COLOMBO: He loathed the peace agreement signed by Sri Lanka and India strongly enough to strike former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi with a rifle, but today the former Lankan sailor makes a living selling Hindi music.
Naval rating Wijemuni Vijitha Rohana de Silva slid into history 20 years ago when he struck a heavy blow on Rajiv Gandhi, injuring his shoulder, as the Indian Prime Minister inspected a guard of honour in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo.
Now, much of his fire has been doused by the Bollywood tunes that he sells to customers at his shop in a busy shopping centre in the suburbs of Colombo.
‘‘I sell very popular cassettes with Hindi songs,’’ Rohana told The Nation newspaper here. ‘‘I also enjoy these songs. I am a music lover.’’
Rohana was court-martialled and sentenced to six years in prison but was released after two years of serving his term by former President Ranasinghe Premadasa, a strong critic of the Indo-Lanka peace accord entered into by his predecessor Junius Jayewardene on July 29, 1987.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Lanka forum picks panel
THE Sri Lankan Coordinating Committee (SLCC) announced its new office-bearers for 2007-08 during its second annual general meeting over the weekend at the Sri Lankan embassy.
Sri Lankan Ambassador S B Atugoda lauded the efforts of the outgoing committee in helping needy compatriots, especially those from the low income category.
He urged more community members to be involved in serving the needy and provide assistance to the SLCC in its endeavour to help workers who face various hardships in their work and other matters.
Expressing appreciation for the members’ contributions toward the forum’s activities, he said that younger people employed in banks, hotels and other organisations should come forward and assist the forum in every possible way.
New SLCC president Lenny Cramer pointed out that launching of the Sri Lankan Community Benevolent Fund (SLCBF) is an important milestone for the community.
He stressed the importance of more Sri Lankans joining the forum and extending their support for its continued success.
Presenting the annual report, outgoing general secretary Anura Wijeratna listed the achievements of the SLCC during the year and mentioned successful events.
The financial report for the period 2006/2007 was later presented by the forum’s treasurer Lalindra de Silva.
The new office-bearers president Lenny Cramer, VP benevolent fund Ranjith Wijekoon, VP business promotion Chelliah Srikanth, VP welfare and fund raising Pantalion Perera, general secretary Ruwan Lankeshwara, treasurer Lalindra de Silva, assistant general secretary Anura Wijeratna, assistant treasurer M V Sithravel, chief event coordinator Nimal Tudewatte and auditors Al Dosari Auditing and Accounting.
Sri Lankan Ambassador S B Atugoda lauded the efforts of the outgoing committee in helping needy compatriots, especially those from the low income category.
He urged more community members to be involved in serving the needy and provide assistance to the SLCC in its endeavour to help workers who face various hardships in their work and other matters.
Expressing appreciation for the members’ contributions toward the forum’s activities, he said that younger people employed in banks, hotels and other organisations should come forward and assist the forum in every possible way.
New SLCC president Lenny Cramer pointed out that launching of the Sri Lankan Community Benevolent Fund (SLCBF) is an important milestone for the community.
He stressed the importance of more Sri Lankans joining the forum and extending their support for its continued success.
Presenting the annual report, outgoing general secretary Anura Wijeratna listed the achievements of the SLCC during the year and mentioned successful events.
The financial report for the period 2006/2007 was later presented by the forum’s treasurer Lalindra de Silva.
The new office-bearers president Lenny Cramer, VP benevolent fund Ranjith Wijekoon, VP business promotion Chelliah Srikanth, VP welfare and fund raising Pantalion Perera, general secretary Ruwan Lankeshwara, treasurer Lalindra de Silva, assistant general secretary Anura Wijeratna, assistant treasurer M V Sithravel, chief event coordinator Nimal Tudewatte and auditors Al Dosari Auditing and Accounting.
Elephant goes mad in Sri Lanka capital
A fifteen-year-old elephant went out of control in heavy traffic in the Sri Lanka capital Colombo making some hundreds of people in the crowded street to flee in chaos this morning.
Police had to close the street and deploy a large number of Police personnel to control the situation while hundreds of people thronged to the street to catch a glimpse of the incident.
The elephant, which was brought to Colombo to attend a Hindu religious procession suddenly started to act violently after seeing the people, organizers said.
However after more than an hour, the mahout was able to get the elephant under control, but due to the incident several houses and vehicles were damaged.
A severe traffic congestion prevailed in the adjacent busy roads that are in the heart of the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Police had to close the street and deploy a large number of Police personnel to control the situation while hundreds of people thronged to the street to catch a glimpse of the incident.
The elephant, which was brought to Colombo to attend a Hindu religious procession suddenly started to act violently after seeing the people, organizers said.
