Heavy fighting between security forces and Tamil rebels in northern Sri Lanka has left at least 27 people dead, military officials said.
The LTTE lost at least 20 men in pre-dawn clashes Monday on the Jaffna peninsula, according to the defence ministry. Another three Tigers were killed in the Wanni region further south, it added.
Government troops were attempting to break into territory in Wanni where the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) run a mini-state.
The fighting also left two security personnel, including an officer, dead and 30 soldiers wounded on Sunday. Another two were killed and 15 wounded in Jaffna early Monday, officials said.
There was no immediate word from the LTTE about its losses, which could not be confirmed independently.
The pro-rebel Tamilnet.com website said both sides traded artillery fire in the Mannar district, part of the Wanni region.
"The Sri Lanka army had suffered casualties in a ground operation launched Sunday in Thampanai area (in the Wanni)," Tamilnet said without elaborating.
The clashes came after the government's top defence official offered Sunday to halt military action in exchange for a resumption of peace talks stalled since last October.
Troops would not press ahead with an offensive if Tamil rebels agreed to talks, defence ministry secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse told a newspaper amid pressure from the island's key foreign backers to halt the carnage.
"The decision (of war or peace) is theirs and I believe they wouldn't reject this opportunity," Rajapakse told the Sunday Island newspaper.
"We'll not take advantage of the ground situation," if the Tiger rebels agree to negotiate.
Rajapakse, who is also the president's younger brother, made the comments after the United States urged Colombo to abandon a military drive.
There has been no reaction from the Tigers to Rajapakse's offer of talks.
The ethnic conflict, in which the rebels are fighting for an independent homeland for the Tamil minority on the Sinhalese majority island, has claimed more than 60,000 lives since 1972.
(http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070924/wl_sthasia_afp/srilankaunrest_
070924111849&printer=1;_ylt=AixdTkHqG488Ejl5ldb6jTDuOrgF)
Monday, September 24, 2007
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Under fire Sri Lanka offers olive branch to Tamil Tigers
Sri Lankan security forces at Silavattura, an area captured from Tamil Tiger guerrillas. Sri Lanka offered to halt major military operations against Tamil separatists in exchange for peace talks following intense international censure.
Sri Lanka offered Sunday to halt major military operations against Tamil separatists in exchange for peace talks following intense international censure.
The military will not press ahead with a ground offensive if the Tigers agree to talk, Defence Ministry secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse told a newspaper.
The country's top defence official said it was now up to the Tigers to decide if the military should keep up the offensive and urged them to resume peace negotiations which collapsed in October last year.
"The decision (of war or peace) is theirs and I believe they wouldn't reject this opportunity," Rajapakse told the Sunday Island. "We'll not take advantage of the ground situation," if the Tigers agree to negotiate.
Rajapakse, who is also the president's younger brother, made the comments after the island's key international backers led by the United States warned Colombo against pressing ahead with a military drive.
The surprise olive branch came just days after the defence secretary had vowed to crush the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
Rajapakse had on Monday called for stepped up military action to finish off the rebels, which prompted the US ambassador to Sri Lanka to warn there was no military solution to long-running separatist conflict.
Ambassador Robert Blake's remarks came as the Sri Lankan government battled to avoid formal censure at the United Nations Human Rights Council which is reviewing the island's deteriorating rights record in Geneva.
Diplomats said Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse could also face tough questioning during his current visit to New York to address the UN general assembly.
The LTTE has been fighting for a separate state since 1972. More than 5,400 people have been killed in a new wave of fighting since December 2005, when a Norwegian-brokered truce began to unravel.
(http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=8184198)
LTTE's Vishwamadu base hit hard
Sri lanka air force (SLAF) fighter jets carried out consecutive air strikes on LTTE's Vishwamadhu base yesterday (21st) and today (22nd). Initial bombing run was performed at 12.15pm yesterday and the base was hit again by SLAF bombers today at around 7.00 am. The second air strike targeted the LTTE cadres who were engaged in recovering usable items from areas targeted in the first raid. As with most air strikes, LTTE casualty details cannot be confirmed as of now.
Vishwamadhu base was frequently used by LTTE's Imran regiment. Several of their ammunition and fuel dumps were said to be located inside the base premises. UAV footage shows secondary explosions after the initial bombing run which suggest that at least one of the ammo or fuel dumps was hit.
Imran-Pandiyan is regarded as one of the most powerful fighting formations within the LTTE. This unit, along with Charles Anthony brigade, has not been used in any major battle since the 2002 CFA. The tigers seem to be keeping their two most experienced brigades in reserve. LTTE is most likely to use these brigades to defend Wanni from a possible army invasion but the possibility of these units being deployed in a major LTTE offensive to recapture Jaffna peninsula cannot be overruled either.
(http://www.scribd.com/doc/256719/forest-path)
Vishwamadhu base was frequently used by LTTE's Imran regiment. Several of their ammunition and fuel dumps were said to be located inside the base premises. UAV footage shows secondary explosions after the initial bombing run which suggest that at least one of the ammo or fuel dumps was hit.
Imran-Pandiyan is regarded as one of the most powerful fighting formations within the LTTE. This unit, along with Charles Anthony brigade, has not been used in any major battle since the 2002 CFA. The tigers seem to be keeping their two most experienced brigades in reserve. LTTE is most likely to use these brigades to defend Wanni from a possible army invasion but the possibility of these units being deployed in a major LTTE offensive to recapture Jaffna peninsula cannot be overruled either.
(http://www.scribd.com/doc/256719/forest-path)
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Full-scale war imminent on the northern front
If anyone thought that military operations were intended to pressurise the LTTE into coming to the negotiating table, such illusions were effectively dispelled by the Defence Secretary’s frank disclosure. It is no longer a case of bringing the LTTE to the negotiating table through military means for a political settlement. It is now a case of destroying or diminishing the LTTE as a pre-requisite for a political solution
It’s ‘unofficially’ official now! Three things are certain.
There’s going to be a big war in the Northern Province against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
There will be no let up until the objective of vanquishing the Tigers is achieved. Even if it is not feasible, an ongoing relentless attempt will be made.
There won’t be any political solution until and unless the military goal of eradicating ‘terrorism’ (read LTTE) is fulfilled.
Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa emphasised the above three points unambiguously at Trincomalee last week. The occasion was the felicitation ceremony for the navy for reportedly destroying three ships, allegedly carrying arms for the LTTE.
The Defence Secretary’s elder sibling, President Mahinda Rajapaksa was also present as Gotabhaya stated these views but maintained silence, indicating tacit consent. The fact that the Defence Secretary stated so in the presence of the Head of State, Head of Government and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces shows that the sentiments expressed were an ‘officially sanctioned unofficial policy declaration.’ So it’s unofficially official.
Calling the shots
It is also crystal clear now who calls the shots literally and metaphorically as far as war and peace is concerned. Mahinda Samarasinghe may say one thing and Rohitha Bogollagama another, but effective decisions are made and articulated elsewhere. The Minister who repeats these more lucidly than any other of his colleagues is Jeyaraj Fernandopulle.
It was only a few weeks ago that Gotabhaya Rajapaksa spoke forthrightly at a passing out parade about a proposed military advance into the LTTE held areas of the north. This was emphatically denied by some Cabinet ministers but within days the Musali region of Mannar District was taken over in a surprise manoeuvre.
If anyone thought that military operations were intended to pressurise the LTTE into coming to the negotiating table, such illusions were effectively dispelled by the Defence Secretary’s frank disclosure.
It is no longer a case of bringing the LTTE to the negotiating table through military means for a political settlement. It is now a case of destroying or diminishing the LTTE as a pre-requisite for a political solution.
There is a saying about an army marching on its stomach. The cost conscious sections of society might be appalled by the economic consequences of prosecuting a prolonged war. But Gotabhaya Rajapaksa thinks otherwise. “We cannot establish permanent peace in the country by winning only half or two-thirds of the war against terrorism,” he said in Trincomalee.
The Defence Secretary also said “President Rajapaksa cannot implement the desired political solution to the north and east conflict unless LTTE terrorism is defeated 100 percent.”
Defence Secretary’s stance
He said that President Rajapaksa, amidst the economic constraints the country is facing, has given all that is required for the security forces and the police to achieve their task of defeating LTTE terrorism.
On another occasion the Defence Secretary’s erstwhile Commanding Officer and present Army Commander Lt. Gen Sarath Fonseka was posed a question by a media person about the impact of the escalating war on the economy. “It is better to have a bankrupt country than half a country,” was the answer.
This then sums up the military mood. The military option against the LTTE will be pursued relentlessly and diligently regardless of economic or any other consequences. The defence establishment has scented blood. It wants to go in for what it perceives to be an easy kill.
The Bard of Avon wrote of a ‘tide in the affairs of men.’ The defence establishment feels that the security forces are riding the crest of a victorious anti-Tiger wave. The wave has to be ridden until the LTTE is engulfed, it is felt.
There is a frenzy of populist euphoria in the air. It is a combination of the natural and artificial, spontaneous and contrived, real and imaginary. But it is there.
It was Talleyrand I think who warned that “war is too serious a matter to be left in the hands of generals.” But currently in Sri Lanka, that is exactly what is happening. The military and defence hierarchy runs the war and makes policy. The political establishment falls in line.
Some might say this is not healthy for a country but there are few takers for this in the upper echelons of the government. A feeble opposition with an unimaginative leadership is hopelessly unable or unwilling to check this militarisation of the government. Arguably, a national security state is in formation.
Puzzling conduct
The behaviour and conduct of the LTTE in recent times has been, at best, puzzling. The seeming helplessness of the LTTE in the face of Colombo’s military juggernaut has contributed to this new found confidence and determination on the part of the security establishment.
The LTTE is primarily a militant movement fighting for the goal of national liberation. The government depicts it as terrorist while the LTTE self-perception is that of being freedom fighters. One man’s freedom fighter is another man’s terrorist.
Fighting for the lofty objective of national liberation does not automatically remove the terrorist tag if terror tactics are adopted. Likewise, the adoption of terrorist tactics does not automatically disqualify a national liberation movement. One can be both a terrorist and freedom fighter. It is not a case of one or the other.
However, realistically, these distinctions do not manner any more in an increasingly uni-polar world where there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ terrorists. No matter what the ideal is, the use of terrorist methods makes a group or an individual, terrorist. The end does not justify the means after September 11, 2001. All terrorists are ‘evil.’
There is a lot of hypocrisy and double standards here. A state is allowed to adopt all sorts of underhand methods amounting to state terrorism but it is not labelled terrorist. An air force plane can kill innocent civilians by dropping a bomb from the air and get away with it by calling it ‘collateral damage.’
But woe unto a non-state actor planting a bomb that kills civilians intentionally or unintentionally – it will be automatically labelled terrorism and very often does deserve that label. But dropping bombs from an altitude allows greater latitude in getting away from the terrorist label. All states gang up in refusing to admit state terrorism.
Defining terrorism
How does one define the LTTE? Each violent action has to be scrutinised on its own merits to arrive at a definition. The Tigers have three salient aspects when it comes to engaging in violence.
It has the attributes of a conventional militia when it adopts positional warfare. The LTTE fights like an army when it captures or defends territory. The Tigers function as a guerilla force when launching attacks against security force installations or convoys. It is a terrorist outfit whenever it kills innocent civilians through bombs or massacres and assassinates political leaders and other civilians.
Thus, the LTTE can be loosely termed as a self-styled national liberation movement that engages in terrorism at times. Each LTTE action has to be specifically classified into categories of warfare, guerilla tactics or sheer terrorism.
After the LTTE withdrew from the Eastern Province, analysts predicted that all three dimensions of the Tigers would come into play in due course.
The LTTE would engage in positional warfare and fight like a conventional army to retain northern territory. The Tigers would adopt guerilla tactics against security forces in the east. It would assassinate political leaders and destroy economic targets through terrorist methods in Colombo and elsewhere in the south, it was expected.
However, so far, no target has been attacked in Colombo or elsewhere except for the diversionary thrills of a nascent air wing dropping bombs. The limited air strikes too have stopped for some months now.
In the east some limited landmine ambushes have occurred in the Ampara and Trincomalee District jungle adjacent areas, but few attacks were reported in Batticaloa District.
Defending territory
In the north, the LTTE has been stoutly defending areas on the Vavuniya-Mannar District borders and in the Weli Oya/Manal Aaru region. It is also defending territory in the Jaffna Peninsula along the Forward Defence Lines (FDLs) of the Kilaly-Eluthumattuvaal- Nagar Kovil axis. But in the Musali region of Mannar South, the LTTE did not fire a single shot and allowed a walkover.
Even though a major offensive has not been launched by either side, there have been sporadic exchanges of artillery fire between both sides in the Vavuniya-Mannar District borders and also in the peninsula. There has also been regular aerial bombardment and strafing by the air force at positions in the Wanni. The navy too has shelled the coastal areas and also battled the Sea Tigers off the Mullaitivu coast.
