggesting an MoU between our Ministry and the Commission, but the question is why this has taken so long. We hope very much that assistance that was earlier pledged, and then it seems reneged on, is restored, and that we can ensure the development of Regional Centres, using UN Volunteers, for whom indeed at least one friendly country contributed funding that lay unused.
There are other issues that seem to us less serious. Thankfully we no longer hear allegations that our security forces, in their struggle against terror, indiscriminately target civilians. That is a canard that has been disposed of. Not so the allegations about child soldiers that seek also to incriminate the Sri Lankan forces, in a vain attempt to draw attention away from the continuing malpractices of the LTTE. With regard to general allegations about others accused of child recruitment, I refer you to the report I presented to the Human Rights Committee of Liberal International, and which was distributed to all countries that raised the question during the UPR. I fear it has not been read, but this canard too will soon die down. Meanwhile I should note that the last time I responded to the International Educational Development Inc., it was to condemn their pitiful attempt to justify the LTTE use of children over 15, on the to us utterly spurious grounds that international law permitted this.
The consequences of that type of indulgence can be seen in the tragic story of the 17 year old girl rescued in combat last week from the LTTE by Sri Lankan forces. Note that perhaps even more culpable than partisan NGOs in perpetuating such horrors was the carelessness of particular UN officials in Sri Lanka who argued that the LTTE needed to amend legislation to stop using children between 17 and 18. I am thankful that the UN Special Rapporteur, a Sri Lankan herself, and the current head of UNICEF in Sri Lanka, have made it clear that this is intolerable.
Finally we come to the question of a UN Monitoring Mission, which was raised in 12 of the recommendations we rejected, 11 of them from Europe. Mr President, last week we had very fruitful discussions with the European Commission, which reasserted its very friendly attitude to Sri Lanka. We believe this, but with insistent recommendations such as this, we are reminded rather of the affection of an elder sister. I have an elder sister, Mr President, as I am sure many people here do, and one tends to get tired of relentless finger wagging, done with love doubtless but nevertheless irritating. We have explained why we will not accept a UN Monitoring Mission, which is why we found upsetting the claim of the Danish Ambassador that, because we did not accept this recommendation, the whole UPR process seemed nugatory.
However, we believe our Human Rights situation can improve, and we welcome assistance from the Office of the High Commissioner for this purpose. The website of the OHCRC talks about technical support, but this is not forthcoming, and in particular with building up our national institutions. That, Mr President, is what we must do, and we will welcome criticism of current shortcomings, but not on the assumption that we need to be nannied for ever.
But we make all these efforts, Mr President, in the midst of combating terrorism, and in that respect, as my colleague mentioned, we are disappointed at the reaction of some European countries to our pleas to stop terrorist funding. When I mentioned this to Commissioner Fratini last year, he noted that there were inconsistencies. We do not think this is deliberate but, while we are most grateful to the efforts made by for instance France, we would hope others would be the same. I was told by his office that funds were limited, and that funding tended to be used against what was seen as Islamic terrorism. But, just as no man is an island, terrorism is not an isolated phenomenon, and we must all work together to stop it.
We understand there can be legal delays, we understand that tragedies such as the events of yesterday in Pakistan, can occur, but we expect understanding for our progress not being as fast as required, just as we extend understanding for deficiencies in others. But, confident in the understanding and support of our friends and those unequivocally opposed to terrorism, we will continue with our struggle, Mr President, and not be daunted.
Finally, may I take this opportunity, as you give up this august office, to present you with a book we have issued, entitled 'Pursuing Peace, Fighting Falsehood'. Strengthening Human Rights, Eliminating Terrorism, Pursuing Peace and Fighting Falsehoods that distract us are all essential in our determination to restore pluralistic democracy throughout our country.
Just as all member states have shown their willingness during this Review to help us in the first of these, we hope we will have your support for the other three too.
Courtesy : www.lankamission.org
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