However after more than an hour, the mahout was able to get the elephant under control, but due to the incident several houses and vehicles were damaged.
A severe traffic congestion prevailed in the adjacent busy roads that are in the heart of the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Army uncovers huge cache of Arms, including anti air missiles -Thoppigala
Argus eyed Army soldiers continuing their quest for the terror weapons in the Thoppigala jungle terrain yesterday (July 30) uncovered four large stocks of weapons from Tihiliveddi, Aliya Ode, Meeyankalluwa and Motagala areas. The weapons included heavy mortar launchers, heavy machine guns, an anti air missile, claymore mine and large stocks of explosives and ammunitions.
Army made the first discovery at Tihiliveddi, a remote location from the Thoppigala jungle around 10.30a.m last morning. The soldiers dug up 26 claymore mines, 61 anti personnel mines, 3 anti tank mines, 250 detonators and 25 Kg of C4 explosives dumped inside a thicket.
The second detection was made on the same day afternoon, by the army commandos who were prodding through the harsh jungle terrain in the Aliya Ode area in Narakamula. The commandos unearthed a large stock of weapons carefully dumped by the LTTE terrorists before they fled the area. The stock found around 1.45p.m had the following items.
LTTE weapon dump uncovered - Batticaloa
SL Army soldiers continuing their clearing operations in the newly liberated Eastern Province uncovered a large dump of weapons belonged to the LTTE terrorists at Tihiliveddi in this morning (July 30).
According to the defence sources in the East, 26 claymore mines, 61 anti personnel mines, 3 anti tank mines, 250 detonators and 25 Kg of C4 explosives have been unearthed from the dump that was found in thicket.
Clearing operations are being continued.
According to the defence sources in the East, 26 claymore mines, 61 anti personnel mines, 3 anti tank mines, 250 detonators and 25 Kg of C4 explosives have been unearthed from the dump that was found in thicket.
Clearing operations are being continued.
LTTE terrorists explode claymore mine close to the Children's Park: 12 year old child injured - Jaffna
LTTE terrorists this evening (July 30) carried out a cowardly claymore attack at Gurunagar in Jaffna, injuring a 12 year old child who was passing by. Defence sources said that the bomb was exploded in front of the Children's Park at Gurunagar targeting a government vehicle that was attached to the Building Material Corporation around 3.40p.m.
The sources further said that the LTTE terrorists might have orchestrated this attack to terrorize the Jaffna civilians who have been extremely supportive to the security forces' counter terror operations in the peninsula. The LTTE leadership is believed to have infuriated by security forces regular findings of bombs and other weapons hidden at various locations in the peninsula with the help of civilian information.
The LTTE is a terror outfit fighting for a mono ethnic homeland for the Tamils living in Sri Lanka since 1983. During its two decade of terror the LTTE has been able to turn the whole Northern Province of the Island into a mono ethnic hellhole by ruthless ethnic cleansing raids that killed thousands of Muslims and Sinhalese. Despite its self assumed sole representative status among Tamil population the LTTE had killed a large number of Tamil intellectuals, religious and political leaders and many thousands of moderate Tamil civilians who had the courage to refuse its extreme racist ideologies. The LTTE is also in the international list of shame for forcing children to war. A Norway-based non-governmental organization, Norwegians Against Terrorism (NAT), recently called the outfit to be the "worst terrorist organization known to mankind" in its comprehensive report forwarded to the United States vice president Dick Chaney
The sources further said that the LTTE terrorists might have orchestrated this attack to terrorize the Jaffna civilians who have been extremely supportive to the security forces' counter terror operations in the peninsula. The LTTE leadership is believed to have infuriated by security forces regular findings of bombs and other weapons hidden at various locations in the peninsula with the help of civilian information.
The LTTE is a terror outfit fighting for a mono ethnic homeland for the Tamils living in Sri Lanka since 1983. During its two decade of terror the LTTE has been able to turn the whole Northern Province of the Island into a mono ethnic hellhole by ruthless ethnic cleansing raids that killed thousands of Muslims and Sinhalese. Despite its self assumed sole representative status among Tamil population the LTTE had killed a large number of Tamil intellectuals, religious and political leaders and many thousands of moderate Tamil civilians who had the courage to refuse its extreme racist ideologies. The LTTE is also in the international list of shame for forcing children to war. A Norway-based non-governmental organization, Norwegians Against Terrorism (NAT), recently called the outfit to be the "worst terrorist organization known to mankind" in its comprehensive report forwarded to the United States vice president Dick Chaney
Monday, July 30, 2007
Sri Lanka struggles on road for carbon credits
Global warming is increasingly being recognized as a threat around the world, but the business of carbon trading to reduce global warming could prove a blessing for developing countries.But it is by no means easy money.