It can be seen, therefore, that war related incidents have been happening since April last year. Many civilians in the Wanni have been killed, injured and displaced over the past 17 months.
Both sides are wary of the other launching an ‘invasion’ into their territory. Therefore, bombing and shelling is done by the armed forces on the one hand and shelling by the LTTE on the other to prevent major offensives. There are widely prevalent minor skirmishes. These activities are done to keep the ‘other’ side on its toes and to keep it guessing from where and when the big attack will come.
The preliminary limited strikes and offensives are no substitutes for the real McCoy. They cannot pre-empt or prevent the major offensive, counter-offensive or raid, if and when they are launched.
The armed forces can commence their ground based drives southwards from the peninsula, south-eastwards from Thallady in Mannar, northwards and north-westwards from any point along the Mannar-Vavuniya Road or from Omanthai or the Iranai Iluppaikulam Road or from Maamaduwa or the Weli-Oya/Manal Aaru region.
Sea-borne invasions across the Jaffna lagoon towards the Mannar-Poonagary coast or via the northern seas on the Mullaitivu-Chundikulam coast are also possible.
Defensive strategy
The LTTE too can commence major attacks on several possible targets. A sea-borne operation across the lagoon into the peninsula, a ground based offensive from Muhamaalai or Nagar Kovil points; attacks on army camps in Mannar, Vavuniya and Weli-Oya sector are also possible. A long shot could be incursions via jungles into Medawachchiya, Kebethigollewe, Padaviya, etc.
By all accounts the Tigers seem to be adopting a defensive strategy for now. LTTE Political Chief S.P. Tamilselvan said recently that the Tigers were maintaining “patience intentionally.” This strategy may have certain politico-military reasons.
In the first place, the LTTE is heavily disadvantaged vis-à-vis the armed forces in terms of manpower, firepower, airpower, naval power and armoured vehicle power. This places the Tigers in a very weak position.
Therefore, it would naturally be reluctant to hold on to extensive territory. The Tigers will yield some territory in order to prevent over stretching and dilution of personnel. To cite a phrase used by defence analysts, they will “trade space for time.”
What will this time be used for? Obviously, strengthening defences and recruiting cadres is one. This is happening now. But the Tigers will prolong the war in the hope that the time gained will work against Colombo. Rising defence costs will drain the Treasury and increase the cost of living and inflation. Economic problems can cause social and political unrest.
The armed forces may over extend themselves in the bid to gain more real estate. If they bite more than they can chew, the LTTE would like to make them choke.
The mounting tally of alleged human rights violations and civilian casualties caused by the armed forces can discredit the regime internationally. There may come a point where international intervention becomes inevitable.
The Tigers also expect stirrings in Tamil Nadu and related impact in New Delhi. There is also the expectation that the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and abroad will rally around the LTTE as the war escalates and civilian suffering increases.
Vital rear base
Even if the LTTE Political Commissar’s claim of exercising patience is true, the security establishment is in no mood to believe it. It will be seen as the LTTE making a virtue out of necessity as the view in defence circles is that the Tigers are weak and vulnerable. Therefore, the resolve to go on the offensive will gain strength.
However, there is a point beyond which the LTTE cannot retreat, lie low or exercise patience. This is because the Wanni heartland is, in guerilla parlance, the rear base of the LTTE. It is very vital to the Tigers that they retain control of a swathe of territory with access to the sea. The LTTE has to offer fierce resistance to preserve some territory at least.
The Tigers have strengthened defences and are ready to adopt positional warfare to defend this territory. Apparently, the Tigers have set up three ‘defence rings’ – A primary outer ring around most territory under their control, a secondary inner ring around key areas in Kilinochchi, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu, and a tertiary line of defence around strategic areas of the north-eastern sector.
The fact that this primary defensive outer line has been able to prevent government incursions on the Vavuniya-Mannar borders and inside the peninsula shows the determination and grit of the LTTE to resist military advances.
Unlike what happened in the east or the peninsula when defeated, the Tigers have no place to go if the Wanni is overrun. So the Tigers, fighting a desperate battle to safeguard their rear base, will fight hard when the time comes.
The Tigers may even adopt their customary tactic of letting the enemy advance and then hit back swiftly and hard. This was well demonstrated during the conflict of the nineties.
Armed forces strategy
But the armed forces strategy devised by the Sarath-Gotabhaya duo is not likely to be a mechanical repetition of the disastrous approach under ‘Gen.’ Anuruddha Ratwatte during ‘Operation Jayasikuru’ in the nineties.
It is more likely that the government will adopt the ruthless double-track strategy adopted successfully in the east: A widespread campaign of bombing and shelling on a broad scale on points throughout the region on the one hand and on the other, a sustained campaign of intensive concentrated attacks on a limited target area.
The civilians are uprooted and their dwellings and infrastructural facilities demolished. After civilians leave a particular area and move to another place, the vacated place is shelled and bombed to saturation point. Then the army advances on ground, consolidates and establishes control of a limited area.
Thereafter, this process is repeated again and again. In a slow, systematic manner, the armed forces advance and hold target areas while the civilian population flees from place to place or to government areas. This is what happened in stages in the east and after 15 months, the armed forces dominate the province now.
Moreover, unofficial embargoes on food, medicine, fuel and essential items will be imposed as was done in the east. Transport and movement of people will be restricted. Payment of salaries of government employees, including teachers, will be suspended. Agriculture, fisheries and cottage industries will be reduced to a standstill.
If the armed forces have their way as they did in the east, this scenario is likely to happen in the north too.
This strategy will certainly cause immense hardship to the civilians. But judging from the apathy and silence of the international community towards the tragic civilian plight in the east, there seems very little chance of any foreign pressure to make Colombo call off the war or abandon its hard-line strategy.
Beginning of the end
Though Sinhala hawks would like the armed forces to go in quickly and finish off the Tigers, the defence establishment is not likely to rush in. Plans and preparations will be made carefully and cautiously.
However, it seems highly improbable that the Tigers will passively wait for the government to enfeeble, encircle and then engulf them. Contrary to optimistic assertions in Colombo, the LTTE is not both down and out. It is only down, but not fully out. Past experience has shown that the Tigers crouch to pounce.
If the armed forces succeed in dislodging the Tigers from their entrenched positions in the Wanni, it can only mean the beginning of the end. So the Tigers will fiercely resist such moves. It is a back-to-the-wall situation
This resistance is not likely to be reactive alone. There could be counter-offensives and counter-strikes that could change the situation drastically. Also, this counter-strategy need not be confined specifically to the battlefields.
Another moot point having a bearing on the war situation is the approaching ‘Maa Veerar Naal’ (Great Heroes’ Day) on November 27. What will Prabhakaran say on that day? Conversely, what will the armed forces allow him to say on that day?
Whatever the situation, full-scale war seems inevitable and imminent. Even the raging monsoon rains may not be able to deter its pace or intensity.
The fluctuating fortunes of war may be fickle and fluid. But one thing is certain. The civilians are going to suffer. The misery of the east will be repeated in the north. The tragic plight of recently displaced Tamils and Muslims from Mannar South is a sad pointer of things to come in this respect.
(http://www.nation.lk/2007/09/23/newsfe2.htm)
It’s ‘unofficially’ official now! Three things are certain.
There’s going to be a big war in the Northern Province against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
There will be no let up until the objective of vanquishing the Tigers is achieved. Even if it is not feasible, an ongoing relentless attempt will be made.
There won’t be any political solution until and unless the military goal of eradicating ‘terrorism’ (read LTTE) is fulfilled.
Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa emphasised the above three points unambiguously at Trincomalee last week. The occasion was the felicitation ceremony for the navy for reportedly destroying three ships, allegedly carrying arms for the LTTE.
The Defence Secretary’s elder sibling, President Mahinda Rajapaksa was also present as Gotabhaya stated these views but maintained silence, indicating tacit consent. The fact that the Defence Secretary stated so in the presence of the Head of State, Head of Government and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces shows that the sentiments expressed were an ‘officially sanctioned unofficial policy declaration.’ So it’s unofficially official.
Calling the shots
It is also crystal clear now who calls the shots literally and metaphorically as far as war and peace is concerned. Mahinda Samarasinghe may say one thing and Rohitha Bogollagama another, but effective decisions are made and articulated elsewhere. The Minister who repeats these more lucidly than any other of his colleagues is Jeyaraj Fernandopulle.
It was only a few weeks ago that Gotabhaya Rajapaksa spoke forthrightly at a passing out parade about a proposed military advance into the LTTE held areas of the north. This was emphatically denied by some Cabinet ministers but within days the Musali region of Mannar District was taken over in a surprise manoeuvre.
If anyone thought that military operations were intended to pressurise the LTTE into coming to the negotiating table, such illusions were effectively dispelled by the Defence Secretary’s frank disclosure.
It is no longer a case of bringing the LTTE to the negotiating table through military means for a political settlement. It is now a case of destroying or diminishing the LTTE as a pre-requisite for a political solution.
There is a saying about an army marching on its stomach. The cost conscious sections of society might be appalled by the economic consequences of prosecuting a prolonged war. But Gotabhaya Rajapaksa thinks otherwise. “We cannot establish permanent peace in the country by winning only half or two-thirds of the war against terrorism,” he said in Trincomalee.
The Defence Secretary also said “President Rajapaksa cannot implement the desired political solution to the north and east conflict unless LTTE terrorism is defeated 100 percent.”
Defence Secretary’s stance
He said that President Rajapaksa, amidst the economic constraints the country is facing, has given all that is required for the security forces and the police to achieve their task of defeating LTTE terrorism.
On another occasion the Defence Secretary’s erstwhile Commanding Officer and present Army Commander Lt. Gen Sarath Fonseka was posed a question by a media person about the impact of the escalating war on the economy. “It is better to have a bankrupt country than half a country,” was the answer.
This then sums up the military mood. The military option against the LTTE will be pursued relentlessly and diligently regardless of economic or any other consequences. The defence establishment has scented blood. It wants to go in for what it perceives to be an easy kill.
The Bard of Avon wrote of a ‘tide in the affairs of men.’ The defence establishment feels that the security forces are riding the crest of a victorious anti-Tiger wave. The wave has to be ridden until the LTTE is engulfed, it is felt.
There is a frenzy of populist euphoria in the air. It is a combination of the natural and artificial, spontaneous and contrived, real and imaginary. But it is there.
It was Talleyrand I think who warned that “war is too serious a matter to be left in the hands of generals.” But currently in Sri Lanka, that is exactly what is happening. The military and defence hierarchy runs the war and makes policy. The political establishment falls in line.
Some might say this is not healthy for a country but there are few takers for this in the upper echelons of the government. A feeble opposition with an unimaginative leadership is hopelessly unable or unwilling to check this militarisation of the government. Arguably, a national security state is in formation.
Puzzling conduct
The behaviour and conduct of the LTTE in recent times has been, at best, puzzling. The seeming helplessness of the LTTE in the face of Colombo’s military juggernaut has contributed to this new found confidence and determination on the part of the security establishment.
The LTTE is primarily a militant movement fighting for the goal of national liberation. The government depicts it as terrorist while the LTTE self-perception is that of being freedom fighters. One man’s freedom fighter is another man’s terrorist.
Fighting for the lofty objective of national liberation does not automatically remove the terrorist tag if terror tactics are adopted. Likewise, the adoption of terrorist tactics does not automatically disqualify a national liberation movement. One can be both a terrorist and freedom fighter. It is not a case of one or the other.
However, realistically, these distinctions do not manner any more in an increasingly uni-polar world where there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ terrorists. No matter what the ideal is, the use of terrorist methods makes a group or an individual, terrorist. The end does not justify the means after September 11, 2001. All terrorists are ‘evil.’
There is a lot of hypocrisy and double standards here. A state is allowed to adopt all sorts of underhand methods amounting to state terrorism but it is not labelled terrorist. An air force plane can kill innocent civilians by dropping a bomb from the air and get away with it by calling it ‘collateral damage.’
But woe unto a non-state actor planting a bomb that kills civilians intentionally or unintentionally – it will be automatically labelled terrorism and very often does deserve that label. But dropping bombs from an altitude allows greater latitude in getting away from the terrorist label. All states gang up in refusing to admit state terrorism.
Defining terrorism
How does one define the LTTE? Each violent action has to be scrutinised on its own merits to arrive at a definition. The Tigers have three salient aspects when it comes to engaging in violence.
It has the attributes of a conventional militia when it adopts positional warfare. The LTTE fights like an army when it captures or defends territory. The Tigers function as a guerilla force when launching attacks against security force installations or convoys. It is a terrorist outfit whenever it kills innocent civilians through bombs or massacres and assassinates political leaders and other civilians.
Thus, the LTTE can be loosely termed as a self-styled national liberation movement that engages in terrorism at times. Each LTTE action has to be specifically classified into categories of warfare, guerilla tactics or sheer terrorism.
After the LTTE withdrew from the Eastern Province, analysts predicted that all three dimensions of the Tigers would come into play in due course.
The LTTE would engage in positional warfare and fight like a conventional army to retain northern territory. The Tigers would adopt guerilla tactics against security forces in the east. It would assassinate political leaders and destroy economic targets through terrorist methods in Colombo and elsewhere in the south, it was expected.
However, so far, no target has been attacked in Colombo or elsewhere except for the diversionary thrills of a nascent air wing dropping bombs. The limited air strikes too have stopped for some months now.
In the east some limited landmine ambushes have occurred in the Ampara and Trincomalee District jungle adjacent areas, but few attacks were reported in Batticaloa District.
Defending territory
In the north, the LTTE has been stoutly defending areas on the Vavuniya-Mannar District borders and in the Weli Oya/Manal Aaru region. It is also defending territory in the Jaffna Peninsula along the Forward Defence Lines (FDLs) of the Kilaly-Eluthumattuvaal- Nagar Kovil axis. But in the Musali region of Mannar South, the LTTE did not fire a single shot and allowed a walkover.
Even though a major offensive has not been launched by either side, there have been sporadic exchanges of artillery fire between both sides in the Vavuniya-Mannar District borders and also in the peninsula. There has also been regular aerial bombardment and strafing by the air force at positions in the Wanni. The navy too has shelled the coastal areas and also battled the Sea Tigers off the Mullaitivu coast.
It can be seen, therefore, that war related incidents have been happening since April last year. Many civilians in the Wanni have been killed, injured and displaced over the past 17 months.
Both sides are wary of the other launching an ‘invasion’ into their territory. Therefore, bombing and shelling is done by the armed forces on the one hand and shelling by the LTTE on the other to prevent major offensives. There are widely prevalent minor skirmishes. These activities are done to keep the ‘other’ side on its toes and to keep it guessing from where and when the big attack will come.
The preliminary limited strikes and offensives are no substitutes for the real McCoy. They cannot pre-empt or prevent the major offensive, counter-offensive or raid, if and when they are launched.
The armed forces can commence their ground based drives southwards from the peninsula, south-eastwards from Thallady in Mannar, northwards and north-westwards from any point along the Mannar-Vavuniya Road or from Omanthai or the Iranai Iluppaikulam Road or from Maamaduwa or the Weli-Oya/Manal Aaru region.
Sea-borne invasions across the Jaffna lagoon towards the Mannar-Poonagary coast or via the northern seas on the Mullaitivu-Chundikulam coast are also possible.
Defensive strategy
The LTTE too can commence major attacks on several possible targets. A sea-borne operation across the lagoon into the peninsula, a ground based offensive from Muhamaalai or Nagar Kovil points; attacks on army camps in Mannar, Vavuniya and Weli-Oya sector are also possible. A long shot could be incursions via jungles into Medawachchiya, Kebethigollewe, Padaviya, etc.
By all accounts the Tigers seem to be adopting a defensive strategy for now. LTTE Political Chief S.P. Tamilselvan said recently that the Tigers were maintaining “patience intentionally.” This strategy may have certain politico-military reasons.
In the first place, the LTTE is heavily disadvantaged vis-à-vis the armed forces in terms of manpower, firepower, airpower, naval power and armoured vehicle power. This places the Tigers in a very weak position.
Therefore, it would naturally be reluctant to hold on to extensive territory. The Tigers will yield some territory in order to prevent over stretching and dilution of personnel. To cite a phrase used by defence analysts, they will “trade space for time.”
What will this time be used for? Obviously, strengthening defences and recruiting cadres is one. This is happening now. But the Tigers will prolong the war in the hope that the time gained will work against Colombo. Rising defence costs will drain the Treasury and increase the cost of living and inflation. Economic problems can cause social and political unrest.
The armed forces may over extend themselves in the bid to gain more real estate. If they bite more than they can chew, the LTTE would like to make them choke.
The mounting tally of alleged human rights violations and civilian casualties caused by the armed forces can discredit the regime internationally. There may come a point where international intervention becomes inevitable.
The Tigers also expect stirrings in Tamil Nadu and related impact in New Delhi. There is also the expectation that the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and abroad will rally around the LTTE as the war escalates and civilian suffering increases.
Vital rear base
Even if the LTTE Political Commissar’s claim of exercising patience is true, the security establishment is in no mood to believe it. It will be seen as the LTTE making a virtue out of necessity as the view in defence circles is that the Tigers are weak and vulnerable. Therefore, the resolve to go on the offensive will gain strength.
However, there is a point beyond which the LTTE cannot retreat, lie low or exercise patience. This is because the Wanni heartland is, in guerilla parlance, the rear base of the LTTE. It is very vital to the Tigers that they retain control of a swathe of territory with access to the sea. The LTTE has to offer fierce resistance to preserve some territory at least.
The Tigers have strengthened defences and are ready to adopt positional warfare to defend this territory. Apparently, the Tigers have set up three ‘defence rings’ – A primary outer ring around most territory under their control, a secondary inner ring around key areas in Kilinochchi, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu, and a tertiary line of defence around strategic areas of the north-eastern sector.
The fact that this primary defensive outer line has been able to prevent government incursions on the Vavuniya-Mannar borders and inside the peninsula shows the determination and grit of the LTTE to resist military advances.
Unlike what happened in the east or the peninsula when defeated, the Tigers have no place to go if the Wanni is overrun. So the Tigers, fighting a desperate battle to safeguard their rear base, will fight hard when the time comes.
The Tigers may even adopt their customary tactic of letting the enemy advance and then hit back swiftly and hard. This was well demonstrated during the conflict of the nineties.
Armed forces strategy
But the armed forces strategy devised by the Sarath-Gotabhaya duo is not likely to be a mechanical repetition of the disastrous approach under ‘Gen.’ Anuruddha Ratwatte during ‘Operation Jayasikuru’ in the nineties.
It is more likely that the government will adopt the ruthless double-track strategy adopted successfully in the east: A widespread campaign of bombing and shelling on a broad scale on points throughout the region on the one hand and on the other, a sustained campaign of intensive concentrated attacks on a limited target area.
The civilians are uprooted and their dwellings and infrastructural facilities demolished. After civilians leave a particular area and move to another place, the vacated place is shelled and bombed to saturation point. Then the army advances on ground, consolidates and establishes control of a limited area.
Thereafter, this process is repeated again and again. In a slow, systematic manner, the armed forces advance and hold target areas while the civilian population flees from place to place or to government areas. This is what happened in stages in the east and after 15 months, the armed forces dominate the province now.
Moreover, unofficial embargoes on food, medicine, fuel and essential items will be imposed as was done in the east. Transport and movement of people will be restricted. Payment of salaries of government employees, including teachers, will be suspended. Agriculture, fisheries and cottage industries will be reduced to a standstill.
If the armed forces have their way as they did in the east, this scenario is likely to happen in the north too.
This strategy will certainly cause immense hardship to the civilians. But judging from the apathy and silence of the international community towards the tragic civilian plight in the east, there seems very little chance of any foreign pressure to make Colombo call off the war or abandon its hard-line strategy.
Beginning of the end
Though Sinhala hawks would like the armed forces to go in quickly and finish off the Tigers, the defence establishment is not likely to rush in. Plans and preparations will be made carefully and cautiously.
However, it seems highly improbable that the Tigers will passively wait for the government to enfeeble, encircle and then engulf them. Contrary to optimistic assertions in Colombo, the LTTE is not both down and out. It is only down, but not fully out. Past experience has shown that the Tigers crouch to pounce.
If the armed forces succeed in dislodging the Tigers from their entrenched positions in the Wanni, it can only mean the beginning of the end. So the Tigers will fiercely resist such moves. It is a back-to-the-wall situation
This resistance is not likely to be reactive alone. There could be counter-offensives and counter-strikes that could change the situation drastically. Also, this counter-strategy need not be confined specifically to the battlefields.
Another moot point having a bearing on the war situation is the approaching ‘Maa Veerar Naal’ (Great Heroes’ Day) on November 27. What will Prabhakaran say on that day? Conversely, what will the armed forces allow him to say on that day?
Whatever the situation, full-scale war seems inevitable and imminent. Even the raging monsoon rains may not be able to deter its pace or intensity.
The fluctuating fortunes of war may be fickle and fluid. But one thing is certain. The civilians are going to suffer. The misery of the east will be repeated in the north. The tragic plight of recently displaced Tamils and Muslims from Mannar South is a sad pointer of things to come in this respect.
(http://www.nation.lk/2007/09/23/newsfe2.htm)
Air strike on LTTE leadership confab
Site turned into inferno
Air Force fighter jets yesterday bombed a location where a leadership meeting of the LTTE was in progress in Mullaithivu inflicting large scale death and destruction on the outfit.
Security sources said the pilots had observed a massive inferno following the bombings of the building network which also served as an ammunition dump.
"The precise target was destroyed while the LTTE high rankers were gathered," Military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said. Fighter jets Mig27 and Kafir carried out the air strike targeting the key tiger position in Vishvamadu in the Tiger stronghold of Mullaithivu at around 12.15 p.m.
"The target was accurate and precise according to the ground intelligence and air based surveillance," the Brigadier said.
He said the air strike was carried out while the LTTE leaders were gathered at a meeting. This was a location where key LTTE leaders met regularly to discuss military strategy.
"We are yet unable to confirm the number of casualties as the target was located in the uncleared area", he added.
Air Force fighters also confirmed that the aim was accurate and that a huge fire was observed. The Vishvamadu base was one of the key LTTE bases in the North, Brigadier said.
"The air strike was carried out on the LTTE base complex also consisting of an arms an ammunition dump which exploded in the strike.
"The LTTE Headquarters 'Imran Pandian' regiment also was located in the vicinity. From this base the Tiger cadres were ferrying weapons to other locations," he pointed out. Meanwhile, three civilians were injured in an LTTE claymore blast targeting the STF foot patrol yesterday at around 2.05 p.m. in Chawalakade, Ampara.
According to Brigadier Nanayakkara the LTTE cadres detonated a claymore mine targeting the STF in Chawalakada, Ampara-Kalmunai road.
"Three civilians who were travelling in a cab got caught to the LTTE claymore mine and were severely injured in the blast," he added.
The injured civilians were admitted to the Kalmunai hospital.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/22/sec01.asp)
Air Force fighter jets yesterday bombed a location where a leadership meeting of the LTTE was in progress in Mullaithivu inflicting large scale death and destruction on the outfit.
Security sources said the pilots had observed a massive inferno following the bombings of the building network which also served as an ammunition dump.
"The precise target was destroyed while the LTTE high rankers were gathered," Military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said. Fighter jets Mig27 and Kafir carried out the air strike targeting the key tiger position in Vishvamadu in the Tiger stronghold of Mullaithivu at around 12.15 p.m.
"The target was accurate and precise according to the ground intelligence and air based surveillance," the Brigadier said.
He said the air strike was carried out while the LTTE leaders were gathered at a meeting. This was a location where key LTTE leaders met regularly to discuss military strategy.
"We are yet unable to confirm the number of casualties as the target was located in the uncleared area", he added.
Air Force fighters also confirmed that the aim was accurate and that a huge fire was observed. The Vishvamadu base was one of the key LTTE bases in the North, Brigadier said.
"The air strike was carried out on the LTTE base complex also consisting of an arms an ammunition dump which exploded in the strike.
"The LTTE Headquarters 'Imran Pandian' regiment also was located in the vicinity. From this base the Tiger cadres were ferrying weapons to other locations," he pointed out. Meanwhile, three civilians were injured in an LTTE claymore blast targeting the STF foot patrol yesterday at around 2.05 p.m. in Chawalakade, Ampara.
According to Brigadier Nanayakkara the LTTE cadres detonated a claymore mine targeting the STF in Chawalakada, Ampara-Kalmunai road.
"Three civilians who were travelling in a cab got caught to the LTTE claymore mine and were severely injured in the blast," he added.
The injured civilians were admitted to the Kalmunai hospital.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/22/sec01.asp)
Bus driver killed in claymore attack
One civilian was killed and two injured when LTTE cadres exploded a claymore mine targeting a bus carrying civilians along the Trincomalee-Sallisambaltivu area around 11.45 a.m. yesterday, military officials said.
The driver of the bus was killed in the incident which occurred when the bus was proceeding from Trincomalee to Irrakkandi Road. Meanwhile Air Force fighterjets launched another attack in the area around the LTTE Vishvamadu base in Mullaitivu yesterday morning, targeting LTTE cadres who were engaged in attempting to salvage what remained from Friday’s air attack on this site, the Media Centre for National Security said.
It said Friday’s attack had destroyed the LTTE base complex consisting of large arms and ammunitions dumps and which was also reportedly the location for the LTTE's special "regiment" (Imran Pandiyan). The Military said the LTTE facility was a regular visiting place for key terrorist leaders.The LTTE denied the claims and said what was attacked was a TRO office and several civilians were injured in the attacks.