Developed countries are seen as the main culprits of global warming due to wide scale industrialization and burning of fossil fuels that spew greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Gases like carbon dioxide, methane and other hydrocarbons –or greenhouse gases – absorb the sun’s radiation, heating up the atmosphere, leading to effects such as erratic climate changes and the melting of polar icecaps.
Developed countries have agreed to pay for damage control projects in developing countries like Sri Lanka that have not yet reached their carbon limit, to offset their own emissions – a process called carbon trading.
"It is the industrial countries that have to take the lead," Mohan Munasinghe, a scientist and an expert on global warming who works for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change told ETV's Lanka Business Report.
“And they should take the lead in solving it. It is unrealistic to think that Sri Lanka can reduce energy consumption when somebody in the USA can do it easily.”
Developed countries are seen as the main culprits of global warming due to wide scale industrialization and burning of fossil fuels that spew greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Gases like carbon dioxide, methane and other hydrocarbons –or greenhouse gases – absorb the sun’s radiation, heating up the atmosphere, leading to effects such as erratic climate changes and the melting of polar icecaps.
Developed countries have agreed to pay for damage control projects in developing countries like Sri Lanka that have not yet reached their carbon limit, to offset their own emissions – a process called carbon trading.
"It is the industrial countries that have to take the lead," Mohan Munasinghe, a scientist and an expert on global warming who works for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change told ETV's Lanka Business Report.
“And they should take the lead in solving it. It is unrealistic to think that Sri Lanka can reduce energy consumption when somebody in the USA can do it easily.”
Defence Secretary visits Thoppigala
Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa toured the Thoppigala area on Saturday to recognise and pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who liberated Thoppigala and to inspect the security situation in the East.
The Defence Secretary was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Donald Perera and Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka and they were received by Brigadier C.P. Gallege, the Commander of Commando Brigade.
The Defence Secretary also advised the troops on the resettlement programme of the displaced families and as well as on the further security measures in the East.
The Defence Secretary also unveiled the monument that was erected at Iluppadichenai junction in Karadiyanaru to commemorate the fallen war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice for the Motherland during the Thoppigala liberation operation and to encourage the Security Forces personnel who liberated the Eastern province from the LTTE terrorists.
A road was named to commemorate Sergeant Pathirana who paid the supreme sacrifice in the humanitarian mission of Thoppigala.
The Defence Secretary was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Donald Perera and Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka and they were received by Brigadier C.P. Gallege, the Commander of Commando Brigade.
The Defence Secretary also advised the troops on the resettlement programme of the displaced families and as well as on the further security measures in the East.
The Defence Secretary also unveiled the monument that was erected at Iluppadichenai junction in Karadiyanaru to commemorate the fallen war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice for the Motherland during the Thoppigala liberation operation and to encourage the Security Forces personnel who liberated the Eastern province from the LTTE terrorists.
A road was named to commemorate Sergeant Pathirana who paid the supreme sacrifice in the humanitarian mission of Thoppigala.
Live telecast of Kandy perahera to 17 countries
KANDY: Sri Lanka’s biggest Cultural pageant, the World renowned Kandy Esela Perahera is to be telecast live in 17 countries through Satellite, Intel sat-60.
The Ministry of Tourism has taken this initiative in a bid to boost tourism and to portray the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka to the world.
The live telecast would be shown in Japan, Italy, Australia, Taiwan, Tailand, South Korea, India etc. In addition Ministry sources said that there was a possibility of live coverage being carried out in the UK and USA too.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Faizer Musthapa undertook a tour of Kandy recently to discuss many developments and ideas to promote foreign and domestic tourism in the hill capital where he met all relevant sectors and vowed to make Kandy a happening place during the festive season.
The Deputy Minister said that he intended to promote Kandy as a viable destination for both local and foreign tourists.
He also called on the Maha Nayake Thera’s during the visit to seek guidance and blessings. Special attention was drawn to the subject of presenting the image of Dalada Maligawa and our heritage to all visitors.
It is expected that at least 100,000 people would attend the first day of the Perahera which would grow with the climaxing of the Randoli. Arrangements are being made to cater to this influx to make it enjoyable and hassle free, sources said.
The Ministry of Tourism has taken this initiative in a bid to boost tourism and to portray the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka to the world.
The live telecast would be shown in Japan, Italy, Australia, Taiwan, Tailand, South Korea, India etc. In addition Ministry sources said that there was a possibility of live coverage being carried out in the UK and USA too.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Faizer Musthapa undertook a tour of Kandy recently to discuss many developments and ideas to promote foreign and domestic tourism in the hill capital where he met all relevant sectors and vowed to make Kandy a happening place during the festive season.