(http://www.sundaytimes.lk/070923/News/news0004.html)
The driver of the bus was killed in the incident which occurred when the bus was proceeding from Trincomalee to Irrakkandi Road. Meanwhile Air Force fighterjets launched another attack in the area around the LTTE Vishvamadu base in Mullaitivu yesterday morning, targeting LTTE cadres who were engaged in attempting to salvage what remained from Friday’s air attack on this site, the Media Centre for National Security said.
It said Friday’s attack had destroyed the LTTE base complex consisting of large arms and ammunitions dumps and which was also reportedly the location for the LTTE's special "regiment" (Imran Pandiyan). The Military said the LTTE facility was a regular visiting place for key terrorist leaders.The LTTE denied the claims and said what was attacked was a TRO office and several civilians were injured in the attacks.
(http://www.sundaytimes.lk/070923/News/news0004.html)
LTTE targets Tamil bus passengers in Samabalthievu killing bus driver and injuring two passengers
Sri Lankan policemen inspect the scene of a roadside bomb explosion in Trincomalee, about 257 km (160 miles) east of Colombo, September 22, 2007. A suspected Tamil Tiger roadside bomb hit a civilian bus in the island's northeast on Saturday killing the driver, police said.
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the separatist terrorist organization, continues to harass the Tamil civilians and this time by detonating a claymore mine targeting a private bus plying between Trincomalee and Irakkandi .
The bus driver Suntharam of the private bus was killed and two passengers were injured. The injured passengers are admitted to Trincomalee hospital.
The bus with its full capacity was proceeding along Trincomalee – Nilaveli Road when LTTE terrorists cadres detonated the claymore mine, most probably taking cover behind some buildings. The incident took place around 11.45 AM in Salli, a Tamil village, located in Sambalthievu, seven kilometers off the East of Trincomalee.
Uppuveli police are investigating the incident
LTTE’s strategic locations destroyed
For the second day in a row, the Air Force claimed to have bombed “strategic” locations of the Tamil Tigers in Mullathivu district.
The Defence Ministry said the jets “destroyed a strategically important LTTE facility in precision air strikes”. “The air sorties were carried out at an LTTE base complex consisting of large arms and ammunitions dumps which was also said to be a harbouring location for the LTTE’s special ‘regiment’ (Imran Pandiyan). The air strikes were based on accurate air and ground surveillance information.”
It said strikes were also launched on a place where high-ranking terrorists meet. It said the pilots had reported heavy activity in the camp.
Separately, three civilians were killed when suspected LTTE cadres detonated a claymore mine in Ampara district.
(http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/22/stories/2007092256031600.htm)
The Defence Ministry said the jets “destroyed a strategically important LTTE facility in precision air strikes”. “The air sorties were carried out at an LTTE base complex consisting of large arms and ammunitions dumps which was also said to be a harbouring location for the LTTE’s special ‘regiment’ (Imran Pandiyan). The air strikes were based on accurate air and ground surveillance information.”
It said strikes were also launched on a place where high-ranking terrorists meet. It said the pilots had reported heavy activity in the camp.
Separately, three civilians were killed when suspected LTTE cadres detonated a claymore mine in Ampara district.
(http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/22/stories/2007092256031600.htm)
Sri Lanka says jets bomb rebel leaders' meeting
Sri Lankan fighter jets bombed a Tamil Tiger military base in the rebel-held far north on Friday triggering multiple explosions, the air force said, while a suspected rebel roadside bomb killed one civilian in the east.
The air strike near the town of Puthukkudiyiruppu in the northern district of Mullaittivu was targeted at top leaders of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam and was the second such raid in the area in as many days.
"We got to know through intelligence there was a high ranking meeting of the LTTE, so we took the target," said Air Force spokesman Group Captain Ajantha De Silva.
"It was an LTTE military complex called Imbran Pandian regiment." He had no details of any casualties.
The LTTE who say they are fighting for an independent state for minority ethnic Tamils in the north and east, said in an email the bombs had damaged homes but caused no casualties.
However they were not immediately available for comment on a roadside bomb attack in the eastern district of Batticaloa, which killed one civilian and wounded two others. The army said the rebels were responsible.
Following another raid in the area on Thursday, in which the military said it destroyed a rebel munitions store, the Tigers said the bombs had damaged houses and wounded six civilians.
There was no independent confirmation of what the jets hit on Thursday or Friday, how many people were killed or what had happened and analysts say both sides exaggerate enemy losses amid a parallel The bombings come on the heels of a new offensive launched by the Sri Lankan military this month to drive the rebels from the northwestern district of Mannar, after pushing them out from jungle terrain they controlled in the east earlier this year.
An estimated 5,000 people have died since early last year alone in renewed fighting after a peace process collapsed. Nearly 70,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced since the war erupted in 1983.
(http://in.reuters.com/article/southAsiaNews/idINIndia-29655320070921?pageNumber=2)
The air strike near the town of Puthukkudiyiruppu in the northern district of Mullaittivu was targeted at top leaders of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam and was the second such raid in the area in as many days.
"We got to know through intelligence there was a high ranking meeting of the LTTE, so we took the target," said Air Force spokesman Group Captain Ajantha De Silva.
"It was an LTTE military complex called Imbran Pandian regiment." He had no details of any casualties.
The LTTE who say they are fighting for an independent state for minority ethnic Tamils in the north and east, said in an email the bombs had damaged homes but caused no casualties.
However they were not immediately available for comment on a roadside bomb attack in the eastern district of Batticaloa, which killed one civilian and wounded two others. The army said the rebels were responsible.
Following another raid in the area on Thursday, in which the military said it destroyed a rebel munitions store, the Tigers said the bombs had damaged houses and wounded six civilians.
There was no independent confirmation of what the jets hit on Thursday or Friday, how many people were killed or what had happened and analysts say both sides exaggerate enemy losses amid a parallel The bombings come on the heels of a new offensive launched by the Sri Lankan military this month to drive the rebels from the northwestern district of Mannar, after pushing them out from jungle terrain they controlled in the east earlier this year.
An estimated 5,000 people have died since early last year alone in renewed fighting after a peace process collapsed. Nearly 70,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced since the war erupted in 1983.
(http://in.reuters.com/article/southAsiaNews/idINIndia-29655320070921?pageNumber=2)
Sri Lanka Air Force strikes LTTE leaders' meeting in Northeast, claymore blast kills a civilian
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets today struck and destroyed a LTTE meeting place and a strategically important LTTE arms facility triggering multiple explosions in the Mullaitivu area in the northeast while a civilian was killed in a claymore blast in the East, the military said.
Air attacks were carried out at a LTTE base complex that housed large arms and ammunitions following accurate air and ground surveillance information, a defence official said.
Air Force also effectively struck an LTTE meeting place in the area, where high raking LTTE leaders regularly meet inflicting heavy damages, sources said. Simultaneous explosions were observed from the site, following the air raid, pilots confirmed. However, the exact number of LTTE casualties is yet to be known, the sources added.
The air sorties were carried for a third day in the rebel held Mullaitivu area which has been identified as a key LTTE activity area.
Meanwhile a civilian was killed and two others sustained injuries when suspected Tigers detonated a roadside claymore mine targeting a delivery van along the Chavalkade- Mandur road , at general area of Chavalkade in Kalmunai, Ampara district, this afternoon. The driver of the van later succumbed to his injuries.
(http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/September21122450CH.html)
Air attacks were carried out at a LTTE base complex that housed large arms and ammunitions following accurate air and ground surveillance information, a defence official said.
Air Force also effectively struck an LTTE meeting place in the area, where high raking LTTE leaders regularly meet inflicting heavy damages, sources said. Simultaneous explosions were observed from the site, following the air raid, pilots confirmed. However, the exact number of LTTE casualties is yet to be known, the sources added.
The air sorties were carried for a third day in the rebel held Mullaitivu area which has been identified as a key LTTE activity area.
Meanwhile a civilian was killed and two others sustained injuries when suspected Tigers detonated a roadside claymore mine targeting a delivery van along the Chavalkade- Mandur road , at general area of Chavalkade in Kalmunai, Ampara district, this afternoon. The driver of the van later succumbed to his injuries.
(http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/September21122450CH.html)
Nedumaran phobia?
“I have been looking through binoculars but I cannot see any boats”. It was the latter part of 1983 after the notorious July riots that killed many Tamils. An executive, with at least half a dozen degrees to adorn his name in his business card, called me from his 6th floor office of a century old colonial company, bearing an English name, and opposite to the Central Bank of Ceylon. As I did not know how to answer, I controlled my laughter and wondered to myself how such a frog in the well could obtain so much excellence in his educational career. “He came to Dhanuskodi coast with his followers but he was arrested by the Tamilnadu police and the game is over” was my reply.
Seeing the hype created presently by the Sri Lankan politicians, government and the media, I may say Nedumaran has, after 24 years once again emerged as a ‘hero’ in Sri Lanka. Comments made by many alarmists about his venture, clearly exposed their ignorance of Indian politics – particularly Tamilnadu politics. One carried an opposition parliamentarian’s comments as; He also said that Nedumaran had the backing of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi. “The Central Government of India backs Nedumaran as the support of his party is needed for it to survive. Therefore the Sri Lankan government should act with circumspection.”
I did not know what to say except controlling my laughter and wondering to myself about their lack of knowledge of the immediate neighbourhood. To me this parliamentarian does not seem to be anything better than the binocular man of 1983. Karunanithi and Jayalalitha are at logger heads with Nedumaran and imprisoned him a few times during their tenure. I wish to ask the member in what way Central Government of India backs Nedumaran whose face the cabinet [except Tamils] might have not seen at all even in news papers?
In every political party there would be one or two dedicated to follow events of a particular country, and only that particular person would comment on the happenings there. In Lanka it looks such things don’t exist. Don’t worry even the present President of the most powerful country, six months prior to his election did not know where India was, what the Prime Minister’s name was. If you are a regular TV news viewer you would agree that nowadays, it is proved politics does not need intelligence only guns, sorry guts – to do any thing. Nedumaran started his political career with the DMK and later moved over to Congress with a group that collided with Karunanithi. In 1978 when Mrs.Indira Gandhi visited Madurai he was her escort. At one point when a DMK man threw a deadly weapon at Mrs.Gandhi, Nedumaran saved her. This incident gave him prominence in all India political circles, but strengthened the enmity with Karunanithi and the DMK. Even now on the 12th and before, he shouted anti Karunanithi slogans and accused him as, just because of his lack of concern for the Tamils of Eelam only, the people in Eelam suffer - starve to this extent.
Surprisingly Congress and the DMK formed an alliance for the 1980 state legislature election to fight MGR. Nedumaran who was against DMK left the party to form his own as Tamilnadu Kamaraj Congress Party and went along with MGR, winning three seats. In the meantime his friendship with Tamil militants especially the LTTE grew and his legislature hostel room in Madras [like Sirawasthi] became a safe house to LTTErs like Baby, Kittu and another one person who wanted to keep his presence secret. The Pondy Bazaar shooting incident made police arrest Uma Magheswaran who was injured and also the one who injured him, whose head carried Rs.300,000 rewards for killing Jaffna’s Mayor Alfred Duraiappa. As Baby sought help, Nedumaran visited the prison and was shocked to be introduced to a person hitherto was said to be in Jaffna. “Sorry” was the first word Pirabhakaran uttered to Nedumaran who took it easy with a smile. The court ordered Pirabhakaran to be in Madurai and this cemented the relationship between the two. The fugitive finally wanted to leave India on January 4, 1987. “Have you made all arrangements?” “Yes I am informing you only. Nobody else knows about my plans. If we remain here we will not be able to take independent decisions for our people’s welfare” he added. “There is a plan to have me killed in Madras or New Delhi. The danger will remain as long as I remain here. Our struggle will intensify if I return to Eelam”. Pirabhakaran left for Jaffna. As said Nedumaran was the one only Indian who knew about his exit.
Who is Nedumaran? He is a good orator, a lover of Tamil language and its culture, a simple living man who does not yearn for a Mercedes Benz, but a public commuter. Above all, he is a sympathizer of the LTTE leader and his struggle. That made him to give up national politics and become an admirer cum advisor to the Tigers. He helped the movement a lot at crucial times and took care of the Tiger boss too when he stayed in Madurai under court order. Well, no doubt Nedumaran commands the respect as the most trusted person of the LTTE boss. But what is his position today? Is he politically a mass leader or a spent force? Is he in a position to collect 50,000 people on a Monday morning to march towards the SL Deputy High Commissioner’s office in Chennai like the DMK did in March against the alleged shooting of TN fishermen by SL Navy? No he is not. Even last week only 300 volunteers gathered with him at Nagapattinan jetty even though over half a dozen least known associations expressed participation.
What prompted him to go on fast to death? September 27th is the 20th death anniversary of Dhileepan, 25, who went on fast to death. Younger readers may not know about Dhileepan who was the head of political wing of the LTTE in Jaffna. LTTE blamed India that many things that were promised in the Indo – Lanka Pact were not given to them. Talks in this regard with Indian High Commissioner J.N. Dixit were quite turbulent. Therefore to confront India in Gandhian way Dhileepan went on a hunger strike near a Hindu temple in Jaffna and died after few days. Actually Nedumaran was secretly in Jaffna with Pirabhakaran when Dhileepan died.
Now who blocked the food and medicine consignment? Whether it was Tamilnadu government, Delhi, Colombo or all three together I may consider it politically unwise. Delhi would just parrot what TN says. I wonder what instigated M.K. to go against it, may be not to give prominence to Nedumaran and his efforts? “We wanted to send them through Red Cross, which agreed to it. But the world organisation wrote to the Centre seeking permission. It was not given. Only then, we decided to take medicine and food directly to Sri Lanka through boats from Nagapattinam,” was his argument. Now Nedumaran broke his fast on Saturday with an assurance from the Chief Minister that he would take meaningful steps to fulfill his demand.
Lanka need not have any reservation to receive it through any official channel. We accepted Tsunami fund and goods from school children too while India and Thailand said no to foreign aid. Mind you if we are still shy, to save our face and honour, we should pay back to TN government what they spend on the Sri Lankan boat refugees. Minister Douglas Devananda who expressed his willingness to accept it through ICRC on BBC’s Tamil service, should inform Chennai and Delhi his readiness and save Tamilnadu CM’s embarrassment of approaching Delhi. Acceptance of this consignment will create some good will in both sides of the Palk-Strait. At times one will have to give in, to win.
An Indian senior journalist said last week in Colombo that, support to the LTTE in TN is zero. No it is not. That is the wish of his establishment. Brahmins do not like the prominence of low castes. When politicians like Vaiko, Thirumavalavan, and Dr.Ramdoss are openly supporting the Tigers, one can not opine against the reality. But it can be defined to a single digit. On the contrary people of TN are fully sympathetic to the plight of Northeast civilians.
Nedumaran is a politician of yesteryear, not a piper to arouse people to walk over water with him to Lanka or bring an Armada. Any such move will be stopped by law enforcing authorities immediately. Therefore here no one needs to use binoculars. The Opposition member now will understand neither Karunanithi nor Central government backs Nedumaran. Such acts of him will take place in future too, but don’t raise Tsunami signals. On the whole it looks Lanka or Tamilnadu, or both together made a mountain out of a molehill making him a hero.
(http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/09/22/opinion/1.asp)
Seeing the hype created presently by the Sri Lankan politicians, government and the media, I may say Nedumaran has, after 24 years once again emerged as a ‘hero’ in Sri Lanka. Comments made by many alarmists about his venture, clearly exposed their ignorance of Indian politics – particularly Tamilnadu politics. One carried an opposition parliamentarian’s comments as; He also said that Nedumaran had the backing of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi. “The Central Government of India backs Nedumaran as the support of his party is needed for it to survive. Therefore the Sri Lankan government should act with circumspection.”
I did not know what to say except controlling my laughter and wondering to myself about their lack of knowledge of the immediate neighbourhood. To me this parliamentarian does not seem to be anything better than the binocular man of 1983. Karunanithi and Jayalalitha are at logger heads with Nedumaran and imprisoned him a few times during their tenure. I wish to ask the member in what way Central Government of India backs Nedumaran whose face the cabinet [except Tamils] might have not seen at all even in news papers?
In every political party there would be one or two dedicated to follow events of a particular country, and only that particular person would comment on the happenings there. In Lanka it looks such things don’t exist. Don’t worry even the present President of the most powerful country, six months prior to his election did not know where India was, what the Prime Minister’s name was. If you are a regular TV news viewer you would agree that nowadays, it is proved politics does not need intelligence only guns, sorry guts – to do any thing. Nedumaran started his political career with the DMK and later moved over to Congress with a group that collided with Karunanithi. In 1978 when Mrs.Indira Gandhi visited Madurai he was her escort. At one point when a DMK man threw a deadly weapon at Mrs.Gandhi, Nedumaran saved her. This incident gave him prominence in all India political circles, but strengthened the enmity with Karunanithi and the DMK. Even now on the 12th and before, he shouted anti Karunanithi slogans and accused him as, just because of his lack of concern for the Tamils of Eelam only, the people in Eelam suffer - starve to this extent.
Surprisingly Congress and the DMK formed an alliance for the 1980 state legislature election to fight MGR. Nedumaran who was against DMK left the party to form his own as Tamilnadu Kamaraj Congress Party and went along with MGR, winning three seats. In the meantime his friendship with Tamil militants especially the LTTE grew and his legislature hostel room in Madras [like Sirawasthi] became a safe house to LTTErs like Baby, Kittu and another one person who wanted to keep his presence secret. The Pondy Bazaar shooting incident made police arrest Uma Magheswaran who was injured and also the one who injured him, whose head carried Rs.300,000 rewards for killing Jaffna’s Mayor Alfred Duraiappa. As Baby sought help, Nedumaran visited the prison and was shocked to be introduced to a person hitherto was said to be in Jaffna. “Sorry” was the first word Pirabhakaran uttered to Nedumaran who took it easy with a smile. The court ordered Pirabhakaran to be in Madurai and this cemented the relationship between the two. The fugitive finally wanted to leave India on January 4, 1987. “Have you made all arrangements?” “Yes I am informing you only. Nobody else knows about my plans. If we remain here we will not be able to take independent decisions for our people’s welfare” he added. “There is a plan to have me killed in Madras or New Delhi. The danger will remain as long as I remain here. Our struggle will intensify if I return to Eelam”. Pirabhakaran left for Jaffna. As said Nedumaran was the one only Indian who knew about his exit.
Who is Nedumaran? He is a good orator, a lover of Tamil language and its culture, a simple living man who does not yearn for a Mercedes Benz, but a public commuter. Above all, he is a sympathizer of the LTTE leader and his struggle. That made him to give up national politics and become an admirer cum advisor to the Tigers. He helped the movement a lot at crucial times and took care of the Tiger boss too when he stayed in Madurai under court order. Well, no doubt Nedumaran commands the respect as the most trusted person of the LTTE boss. But what is his position today? Is he politically a mass leader or a spent force? Is he in a position to collect 50,000 people on a Monday morning to march towards the SL Deputy High Commissioner’s office in Chennai like the DMK did in March against the alleged shooting of TN fishermen by SL Navy? No he is not. Even last week only 300 volunteers gathered with him at Nagapattinan jetty even though over half a dozen least known associations expressed participation.
What prompted him to go on fast to death? September 27th is the 20th death anniversary of Dhileepan, 25, who went on fast to death. Younger readers may not know about Dhileepan who was the head of political wing of the LTTE in Jaffna. LTTE blamed India that many things that were promised in the Indo – Lanka Pact were not given to them. Talks in this regard with Indian High Commissioner J.N. Dixit were quite turbulent. Therefore to confront India in Gandhian way Dhileepan went on a hunger strike near a Hindu temple in Jaffna and died after few days. Actually Nedumaran was secretly in Jaffna with Pirabhakaran when Dhileepan died.
Now who blocked the food and medicine consignment? Whether it was Tamilnadu government, Delhi, Colombo or all three together I may consider it politically unwise. Delhi would just parrot what TN says. I wonder what instigated M.K. to go against it, may be not to give prominence to Nedumaran and his efforts? “We wanted to send them through Red Cross, which agreed to it. But the world organisation wrote to the Centre seeking permission. It was not given. Only then, we decided to take medicine and food directly to Sri Lanka through boats from Nagapattinam,” was his argument. Now Nedumaran broke his fast on Saturday with an assurance from the Chief Minister that he would take meaningful steps to fulfill his demand.
Lanka need not have any reservation to receive it through any official channel. We accepted Tsunami fund and goods from school children too while India and Thailand said no to foreign aid. Mind you if we are still shy, to save our face and honour, we should pay back to TN government what they spend on the Sri Lankan boat refugees. Minister Douglas Devananda who expressed his willingness to accept it through ICRC on BBC’s Tamil service, should inform Chennai and Delhi his readiness and save Tamilnadu CM’s embarrassment of approaching Delhi. Acceptance of this consignment will create some good will in both sides of the Palk-Strait. At times one will have to give in, to win.
An Indian senior journalist said last week in Colombo that, support to the LTTE in TN is zero. No it is not. That is the wish of his establishment. Brahmins do not like the prominence of low castes. When politicians like Vaiko, Thirumavalavan, and Dr.Ramdoss are openly supporting the Tigers, one can not opine against the reality. But it can be defined to a single digit. On the contrary people of TN are fully sympathetic to the plight of Northeast civilians.
Nedumaran is a politician of yesteryear, not a piper to arouse people to walk over water with him to Lanka or bring an Armada. Any such move will be stopped by law enforcing authorities immediately. Therefore here no one needs to use binoculars. The Opposition member now will understand neither Karunanithi nor Central government backs Nedumaran. Such acts of him will take place in future too, but don’t raise Tsunami signals. On the whole it looks Lanka or Tamilnadu, or both together made a mountain out of a molehill making him a hero.
(http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/09/22/opinion/1.asp)
Friday, September 21, 2007
Sri Lanka air attacks injure 13: rebels
A Sri Lankan soldier at a checkpoint in Colombo. At least 13 civilians, including children, were wounded when Sri Lankan war planes staged three days of bombing raids over territory held by the Tamil Tiger rebels, the guerrillas said.
At least 13 civilians, including children, were wounded when Sri Lankan war planes staged three days of bombing raids over territory held by the Tamil Tiger rebels, the guerrillas said.
Sri Lanka's military said earlier it had identified and bombed guerrilla targets. It denied hitting civilians during the raids, which were staged over three consecutive days until Friday.
The rebels in a statement listed the names of 13 people they said had been wounded in the bombings, adding they had been admitted to hospital.
The Tamil Tigers have been fighting since 1972 for a separate homeland on the tropical island for minority Tamils.
Official figures say the conflict has claimed more than 65,000 lives, including more than 5,400 in the last 21 months.
(http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070922/wl_sthasia_afp/
srilankaunrest_070922055852&printer=1;_ylt=AtOb_s.DXzhl9ziUdEzcdgbuOrgF)
Monday, September 10, 2007
LOGISTICAL SUPPORT
Soldiers bring in supplies by boat to their colleagues conducting search operations in Silavathura which was liberated by the Security Forces early this week.
Government troops patrolling near Thoppigala
Government troops patrolling near Thoppigala.Advancing Commandos captured the strategically important Thoppigala base complex eliminating the tiger pressence in the east.
(http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/07/10/index.asp)
Friday, September 07, 2007
Surprise the key element as Forces capture Silavathura
Huge blow to Tigers' supply system, tax collection:
MAJOR VICTORY: The news about the military operation to liberate the areas in the South of Mannar came as a surprise not only to the LTTE but to the Security Forces.
Even the troops involved in the operation were informed about the launch of the operation on Friday night after the decision was taken last Friday at the National Security Council.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa gave the nod for the launch of this humanitarian operation after his arrival in Colombo from Kandy.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka moved the proposal to the Security Council emphasising the need to liberate the area from the clutches of the LTTE as Tigers were exploiting the population in Silavatura, Arippu who made fishing their lifeline.
Security Forces have received enough proof to say that the LTTE cadres mingling with the fishing community smuggle arms and ammunition and fuel to the area as they were experiencing an acute shortage of fuel in the unliberated areas.
One of the major contributing factors towards launching this operation to liberate the area was due to the continuous threats posed by the LTTE to military vehicles plying on the Mannar-Vavuniya road, the only supply route connected to Mannar town.
The presence of Tiger cadres in the South of Mannar provided many chances for the LTTE to cut off this Main Supply Route to Mannar and isolate the Security Forces in a decisive battle that may erupt in the Wanni under present conditions.
The possibility is very high with the strong presence of Tiger cadres in the Vidithalthivu in the North of Mannar a few Kilometres away from Mannar.
The LTTE is aware of this situation and made use of their presence in the area to launch claymore attacks on a number of Security Forces vehicles plying on the Vavuniya Mannar road.
The most recent attack was reported at Cheddikulam on the Medawachchiya - Mannar road killing 10 soldiers, wounding 19 including 13 civilians on July 24 this year.
If the LTTE musters their resources and launches an attack on Police posts or Army detachments established along the Mannar Vavuniya road, they could have easily cut off the road to induct their cadres from Wanni to South of Mannar in preparation of a major offensive against the Security Forces.
The threats on the civilian population living in the border of Puttalam and Anuradhapura districts was also a contributing factor for the launch of this operation as it helps strengthening the security of the settlements in Mahavilachchiya, Tantirimale and various other villages.