The Deputy Minister said that he intended to promote Kandy as a viable destination for both local and foreign tourists.
He also called on the Maha Nayake Thera’s during the visit to seek guidance and blessings. Special attention was drawn to the subject of presenting the image of Dalada Maligawa and our heritage to all visitors.
It is expected that at least 100,000 people would attend the first day of the Perahera which would grow with the climaxing of the Randoli. Arrangements are being made to cater to this influx to make it enjoyable and hassle free, sources said.
Kruna debarred from contesting election
COLOMBO: In an obvious blow to LTTE renegade leader Karuna Amman's much hyped political future, his political arm Tamileela Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal (TMVP) will not be allowed to contest the forthcoming Eastern Province election scheduled to be held before the end of this year, reports said Sunday. The TMVP which has some 20 political offices in the Eastern Province and one in Colombo has not been recognised as a political party by the Commissioner of Elections Dayananda Dissanayake as of July 10, 2007.
The TMVP (also known in English as Tamileela People's Liberation Tigers) initially submitted their application to the Department of Elections on October 12, 2004 to be a registered and a recognised political party in Sri Lanka.
"However, it's been nearly three years since the application was handed over to the department by TMVP Secretary General G. R. Gnanarajah, but the department is yet to recognize this party," highly placed sources said. The latest list updated by the Elections Secretariat as of July 10, consists of 53 recognised political parties with each of these parties being granted a unique symbol, but the list does not include the TMVP.
The TMVP (also known in English as Tamileela People's Liberation Tigers) initially submitted their application to the Department of Elections on October 12, 2004 to be a registered and a recognised political party in Sri Lanka.
"However, it's been nearly three years since the application was handed over to the department by TMVP Secretary General G. R. Gnanarajah, but the department is yet to recognize this party," highly placed sources said. The latest list updated by the Elections Secretariat as of July 10, consists of 53 recognised political parties with each of these parties being granted a unique symbol, but the list does not include the TMVP.
Sri Lanka set for record growth despite conflict
COLOMBO (AFP) - The recent escalation in fighting in Sri Lanka has not derailed the nation's economy, with the island on track to record its fastest growth in nearly three decades, according to the central bank.
Conflict between government troops and Tamil rebels has claimed more than 5,200 lives since late 2005, with ministers raising annual defence spending 45 percent to 139 billion rupees (1.3 billion dollars) to battle the insurgents.
Yet the bank last week said it was projecting 7.5 percent growth for 2007, the strongest in 29 years, despite a mounting body count.
Sri Lanka's economy grew by 7.4 percent in 2006 fuelled by the telecom, garment and banking sectors.
"We admit terrorism has an impact on us," Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor Nivard Cabraal told AFP, referring to the conflict, which economists estimate cuts about two percent off the annual growth rate.
Conflict between government troops and Tamil rebels has claimed more than 5,200 lives since late 2005, with ministers raising annual defence spending 45 percent to 139 billion rupees (1.3 billion dollars) to battle the insurgents.
Yet the bank last week said it was projecting 7.5 percent growth for 2007, the strongest in 29 years, despite a mounting body count.
Sri Lanka's economy grew by 7.4 percent in 2006 fuelled by the telecom, garment and banking sectors.
"We admit terrorism has an impact on us," Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor Nivard Cabraal told AFP, referring to the conflict, which economists estimate cuts about two percent off the annual growth rate.
The many faces of Terror
There is no simple answer to the question 'who could become a terrorist?' The general picture of a terrorist is a man or woman brainwashed into becoming a fighter or in extreme cases, a suicide bomber.
The average terrorist is likely to be uneducated, poor, unemployed and unsophisticated. In the case of organisations such as the LTTE, most cadres have simply been conscripted while still in their teens.
However, recent acts of terror in the UK and elsewhere have perplexed terrorism experts, sociologists and criminologists as the perpetrators did not match the profile of the average terrorist.
The brains behind the 'flaming Jeep' attack on the Glasgow Airport and the Mercedes car bombs in London (which were fortunately found before they could be triggered off) were doctors, medical students and engineers from Iraq, Jordan and South Asia.
They were from good families that were economically stable and they apparently had no reason to harbour a grudge against the country they were in. Perhaps the one thing that united them was a belief that Islam was in danger.
The extent to which global terrorism, spearheaded by the likes of al-Qaeda and indeed, the LTTE, can influence sane individuals, can be gauged from the fact that the Glasgow Jeep attackers were doctors.
That is the last profession one would associate with killing and attempting to take one's own life through an act of terror. Yet it happened.