The LTTE posed a threat to many Home Guards deployed to secure these villages. They were attacked recently by the Tiger cadres. Four Home Guards were killed on July 24 in a pre dawn attack in Thiruwegama in the border of Vavuniya.
Earlier in April seven villagers including six women were massacred by the LTTE in Awaranthulawa, Paleuruwa in the border of Vavuniya.
In this backdrop it had become a compulsory factor for the Security Forces to launch this operation to strengthen the security of these villages.
From the Navy point of view the presence of the LTTE in Silavatura and Arippu in the South was a greater threat for the Naval patrol craft deployed for the security of Colombo harbour as the LTTE used to move to attack Colombo harbour mingling with the fishermen.
Sea Tiger cadres make use of the license issued to fishermen in Puttalam and Battalangunduwa to smuggle arms and ammunition to LTTE controlled areas posing as civilian fishermen.
On many occasions Sea Tigers launched attacks on Naval troops patrolling in the sea off Kalpitiya reaching the Naval craft in the guise of fishermen.
Apart from this the LTTE also made use of the area to send suicide cadres and explosives to Colombo from this area since it was the only available route for the LTTE to send in their cadres to Colombo.
This background provided reasons for the Security Forces to launch another humanitarian operation to liberate the area from the clutches of the LTTE.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka along with Wanni Security Forces Commander Major General Jagath Jayasuriya commanded the troops engaged in the Silavatura operation.
The humanitarian operation was commenced without any operation plan to maintain the secrecy of the operation as Security Forces did in the Eastern operations too.
Arrangements were made through the Area Headquarters in Mannar under the command of Brigadier Channa Goonetilleke, to accommodate the civilians from Silavatura and Arippu at several welfare centres until the humanitarian mission was completed.
According to statistics available with the Government Agent and the Non Government Organisations operating in Silavatura and Mannar area, there have been around 6,000 civilians in the area.
However the Security Forces realised that the figure was an exaggerated one, as the total number of civilians arriving in the cleared areas in Mannar did not exceed 3,000 even by Wednesday morning.
This number was reported except the civilians living in Mulliyavali area in the South of Silavatura who had not arrived in Government held areas even by Wednesday morning.
However, According to Mannar Government Agent Nicholes Pillai there was a SoS call from the civilians living in Mulliyavali to reach liberated areas as they have been already trapped in the area without food.
Therefore, the Security Forces believe that either civilians have left the area for various other places or the figure has been exaggerated by the NGOs to bring in supplies to the area to feed the LTTE as there were no other means for the LTTE to depend on food and other essential items such as fuel.
With the civilians in Arippu, and Silavatura and Kondachchi arriving in Murunakan and Nananddan, 1 SF troops commanded by Major Ihalagama under the Command of SF Brigade Commander Nirmal Dharmaratna moved into the area along with the 9 Gemunu Watch battalion commanded by Lt. Colonel Pradeep Perera.
The leading role was played by the Special Forces troops under the command of Colonel Nirmal Dharmaratne. Weeks prior to the launch of the operation they inducted reckie teams in to the area to observe the situation there and to cut off cut off all LTTE supply routes to the area.
As SF troops completed their mission inside Silavatura the ground troops were given instructions to move into the area in the early Saturday morning troops attached to 8 GW move into the area along the Murunkan Silavatura road.
Though they expected Tiger resistance at Kompansinthakulam bridge across Malwathu Oya or Arivu Aru they faced no resistance.
The 9 Gemunu Watch, 8 Sinha Regiment and 10 Gajaba Regiment were used to cut off the supply routes while Special Forces troops played the leading role.
The Bravo Company of the 8 GW battalion, commanded by Captain Imesh Habadivulvewa took control of the bridge which was earlier used by the LTTE as a tax collecting centre from the people and from the tractors transporting sand.
As Bravo Company took control of the bridge with no resistance Charley Company of the 9GW under the leadership of Captain Bandaranaike moved towards Chaddyappankulam junction on the Murunkan - Silavatura road.
From the Silavatura junction on the Murunkan - Silavatura junction two companies Delta Company under the leadership of Captain MUC Perera and Delta Company led by Captain Sampath moved in two directions to take control of Arippu.
As troops of the 9 Gemunu Watch were taking control of Arippu Silavatura was sealed off completely by the 9 GW troops. The troops attached to 8 Sinha Regiment were helidropped from Vavuniya to completely cut off Silavatura from the South.
Each Battalion has been given different tasks and were not aware of the other battalions involved in the operations. By the time 8SR troops were heli dropped to Kajuwatta area, 9 GW troops were not aware of their movements.
Surprise was fully maintained during the whole operation and 8 SR troops along with the 1 SF troops advanced towards the Silavatura from Kajuwatta area. By Sunday morning troops took full control of Silavatura capturing a Sea Tiger base.
Two Tiger cadres the intelligence leader and the political leader of Silavatura area were killed in a claymore attack with Special Forces troops cutting off the supply routes to the area.
Troops believe that many Tiger cadres fled the area by sea southwards and towards the Vedithalthivu north of Mannar despite the rough sea conditions in the area.
Despite the rough seas the Army started sending supplies to ground troops in Arippu by boat from Vankalai.
By Monday troops further advanced towards Kondachchi to take full control of the Silavatura area and consolidate their position in Silavatura.
Troops conducting search and clear operations in Silavatura found a Sea Tiger base along with ten boats and a suicide boat. Large stocks of RPG bombs, hand grenades, T-56 ammunition, detonators and explosives left behind by the fleeing Tiger cadres were recovered from the area.
The clandestine operations conducted by the Sea Tiger cadres were apparent during this search operations as troops found a few fishing boats fitted with claymore mines into the fibreglass bodies of the fishing boats.
It is very difficult to identify these suicide boats as they are similar to the normal fishing boats. They could be identified only by the detonator wires fixed to the boats.
The number of licences issued to civilians by the Navy to engage in fishing has also been recovered from this Sea Tiger base.
The recovery of these civilian identity cards from the Sea Tiger base very clearly indicates that the LTTE was using the licences issued for fishermen to smuggle arms and ammunition to their Tiger bases.
That was how the LTTE launched an attack on Naval craft in Battalangunduwa posing themselves as fishermen. With the use of these suicide boats the LTTE can reach the Navy boats and destroy them once they reach close to these boats to check their identity.
The troops have taken shelter at Government buildings like Divisional Secretariat offices, schools and other public offices in Arippu and Silavatura without touching any private property belonging to the civilians who left the area with the advancement of troops.
Civilians who had left the area with the advancement of troops towards Silavatura, have now taken refuge at Don Bosco Church in Murunkan and Nanaddan Maha Vidyalaya until the Security Force declare the area free of LTTE threat.
These civilians now come out with the suffering they had undergone at the hands of the LTTE as they had to live under the pressure of the LTTE. One Vijayalakshmi who had arrived there in Silavatura from Kebithigollewa area had not been allowed to go back to her village.
She has been asked to live with her relatives there in Silavatura and had not been allowed to use even a telephone suspecting that she would give information to Security Forces.
These civilians are willing to return to their villages under the protection of the Security Forces to live a normal life like the civilians living in other parts of the country.
Therefore, they will soon be given the chance to return their villages very soon as Security Forces have almost completed their task of clearing the area in Silavatura to establish civilian administration.
Though some elements describe the victory of the Security Forces in Silavatura as mere capture of lands with no Tiger resistance, it was the strategy adopted by the Security Forces to liberate the area that compelled the LTTE to flee from the area.
Though the LTTE highly boasted about the fighting capabilities they were not capable of fighting a professional Army. What they should consider is that these type of military successes will definitely will pave the way for the success in future operations in the Wanni to capture LTTE strongholds.
No strong Army can capture any territory without moving to the target step by step. The task before the Security Forces is to liberate the civilian population from the clutches of the LTTE to free them from the harassments of the LTTE.
It is absolutely nonsensical to think of capturing Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi directly without liberating the people in other parts in the North and East.
That should be done considering the manpower and the firepower available with the Armed Forces. Now the Forces are on track to achieve their task once the time is ripe for them to move into the strongholds in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/07/fea03.asp)
MAJOR VICTORY: The news about the military operation to liberate the areas in the South of Mannar came as a surprise not only to the LTTE but to the Security Forces.
Even the troops involved in the operation were informed about the launch of the operation on Friday night after the decision was taken last Friday at the National Security Council.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa gave the nod for the launch of this humanitarian operation after his arrival in Colombo from Kandy.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka moved the proposal to the Security Council emphasising the need to liberate the area from the clutches of the LTTE as Tigers were exploiting the population in Silavatura, Arippu who made fishing their lifeline.
Security Forces have received enough proof to say that the LTTE cadres mingling with the fishing community smuggle arms and ammunition and fuel to the area as they were experiencing an acute shortage of fuel in the unliberated areas.
One of the major contributing factors towards launching this operation to liberate the area was due to the continuous threats posed by the LTTE to military vehicles plying on the Mannar-Vavuniya road, the only supply route connected to Mannar town.
The presence of Tiger cadres in the South of Mannar provided many chances for the LTTE to cut off this Main Supply Route to Mannar and isolate the Security Forces in a decisive battle that may erupt in the Wanni under present conditions.
The possibility is very high with the strong presence of Tiger cadres in the Vidithalthivu in the North of Mannar a few Kilometres away from Mannar.
The LTTE is aware of this situation and made use of their presence in the area to launch claymore attacks on a number of Security Forces vehicles plying on the Vavuniya Mannar road.
The most recent attack was reported at Cheddikulam on the Medawachchiya - Mannar road killing 10 soldiers, wounding 19 including 13 civilians on July 24 this year.
If the LTTE musters their resources and launches an attack on Police posts or Army detachments established along the Mannar Vavuniya road, they could have easily cut off the road to induct their cadres from Wanni to South of Mannar in preparation of a major offensive against the Security Forces.
The threats on the civilian population living in the border of Puttalam and Anuradhapura districts was also a contributing factor for the launch of this operation as it helps strengthening the security of the settlements in Mahavilachchiya, Tantirimale and various other villages.
The LTTE posed a threat to many Home Guards deployed to secure these villages. They were attacked recently by the Tiger cadres. Four Home Guards were killed on July 24 in a pre dawn attack in Thiruwegama in the border of Vavuniya.
Earlier in April seven villagers including six women were massacred by the LTTE in Awaranthulawa, Paleuruwa in the border of Vavuniya.
In this backdrop it had become a compulsory factor for the Security Forces to launch this operation to strengthen the security of these villages.
From the Navy point of view the presence of the LTTE in Silavatura and Arippu in the South was a greater threat for the Naval patrol craft deployed for the security of Colombo harbour as the LTTE used to move to attack Colombo harbour mingling with the fishermen.
Sea Tiger cadres make use of the license issued to fishermen in Puttalam and Battalangunduwa to smuggle arms and ammunition to LTTE controlled areas posing as civilian fishermen.
On many occasions Sea Tigers launched attacks on Naval troops patrolling in the sea off Kalpitiya reaching the Naval craft in the guise of fishermen.
Apart from this the LTTE also made use of the area to send suicide cadres and explosives to Colombo from this area since it was the only available route for the LTTE to send in their cadres to Colombo.
This background provided reasons for the Security Forces to launch another humanitarian operation to liberate the area from the clutches of the LTTE.
Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka along with Wanni Security Forces Commander Major General Jagath Jayasuriya commanded the troops engaged in the Silavatura operation.
The humanitarian operation was commenced without any operation plan to maintain the secrecy of the operation as Security Forces did in the Eastern operations too.
Arrangements were made through the Area Headquarters in Mannar under the command of Brigadier Channa Goonetilleke, to accommodate the civilians from Silavatura and Arippu at several welfare centres until the humanitarian mission was completed.
According to statistics available with the Government Agent and the Non Government Organisations operating in Silavatura and Mannar area, there have been around 6,000 civilians in the area.
However the Security Forces realised that the figure was an exaggerated one, as the total number of civilians arriving in the cleared areas in Mannar did not exceed 3,000 even by Wednesday morning.
This number was reported except the civilians living in Mulliyavali area in the South of Silavatura who had not arrived in Government held areas even by Wednesday morning.
However, According to Mannar Government Agent Nicholes Pillai there was a SoS call from the civilians living in Mulliyavali to reach liberated areas as they have been already trapped in the area without food.
Therefore, the Security Forces believe that either civilians have left the area for various other places or the figure has been exaggerated by the NGOs to bring in supplies to the area to feed the LTTE as there were no other means for the LTTE to depend on food and other essential items such as fuel.
With the civilians in Arippu, and Silavatura and Kondachchi arriving in Murunakan and Nananddan, 1 SF troops commanded by Major Ihalagama under the Command of SF Brigade Commander Nirmal Dharmaratna moved into the area along with the 9 Gemunu Watch battalion commanded by Lt. Colonel Pradeep Perera.
The leading role was played by the Special Forces troops under the command of Colonel Nirmal Dharmaratne. Weeks prior to the launch of the operation they inducted reckie teams in to the area to observe the situation there and to cut off cut off all LTTE supply routes to the area.
As SF troops completed their mission inside Silavatura the ground troops were given instructions to move into the area in the early Saturday morning troops attached to 8 GW move into the area along the Murunkan Silavatura road.
Though they expected Tiger resistance at Kompansinthakulam bridge across Malwathu Oya or Arivu Aru they faced no resistance.
The 9 Gemunu Watch, 8 Sinha Regiment and 10 Gajaba Regiment were used to cut off the supply routes while Special Forces troops played the leading role.
The Bravo Company of the 8 GW battalion, commanded by Captain Imesh Habadivulvewa took control of the bridge which was earlier used by the LTTE as a tax collecting centre from the people and from the tractors transporting sand.
As Bravo Company took control of the bridge with no resistance Charley Company of the 9GW under the leadership of Captain Bandaranaike moved towards Chaddyappankulam junction on the Murunkan - Silavatura road.
From the Silavatura junction on the Murunkan - Silavatura junction two companies Delta Company under the leadership of Captain MUC Perera and Delta Company led by Captain Sampath moved in two directions to take control of Arippu.
As troops of the 9 Gemunu Watch were taking control of Arippu Silavatura was sealed off completely by the 9 GW troops. The troops attached to 8 Sinha Regiment were helidropped from Vavuniya to completely cut off Silavatura from the South.
Each Battalion has been given different tasks and were not aware of the other battalions involved in the operations. By the time 8SR troops were heli dropped to Kajuwatta area, 9 GW troops were not aware of their movements.
Surprise was fully maintained during the whole operation and 8 SR troops along with the 1 SF troops advanced towards the Silavatura from Kajuwatta area. By Sunday morning troops took full control of Silavatura capturing a Sea Tiger base.
Two Tiger cadres the intelligence leader and the political leader of Silavatura area were killed in a claymore attack with Special Forces troops cutting off the supply routes to the area.
Troops believe that many Tiger cadres fled the area by sea southwards and towards the Vedithalthivu north of Mannar despite the rough sea conditions in the area.
Despite the rough seas the Army started sending supplies to ground troops in Arippu by boat from Vankalai.
By Monday troops further advanced towards Kondachchi to take full control of the Silavatura area and consolidate their position in Silavatura.
Troops conducting search and clear operations in Silavatura found a Sea Tiger base along with ten boats and a suicide boat. Large stocks of RPG bombs, hand grenades, T-56 ammunition, detonators and explosives left behind by the fleeing Tiger cadres were recovered from the area.
The clandestine operations conducted by the Sea Tiger cadres were apparent during this search operations as troops found a few fishing boats fitted with claymore mines into the fibreglass bodies of the fishing boats.
It is very difficult to identify these suicide boats as they are similar to the normal fishing boats. They could be identified only by the detonator wires fixed to the boats.
The number of licences issued to civilians by the Navy to engage in fishing has also been recovered from this Sea Tiger base.
The recovery of these civilian identity cards from the Sea Tiger base very clearly indicates that the LTTE was using the licences issued for fishermen to smuggle arms and ammunition to their Tiger bases.
That was how the LTTE launched an attack on Naval craft in Battalangunduwa posing themselves as fishermen. With the use of these suicide boats the LTTE can reach the Navy boats and destroy them once they reach close to these boats to check their identity.
The troops have taken shelter at Government buildings like Divisional Secretariat offices, schools and other public offices in Arippu and Silavatura without touching any private property belonging to the civilians who left the area with the advancement of troops.
Civilians who had left the area with the advancement of troops towards Silavatura, have now taken refuge at Don Bosco Church in Murunkan and Nanaddan Maha Vidyalaya until the Security Force declare the area free of LTTE threat.
These civilians now come out with the suffering they had undergone at the hands of the LTTE as they had to live under the pressure of the LTTE. One Vijayalakshmi who had arrived there in Silavatura from Kebithigollewa area had not been allowed to go back to her village.
She has been asked to live with her relatives there in Silavatura and had not been allowed to use even a telephone suspecting that she would give information to Security Forces.
These civilians are willing to return to their villages under the protection of the Security Forces to live a normal life like the civilians living in other parts of the country.
Therefore, they will soon be given the chance to return their villages very soon as Security Forces have almost completed their task of clearing the area in Silavatura to establish civilian administration.
Though some elements describe the victory of the Security Forces in Silavatura as mere capture of lands with no Tiger resistance, it was the strategy adopted by the Security Forces to liberate the area that compelled the LTTE to flee from the area.
Though the LTTE highly boasted about the fighting capabilities they were not capable of fighting a professional Army. What they should consider is that these type of military successes will definitely will pave the way for the success in future operations in the Wanni to capture LTTE strongholds.
No strong Army can capture any territory without moving to the target step by step. The task before the Security Forces is to liberate the civilian population from the clutches of the LTTE to free them from the harassments of the LTTE.
It is absolutely nonsensical to think of capturing Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi directly without liberating the people in other parts in the North and East.
That should be done considering the manpower and the firepower available with the Armed Forces. Now the Forces are on track to achieve their task once the time is ripe for them to move into the strongholds in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/07/fea03.asp)
Special Forces destroying LTTE morale, combat power
In Sri Lanka, one of the more successful units of the army are the “Deep Penetration Units,” that go into rebel territory to collect information, and destroy rebel morale and combat power. These are Long Range Recon Patrol (LRRPs). They belong to the Sri Lankan Special Force Regiment, which was established in 1986.
A LRRP unit, of a hundred or so men, was organised in the 1990s. The unit’s existence and the names of those in it, were kept secret. That’s because the LTTE was expert at hunting down and assassinating anyone they wanted (including Heads of State and senior military commanders.)
Initial operations of the LRRPs were very successful, but LTTE spies found out about the LRRP unit, and who was in it. About 80 members of the LRRP unit were subsequently killed by the LTTE, and the LRRP unit was disbanded. But in the last few years, the LRRP unit, has been reformed and is back in action.
Sri Lanka has several Special Forces type units. There are three Army Commando Regiments, three Army Special Forces Regiments (SF), the Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS), the Air Force Special Force and the Police Special Task Force. All of these are small organisations, full of carefully selected men (and a few women), who train hard, and are usually found heavily involved whenever there is a successful operation against the LTTE.
In the last five years, India and the United States has sent many of their own Special Forces troops to Sri Lanka to help train their Sri Lankan counterparts.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/05/sec20.asp)
A LRRP unit, of a hundred or so men, was organised in the 1990s. The unit’s existence and the names of those in it, were kept secret. That’s because the LTTE was expert at hunting down and assassinating anyone they wanted (including Heads of State and senior military commanders.)
Initial operations of the LRRPs were very successful, but LTTE spies found out about the LRRP unit, and who was in it. About 80 members of the LRRP unit were subsequently killed by the LTTE, and the LRRP unit was disbanded. But in the last few years, the LRRP unit, has been reformed and is back in action.
Sri Lanka has several Special Forces type units. There are three Army Commando Regiments, three Army Special Forces Regiments (SF), the Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS), the Air Force Special Force and the Police Special Task Force. All of these are small organisations, full of carefully selected men (and a few women), who train hard, and are usually found heavily involved whenever there is a successful operation against the LTTE.
In the last five years, India and the United States has sent many of their own Special Forces troops to Sri Lanka to help train their Sri Lankan counterparts.
(http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/09/05/sec20.asp)
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Sri Lanka Aims to Divide Districts in East, Tamil Lawmaker Says
Sri Lanka's government is dividing districts in the east to prevent a Tamil homeland being created, a move that will spoil the chances of a peace settlement, a lawmaker with the Tamil National Alliance party said.
The aim is to create an ethnic-Sinhalese region between the port of Trincomalee in the Eastern Province and Mullaiththeevu in the Northern Province, R. Sampanthan, the TNA's leader in Parliament, told the assembly yesterday, according to TamilNet's Web site. The TNA has 22 seats in the 225-seat Parliament.
The army won control of the Eastern Province in July after 14 years of fighting with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The LTTE still controls parts of the northern Jaffna peninsula.
The Tamil Tigers are fighting for a separate homeland in the South Asian island nation of 20 million people. Ethnic Sinhalese make up almost 74 percent of the population and Tamils about 8.5 percent, according to U.S. government data.
The government has pledged to hold elections and attract investors and tourists to the Eastern Province that has a 462- kilometer (287-mile) coastline. It offered an amnesty from Sept. 1 to rebels hiding in the jungles in the east, saying they will be rehabilitated and given job training.
Sampanthan said the government is creating ethnic- Sinhalese administrations in the region, TamilNet reported, citing comments he made during a parliamentary debate on events in the east since July.
Sri Lankan Unity
A political solution to Tamil demands must be based on maintaining the unity of Sri Lanka, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said this week, according to the Defense Ministry's Web site.
``I was elected primarily by a Sinhala constituency on an election manifesto which made it clear that an ultimate solution to the ethnic crisis could be evolved only on the basis of a unitary state,'' Rajapaksa said in an interview with Indian media, according to the ministry. The LTTE enforced a boycott of Tamil voters in the 2005 election, he said.
There are ``genuine Tamil grievances'' and ``genuine Tamil aspirations'' that have to be addressed, Rajapaksa said. The LTTE doesn't speak for all Tamils, he said, adding that Tamil groups should present a united agenda and proposals for peace.
``The vast majority of Tamil people want peace above everything and to them (the state of) Eelam is just an illusion,'' Rajapaksa said. ``The only question that is non- negotiable is a divided Sri Lanka.''
The president said he intends to bring democracy to the Eastern Province and wants elections held there before the end of this year.
The LTTE has an estimated 12,000 fighters in its land forces and 4,000 members of its Sea Tigers unit. It unveiled an air wing when light aircraft bombed areas near the capital, Colombo, in March and April.
The army will drive the Tamil Tigers from the northeastern region, Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said last month. The LTTE said in July that its units were still operating in the Batticaloa area in the east.
The government and LTTE held two rounds of peace talks in Geneva last year that failed to make any progress.
(http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601091&sid=axpr9glUE3hc&refer=india#)
The aim is to create an ethnic-Sinhalese region between the port of Trincomalee in the Eastern Province and Mullaiththeevu in the Northern Province, R. Sampanthan, the TNA's leader in Parliament, told the assembly yesterday, according to TamilNet's Web site. The TNA has 22 seats in the 225-seat Parliament.
The army won control of the Eastern Province in July after 14 years of fighting with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The LTTE still controls parts of the northern Jaffna peninsula.
The Tamil Tigers are fighting for a separate homeland in the South Asian island nation of 20 million people. Ethnic Sinhalese make up almost 74 percent of the population and Tamils about 8.5 percent, according to U.S. government data.
The government has pledged to hold elections and attract investors and tourists to the Eastern Province that has a 462- kilometer (287-mile) coastline. It offered an amnesty from Sept. 1 to rebels hiding in the jungles in the east, saying they will be rehabilitated and given job training.
Sampanthan said the government is creating ethnic- Sinhalese administrations in the region, TamilNet reported, citing comments he made during a parliamentary debate on events in the east since July.
Sri Lankan Unity
A political solution to Tamil demands must be based on maintaining the unity of Sri Lanka, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said this week, according to the Defense Ministry's Web site.
``I was elected primarily by a Sinhala constituency on an election manifesto which made it clear that an ultimate solution to the ethnic crisis could be evolved only on the basis of a unitary state,'' Rajapaksa said in an interview with Indian media, according to the ministry. The LTTE enforced a boycott of Tamil voters in the 2005 election, he said.
There are ``genuine Tamil grievances'' and ``genuine Tamil aspirations'' that have to be addressed, Rajapaksa said. The LTTE doesn't speak for all Tamils, he said, adding that Tamil groups should present a united agenda and proposals for peace.
``The vast majority of Tamil people want peace above everything and to them (the state of) Eelam is just an illusion,'' Rajapaksa said. ``The only question that is non- negotiable is a divided Sri Lanka.''
The president said he intends to bring democracy to the Eastern Province and wants elections held there before the end of this year.
The LTTE has an estimated 12,000 fighters in its land forces and 4,000 members of its Sea Tigers unit. It unveiled an air wing when light aircraft bombed areas near the capital, Colombo, in March and April.
The army will drive the Tamil Tigers from the northeastern region, Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said last month. The LTTE said in July that its units were still operating in the Batticaloa area in the east.
The government and LTTE held two rounds of peace talks in Geneva last year that failed to make any progress.
(http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601091&sid=axpr9glUE3hc&refer=india#)
Friday, August 31, 2007
Commandos rescue eight LTTE child soldiers - Kangikaidichchi Aru
Police Commandos the elite corps of the Police Special Task Force (STF) on Tuesday (August 28) rescued seven child combatants along with another 20-year old youth who had been forced by the LTTE to engage in a terrorist attack against the security forces in the Kangikaidichchi Aru area.