The average terrorist is likely to be uneducated, poor, unemployed and unsophisticated. In the case of organisations such as the LTTE, most cadres have simply been conscripted while still in their teens.
However, recent acts of terror in the UK and elsewhere have perplexed terrorism experts, sociologists and criminologists as the perpetrators did not match the profile of the average terrorist.
The brains behind the 'flaming Jeep' attack on the Glasgow Airport and the Mercedes car bombs in London (which were fortunately found before they could be triggered off) were doctors, medical students and engineers from Iraq, Jordan and South Asia.
They were from good families that were economically stable and they apparently had no reason to harbour a grudge against the country they were in. Perhaps the one thing that united them was a belief that Islam was in danger.
The extent to which global terrorism, spearheaded by the likes of al-Qaeda and indeed, the LTTE, can influence sane individuals, can be gauged from the fact that the Glasgow Jeep attackers were doctors.
That is the last profession one would associate with killing and attempting to take one's own life through an act of terror. Yet it happened.
Navy thwarts terror sea move; two LTTE boats destroyed-Vidattaltivu
SL navy patrol craft yesterday (July 28) destroyed two LTTE boats which had been moving towards Vidattaltivu area, on the North Western coast of the Island. According to the Naval sources six LTTE cadres were killed in the incident that had occurred around 4:30 last evening.
The North Western coast of the Island from North of Mannar to Elephantpass has become the main platform that enables the LTTE terrorists to continue their cross border activities, since they had lost control over the Eastern Waters. Also, SL Navy with its expanded capabilities has been able to deny the terror use of the Island's North Eastern waters almost completely.
During the recent past the LTTE terrorists have murdered many Indian fishermen and abducted many others. The terrorists are also known to have hijacked Indian fishing boats to transport their weapons and even sunk few boats that had refused to comply with their orders. However India, the world's largest democracy and the regional super power has been able to deny the terror use of her sea lines of communication to a larger extent with her recently increased sea patrols in the South Indian waters. At one time, the LTTE terrorists had been able to assassinate former Indian Prime Minister, Rajeev Ghandi by exploding one of their "suicide-girls" at a highly defended public gathering at Tamil Nadu.
Navy patrol craft had initially detected a cluster of Indian trawlers poaching in the SL waters at a location 10 nautical Miles West of Vidattaltivu. When the navy craft approached the boat cluster two suspicious boats that were among the Indian boats have speeded themselves away from the Indian boats firing Rocket Propeller Grenades and Small arms at the Navy craft. After a short sea confrontation the navy sailors were able to destroy the terror boats. Naval sources said that there were four LTTE cadres in one boat and two in the other.
The North Western coast of the Island from North of Mannar to Elephantpass has become the main platform that enables the LTTE terrorists to continue their cross border activities, since they had lost control over the Eastern Waters. Also, SL Navy with its expanded capabilities has been able to deny the terror use of the Island's North Eastern waters almost completely.
During the recent past the LTTE terrorists have murdered many Indian fishermen and abducted many others. The terrorists are also known to have hijacked Indian fishing boats to transport their weapons and even sunk few boats that had refused to comply with their orders. However India, the world's largest democracy and the regional super power has been able to deny the terror use of her sea lines of communication to a larger extent with her recently increased sea patrols in the South Indian waters. At one time, the LTTE terrorists had been able to assassinate former Indian Prime Minister, Rajeev Ghandi by exploding one of their "suicide-girls" at a highly defended public gathering at Tamil Nadu.
Foreign Minister asks International Crisis Group to study reason for the breakdown of previous rounds of peace talks
Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Sunday (29 July) asked the International Crisis Group which works to prevent conflict worldwide, to undertake an in-depth study on the reason for the breakdown of a number of previous rounds of peace talks between the Sri Lanka Government and the LTTE since 1985. He said such a study will show that it was not a lack of commitment of successive Sri Lankan Governments, but the lack of interest and incapacity on the part of the LTTE to engage in a political dialogue with sincerity, that resulted in the prolongation of the conflict in Sri Lanka.
The Minister made this observation when the Chairman and CEO of the Belgium based International Crisis Group, Former Australian Foreign Minister Garath Evans called on him Sunday morning (29 July). Mr. Evans is visiting Colombo to deliver the annual Neelan Tiruchelvam Memorial oration.
The Minister commenting on the contribution made by Dr. Tiruchelvam, pointed out that the Tamil scholar-parliamentarian was one of those who had worked tirelessly to evolve a negotiated political settlement. His becoming a victim of LTTE terror, belied the LTTE's pretensions of peace.
Discussing the Government's current thinking in the aftermath of the clearing of the Eastern Province of LTTE presence, the Minister explained that this successful operation was a result of action taken by the security forces over the past year since the LTTE decided to cause disruption in the Eastern Province with the cutting off of water supply at Mavil Aru and also attacks on Trincomalee port.
Minister Bogollagama re-iterated that the government was fully committed to a negotiated political settlement and was working towards it through the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC) which is expected to announce its conclusions shortly. He said the Government would rather see the LTTE also become stake holders in this search for peace, but noted that so long as the LTTE continued to threaten civil life and attack strategic and economic targets in the South, the Government will not hesitate to seek to destroy its capacity to do so.
The Minister made this observation when the Chairman and CEO of the Belgium based International Crisis Group, Former Australian Foreign Minister Garath Evans called on him Sunday morning (29 July). Mr. Evans is visiting Colombo to deliver the annual Neelan Tiruchelvam Memorial oration.
The Minister commenting on the contribution made by Dr. Tiruchelvam, pointed out that the Tamil scholar-parliamentarian was one of those who had worked tirelessly to evolve a negotiated political settlement. His becoming a victim of LTTE terror, belied the LTTE's pretensions of peace.
Discussing the Government's current thinking in the aftermath of the clearing of the Eastern Province of LTTE presence, the Minister explained that this successful operation was a result of action taken by the security forces over the past year since the LTTE decided to cause disruption in the Eastern Province with the cutting off of water supply at Mavil Aru and also attacks on Trincomalee port.
Minister Bogollagama re-iterated that the government was fully committed to a negotiated political settlement and was working towards it through the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC) which is expected to announce its conclusions shortly. He said the Government would rather see the LTTE also become stake holders in this search for peace, but noted that so long as the LTTE continued to threaten civil life and attack strategic and economic targets in the South, the Government will not hesitate to seek to destroy its capacity to do so.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Cambodia denies providing weapons for rebels in Sri Lanka
Cambodian Minister of Defense Tea Banh has denied report that Cambodia was a source of weapons for Sri Lanka's Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam, local press reported on Wednesday.
The report is entirely groundless, and there is no authentic evidence to prove it, the Cambodia Sin Chew Daily quoted Tea Banh as saying.The weapons which belong to the Cambodian government are all in the country, he said, adding that nobody will export them to foreign countries.
The minister made the comments in response to recent reports that Cambodia remains a significant source of weapons for Sri Lanka's separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam.The Jane's Intelligence Review said on its website on Thursday that "Cambodia is one of the most significant single source of weapons for the insurgent group".
The report is entirely groundless, and there is no authentic evidence to prove it, the Cambodia Sin Chew Daily quoted Tea Banh as saying.The weapons which belong to the Cambodian government are all in the country, he said, adding that nobody will export them to foreign countries.
The minister made the comments in response to recent reports that Cambodia remains a significant source of weapons for Sri Lanka's separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam.The Jane's Intelligence Review said on its website on Thursday that "Cambodia is one of the most significant single source of weapons for the insurgent group".
Sri Lanka fights threatened beheading of teen maid in Saudi Arabia over death of infant
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka: Rizana Nafeek, who left Sri Lanka as a teenager to work as a maid in Saudi Arabia, could be decapitated before she turns 20.
Saving her from beheading has become one of the most urgent issues in a country where nearly everyone has worked abroad or had a relative employed overseas.
Nafeek went to Saudi Arabia two years ago to work as a maid but was given the additional duty of looking after a baby boy, which she was not trained to do. The Sri Lankan Embassy says the infant died on May 22, 2005, while she was bottle-feeding him.
Nafeek, who was without legal representation at trial, allegedly confessed to her guilt in the child's death, according to the embassy, but then recanted, saying her confession was obtained under duress. Human rights groups say the boy's death appeared to be an accident.
The government has sent a delegation including Nafeek's parents and the deputy foreign minister to Saudi Arabia to plead for her life. Activists say the case underscores the vulnerability of Sri Lankans willing to work overseas.
Saving her from beheading has become one of the most urgent issues in a country where nearly everyone has worked abroad or had a relative employed overseas.
Nafeek went to Saudi Arabia two years ago to work as a maid but was given the additional duty of looking after a baby boy, which she was not trained to do. The Sri Lankan Embassy says the infant died on May 22, 2005, while she was bottle-feeding him.
Nafeek, who was without legal representation at trial, allegedly confessed to her guilt in the child's death, according to the embassy, but then recanted, saying her confession was obtained under duress. Human rights groups say the boy's death appeared to be an accident.
The government has sent a delegation including Nafeek's parents and the deputy foreign minister to Saudi Arabia to plead for her life. Activists say the case underscores the vulnerability of Sri Lankans willing to work overseas.