According to STF sources, the commandos had rescued the group of young LTTE cadres comprising four girls and four boys when they had successfully intercepted a terrorist movement at a location close to the 212 milepost on the Akkaraipattu- Pothuvil main road.
The group of terrorists had attacked the STF commandos who had been conducting a clearing operation in the area around 5 am on Tuesday. The STF personnel had overpowered the terrorist attack successfully forcing them to flee in all directions.
During the subsequent search, STF personnel found eight fear-stricken children who had been hiding in the jungle along with weapons and other military gear belonging to the LTTE.
On inquires, the children have revealed they had come to attack the STF with a group consisting of about 50 other LTTE terrorists. The children have further said the terrorists group had attacked the STF with rocket-propelled grenades and T-56 weapons during the firefight on Tuesday early morning.
STF officials told defence.lk that there are seven LTTE child soldiers, boys and girls between the ages 14 and 16 years and one cadre aged 20 years. It has been further revealed that all the rescued LTTE cadres had been forcibly recruited to the terrorist outfit at a very young age. They told the STF that they had been abducted from their parents by the LTTE at different times, forcibly given arms training and put into combat. According to the details obtained the rescued were from Vinayagapuram, Thirukkovil , Kanchankuda and Akkaraipaththuwa areas. Their names are as follows:
1 Jeewarasa Sudan 15 Male
2 Chamuth Nadan 20 Male
3 Perumal Sinnathambi 15 Male
4 Dharmaratnam Ramesh 16 Male
5 Selvarasa Suwarajini 15 Female
6 Thuraisingham Sumana 14 Female
7 Vigneswaran Vinoyani 16 Female
8 Thavarasa Rashika 14 Female
During the search STF personnel also seized one claymore mine, one detonator, one detonator code, one wire roll, three anti-personnel mines, and one T-56 magazine with rounds along with some clothing and food items belonged to the LTTE.
In addition, the STF officials said that they had noticed bloodstains on the ground, raising suspicions that several LTTE cadres had been seriously injured or killed in the confrontation with the STF.
Meanwhile, Pro-LTTE media yesterday (August 29) reported that the Special Task Force had ambushed a group of LTTE cadres comprising 14 child soldiers in the same area on Tuesday (August 28) morning. They also claimed that the 14 child combatants were being taken to be handed over to the parents via UNICEF.
However, the rescued child soldiers, as well as the adult cadre have revealed that they were unaware about where they had been led to by the senior LTTE cadres, though they were eagerly waiting to desert the outfit.
The STF officials told defence.lk that it is highly unlikely that LTTE was taking the child soldiers to be handed over to UNICEF as the terrorists had launched several attacks at STF personnel in the same area during last few days.
The LTTE is a terrorist outfit that has been placed on the UN's list of shame for using child combatants to fight its war against Sri Lanka. Led by its psychopathic leader, V.Prabhakaran, the outfit has been fighting since 1983 for a mono-ethnic separate state for Tamils.
It is reliably estimated that at present the LTTE holds over 2000 child soldiers in its shameful "baby brigade" waiting to be killed as suicide bombers or as one-way fighters as desired by their leader. The LTTE, as one of their abominable tactics in war, uses untrained child combatants and teenage girls to lead the frontal assaults before its male cadres enter the battlefield. It is said the LTTE leader had introduced this tactic to make the maximum impact in the initial attack waves. Having been brain-washed and given no option to turn back, thousands of young combatants had died as one-way fighters in previous battles.
The STF that arranged for the children to be reunited with their parents has sent us some emotional moments that its camera captured when the parents met their loved children whom they lost a longtime ago. On seeing their teenage daughters with shortly cut hairs, the mothers burst into tears and cursed the LTTE leader for destroying their young lives . It is said the LTTE shaves the hair of the girl recruits and do not permit them to keep long hair again, in order to break their female image. Also, it is well known that, Prabhakaran's image as ruthless terror-chief is mostly built by these desperate girls who had no option but to die a violent death as suicide bombers.
Defence.lk requests LTTE activists living abroad in comfort and fighting for the "cause" via Internet from safe distances, to watch what disaster they had brought to the innocent Tamil people in Sri Lanka; and for LTTE fund raisers and sympathizers to watch the wicked purpose for which their funds have been used. Finally, we request human rights institutions to see what their inaction over LTTE crimes has resulted in.
(http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20070829_11)
According to STF sources, the commandos had rescued the group of young LTTE cadres comprising four girls and four boys when they had successfully intercepted a terrorist movement at a location close to the 212 milepost on the Akkaraipattu- Pothuvil main road.
The group of terrorists had attacked the STF commandos who had been conducting a clearing operation in the area around 5 am on Tuesday. The STF personnel had overpowered the terrorist attack successfully forcing them to flee in all directions.
During the subsequent search, STF personnel found eight fear-stricken children who had been hiding in the jungle along with weapons and other military gear belonging to the LTTE.
On inquires, the children have revealed they had come to attack the STF with a group consisting of about 50 other LTTE terrorists. The children have further said the terrorists group had attacked the STF with rocket-propelled grenades and T-56 weapons during the firefight on Tuesday early morning.
STF officials told defence.lk that there are seven LTTE child soldiers, boys and girls between the ages 14 and 16 years and one cadre aged 20 years. It has been further revealed that all the rescued LTTE cadres had been forcibly recruited to the terrorist outfit at a very young age. They told the STF that they had been abducted from their parents by the LTTE at different times, forcibly given arms training and put into combat. According to the details obtained the rescued were from Vinayagapuram, Thirukkovil , Kanchankuda and Akkaraipaththuwa areas. Their names are as follows:
1 Jeewarasa Sudan 15 Male
2 Chamuth Nadan 20 Male
3 Perumal Sinnathambi 15 Male
4 Dharmaratnam Ramesh 16 Male
5 Selvarasa Suwarajini 15 Female
6 Thuraisingham Sumana 14 Female
7 Vigneswaran Vinoyani 16 Female
8 Thavarasa Rashika 14 Female
During the search STF personnel also seized one claymore mine, one detonator, one detonator code, one wire roll, three anti-personnel mines, and one T-56 magazine with rounds along with some clothing and food items belonged to the LTTE.
In addition, the STF officials said that they had noticed bloodstains on the ground, raising suspicions that several LTTE cadres had been seriously injured or killed in the confrontation with the STF.
Meanwhile, Pro-LTTE media yesterday (August 29) reported that the Special Task Force had ambushed a group of LTTE cadres comprising 14 child soldiers in the same area on Tuesday (August 28) morning. They also claimed that the 14 child combatants were being taken to be handed over to the parents via UNICEF.
However, the rescued child soldiers, as well as the adult cadre have revealed that they were unaware about where they had been led to by the senior LTTE cadres, though they were eagerly waiting to desert the outfit.
The STF officials told defence.lk that it is highly unlikely that LTTE was taking the child soldiers to be handed over to UNICEF as the terrorists had launched several attacks at STF personnel in the same area during last few days.
The LTTE is a terrorist outfit that has been placed on the UN's list of shame for using child combatants to fight its war against Sri Lanka. Led by its psychopathic leader, V.Prabhakaran, the outfit has been fighting since 1983 for a mono-ethnic separate state for Tamils.
It is reliably estimated that at present the LTTE holds over 2000 child soldiers in its shameful "baby brigade" waiting to be killed as suicide bombers or as one-way fighters as desired by their leader. The LTTE, as one of their abominable tactics in war, uses untrained child combatants and teenage girls to lead the frontal assaults before its male cadres enter the battlefield. It is said the LTTE leader had introduced this tactic to make the maximum impact in the initial attack waves. Having been brain-washed and given no option to turn back, thousands of young combatants had died as one-way fighters in previous battles.
The STF that arranged for the children to be reunited with their parents has sent us some emotional moments that its camera captured when the parents met their loved children whom they lost a longtime ago. On seeing their teenage daughters with shortly cut hairs, the mothers burst into tears and cursed the LTTE leader for destroying their young lives . It is said the LTTE shaves the hair of the girl recruits and do not permit them to keep long hair again, in order to break their female image. Also, it is well known that, Prabhakaran's image as ruthless terror-chief is mostly built by these desperate girls who had no option but to die a violent death as suicide bombers.
Defence.lk requests LTTE activists living abroad in comfort and fighting for the "cause" via Internet from safe distances, to watch what disaster they had brought to the innocent Tamil people in Sri Lanka; and for LTTE fund raisers and sympathizers to watch the wicked purpose for which their funds have been used. Finally, we request human rights institutions to see what their inaction over LTTE crimes has resulted in.
(http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20070829_11)
Tamil students kept away from exams due to fear of LTTE conscription - EPDP Leader
The Leader of the Ealem Peoples' Democratic party (EPDP) the Minister of Social Services Douglas Devananda has stated that many Tamil students in Vanni kept away from the GCE examinations due to the fear of the LTTE forcible conscription.
Minister Devananda said that as a result of LTTE's decision to conscript 60,000 children by recruiting one child from each household, only 7 to 8 per cent of the registered students in the Vanni were able to sit the Advanced Level exam this year.
According to EPDP Leader reliable reports have revealed that the LTTE Leader Velupillai Prebhakeran is considering to increase the demand to two children from each household during his Matyrs Day speech scheduled for November 26, 2007.
Minister Devananda pointed out that the safety of 2000 families who had been displaced from Ariyalai in the Jaffna Town due to the area being declared a High security Zone is a major concern and the government is taking steps to relocate them in alternate lands. The displaced living in temporarily shelters in the coastal areas of Navalady, Maniam Thottam etc. could be prone to pressure and attacks by the LTTE in the future.
He added that the LTTE was continually threatening to shell the EPDP office. "It was only last week that some of the LTTE Artillery shells fell into or around the Palaly area and that was why I spoke to these displaced and offered to find alternate land for them to resettle," he said.
Minister Devananda added that he met with 200 or more residents of Jaffna daily, listened to their grievances and took whatever possible steps to grant then redress.
(http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20070831_02)
Minister Devananda said that as a result of LTTE's decision to conscript 60,000 children by recruiting one child from each household, only 7 to 8 per cent of the registered students in the Vanni were able to sit the Advanced Level exam this year.
According to EPDP Leader reliable reports have revealed that the LTTE Leader Velupillai Prebhakeran is considering to increase the demand to two children from each household during his Matyrs Day speech scheduled for November 26, 2007.
Minister Devananda pointed out that the safety of 2000 families who had been displaced from Ariyalai in the Jaffna Town due to the area being declared a High security Zone is a major concern and the government is taking steps to relocate them in alternate lands. The displaced living in temporarily shelters in the coastal areas of Navalady, Maniam Thottam etc. could be prone to pressure and attacks by the LTTE in the future.
He added that the LTTE was continually threatening to shell the EPDP office. "It was only last week that some of the LTTE Artillery shells fell into or around the Palaly area and that was why I spoke to these displaced and offered to find alternate land for them to resettle," he said.
Minister Devananda added that he met with 200 or more residents of Jaffna daily, listened to their grievances and took whatever possible steps to grant then redress.
(http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20070831_02)
Govt. of Eritrea providing military aid to tiger terrorists – US Senate report
A report of the Foreign Relations Committee of US Senate has authoritatively said that the Government of Eritrea is providing ‘direct military aid’ to tiger terrorists.
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee came to this conclusion after sending six of its staff attached to the Republican Party committee members last year to twenty countries in Asia, Africa and South America.
This is the first occasion that an influential and powerful senate committee such as foreign relations has arrived at a conclusion when discussing the Tamil Tiger activities in Sri Lanka and the threat that it posses to Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The report also states it is a violation of the UN code for a member nation of the United Nations to provide military aid against another member of the same World Body which has a legitimate democratically elected government to facilitate a terrorist group fighting for a separate state.
It is stated that Government of Sri Lanka could officially get an explanation from the committee to ascertain more details of the findings of the investigation which was authorized and executed by a congressional committee that covers relations between the United States and foreign nations, in this case with Sri Lanka. Foreign Relations Committee could be reached through the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the Department of State.
(http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Aug/31/200700831_01.htm)
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee came to this conclusion after sending six of its staff attached to the Republican Party committee members last year to twenty countries in Asia, Africa and South America.
This is the first occasion that an influential and powerful senate committee such as foreign relations has arrived at a conclusion when discussing the Tamil Tiger activities in Sri Lanka and the threat that it posses to Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The report also states it is a violation of the UN code for a member nation of the United Nations to provide military aid against another member of the same World Body which has a legitimate democratically elected government to facilitate a terrorist group fighting for a separate state.
It is stated that Government of Sri Lanka could officially get an explanation from the committee to ascertain more details of the findings of the investigation which was authorized and executed by a congressional committee that covers relations between the United States and foreign nations, in this case with Sri Lanka. Foreign Relations Committee could be reached through the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the Department of State.
(http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Aug/31/200700831_01.htm)
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