Thoppigala - Digital camera reveals LTTE prisoners
Security forces carrying out a clearing operation at Thoppigala (July 24) recovered a digital camera left behind by the fleeing LTTE terrorists, which gave a wealth of information, particularly about the LTTE's prisoners.
Defence sources said it contained photographs of 73 people held prisoner by the LTTE in Thoppigala. The photographs revealed that the prisoners had been tortured and exposed the inhuman conditions. They were of Tamil civilians imprisoned by the LTTE.
It is known that innocent civilians were detained under inhuman conditions for refusing to support the LTTE, pay ransom to the terrorists, or for their refusal to carry out the LTTE's orders.
A group of prisoners held in Thoppigala who escaped from the LTTE revealed to the security forces that over a period of time the LTTE tortured and killed nearly 100 people in their custody. The fate of the prisoners in the photographs found in the camera was not known.
Defence sources said it contained photographs of 73 people held prisoner by the LTTE in Thoppigala. The photographs revealed that the prisoners had been tortured and exposed the inhuman conditions. They were of Tamil civilians imprisoned by the LTTE.
It is known that innocent civilians were detained under inhuman conditions for refusing to support the LTTE, pay ransom to the terrorists, or for their refusal to carry out the LTTE's orders.
A group of prisoners held in Thoppigala who escaped from the LTTE revealed to the security forces that over a period of time the LTTE tortured and killed nearly 100 people in their custody. The fate of the prisoners in the photographs found in the camera was not known.
SLN divers brave rough waters to secure 'monster' mines off Sea Tiger bases
The Sri Lanka Navy had recovered 30 sea mines placed off Sea Tiger bases at Thalaiadi and Nayaru on the Mullaitivu coast.
SLN divers had braved rough waters to secure the monster mines placed by Sea Tigers as part of the measures to discourage Fast Attack Craft (FAC) from moving too close to the coast.
The recovery had been made during the final stages of the SLA's ground campaign in the Eastern Province. "We went into action in day light. SLN units involved in the mine clearing operation believe that Sea Tigers had not been aware of the action," an authoritative SLN spokesman said. According to him, the mines, each weighing about 30 Kgs, had been laid approximately 2Kms off the land.
Dubbed by the SLN as 'bulb bomb' it had been designed to explode when naval craft collide with it. "A single explosion would have been catastrophic," the official said.
Major Sea Tiger bases on the Mullaitivu coast are under constant naval monitoring. This is part of the SLN's strategy to prevent the enemy from launching a flotilla spearheaded by explosives laden craft to target naval movements. Based on intelligence provided by the SLN, the SLAF target Sea Tiger bases.
With the loss of major Sea Tiger launching pads on the eastern coast, their bases on the Mullaitivu and Mannar coast had come under increased SLN pressure.
The SLN had inflicted major losses on Sea Tigers recently with the capture of a 16 meter-long attack craft, believed to be built in an Indonesian dockyard equipped with Chinese armaments, being perhaps a decisive victory.
SLN divers had braved rough waters to secure the monster mines placed by Sea Tigers as part of the measures to discourage Fast Attack Craft (FAC) from moving too close to the coast.
The recovery had been made during the final stages of the SLA's ground campaign in the Eastern Province. "We went into action in day light. SLN units involved in the mine clearing operation believe that Sea Tigers had not been aware of the action," an authoritative SLN spokesman said. According to him, the mines, each weighing about 30 Kgs, had been laid approximately 2Kms off the land.
Dubbed by the SLN as 'bulb bomb' it had been designed to explode when naval craft collide with it. "A single explosion would have been catastrophic," the official said.
Major Sea Tiger bases on the Mullaitivu coast are under constant naval monitoring. This is part of the SLN's strategy to prevent the enemy from launching a flotilla spearheaded by explosives laden craft to target naval movements. Based on intelligence provided by the SLN, the SLAF target Sea Tiger bases.
With the loss of major Sea Tiger launching pads on the eastern coast, their bases on the Mullaitivu and Mannar coast had come under increased SLN pressure.
The SLN had inflicted major losses on Sea Tigers recently with the capture of a 16 meter-long attack craft, believed to be built in an Indonesian dockyard equipped with Chinese armaments, being perhaps a decisive victory.
East rising for prosperity from decades of conflict
With the liberation of entire east from the clutches of the LTTE the Government has allocated a large sum of funds for the development of East. Accordingly under the swift restoration process a sum of Rs.980 million will be utilized for the upliftment of the fishing industry in the area.
East has been identified as one of the best coastal region in the country that could contribute a large harvest of fish with the added nutritional and environmental factors optimum for fish cultivation.
Initially the Government will launch the development projects in Trincomalee, Ampara and Batticaloa and later expand to the other areas respectively. The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Asian Development Bank, International Agriculture Development Organisations and Iceland Development Bank will fund this project.
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will establish fishing harbours in Muttur, Pottuvil, Manmune, Vakarai and Kucharweli under the development programme 'Thotupola Aruna' with an estimated cost of 7.8 million for the construction of each harbour.
Funds have been allocated for the construction of the Valachchen harbour and Puduwakattu harbours with $2.1 million and $2.8 million respectively.
East has been identified as one of the best coastal region in the country that could contribute a large harvest of fish with the added nutritional and environmental factors optimum for fish cultivation.
Initially the Government will launch the development projects in Trincomalee, Ampara and Batticaloa and later expand to the other areas respectively. The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Asian Development Bank, International Agriculture Development Organisations and Iceland Development Bank will fund this project.
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will establish fishing harbours in Muttur, Pottuvil, Manmune, Vakarai and Kucharweli under the development programme 'Thotupola Aruna' with an estimated cost of 7.8 million for the construction of each harbour.
Funds have been allocated for the construction of the Valachchen harbour and Puduwakattu harbours with $2.1 million and $2.8 million respectively.
Monday, July 23, 2007
LTTE gunmen slay Tamil youth - Jaffna
Alleged LTTE gunmen shot dead a Tamil youth identified as Mariyanayagam Aloysius (26) in the Kakathivu Junction area at Anaicoddai - Jaffna, on around 08.30 am today Monday ( July 23).
Upon information from civilians, Police immediately rushed to the crime scene located about 4km from the Manippay Police division. The Mallakam Magistrate Mrs. Illangowan was also present at the scene for detailed investigations. The Mallakam Magistrate has given directives for the postmortem to be conducted at the Teaching Hospital at Jaffna, the officials added.
Civil sources of the area believed the youth was gunned down by unidentified LTTE operatives in the area. Manippay Police officials said the youth's body was riddled with gunshot wounds caused by a revolver, and that ammunition relating to the incident was also recovered from the location for further investigations.
Police officials stated that the victim a resident at Pandattirippu in Jaffna, was also an aid worker at the 'Danish Refugee Council', an International Non Government Organisation dedicated in facilitating access to water supplies and sanitation facilities to IDPs.
Upon information from civilians, Police immediately rushed to the crime scene located about 4km from the Manippay Police division. The Mallakam Magistrate Mrs. Illangowan was also present at the scene for detailed investigations. The Mallakam Magistrate has given directives for the postmortem to be conducted at the Teaching Hospital at Jaffna, the officials added.
Civil sources of the area believed the youth was gunned down by unidentified LTTE operatives in the area. Manippay Police officials said the youth's body was riddled with gunshot wounds caused by a revolver, and that ammunition relating to the incident was also recovered from the location for further investigations.
Police officials stated that the victim a resident at Pandattirippu in Jaffna, was also an aid worker at the 'Danish Refugee Council', an International Non Government Organisation dedicated in facilitating access to water supplies and sanitation facilities to IDPs.
Friday, July 20, 2007
ABC Group ties up with Sudanese Central Bank for technical assistance
The Central Bank of Sudan (CBS) will give technical assistance and auditory services to ABC investment's overall Islamic Finance services.
Assistant Governor of Central bank of Sudan, Osman Hamad Mohd Kair said at the meeting with the Deputy Chairman, ABC Investment Shiran Dissanayake on working together in development projects with various capacities that CBS is working on developing various innovative Islamic financial instruments, specifically some financial derivatives.
"We are also planning to work on micro-financing under the umbrella of ABC Group," he said.
"We have some experience in Sri Lanka, when we worked on Tsunami projects, there are some small projects,yet to complete. We will also join ABC in future to work on some more development projects," Deputy Secretary General, Alzubair Charity Foundation, Tariq Abdul Fattah said. Sudan has plans to assist ABC Investments by giving technical assistance on Islamic Financing, where Sudan has a long history.
The Assistant Governor said the Central Bank of Sudan has a strong experience in managing the overall liquidity of the country and it has improved Sudan's Gross Domestic Production from 170 per cent to 7 per cent in a short time period.
"We can share our experiences with Sri Lankan conditions on the GDP improvement as well. In future we will be taking action to build good development programmes with the technical assistance.
We have ideas to interact with people to develop awareness of this matter with the support of ABC Group, he said.
"This partnership will develop good practices of savings and investments within the country. Government Investment certificate, Ijara Certificates and Musharaka Certificates are issued by the Central Bank of Sudan to manage the overall liquidity of the country. These principal techniques can be shared with Sri Lanka by joining with ABC Group," Osman said.
He said that the ABC Group will be able to set up business in Sudan in future under this strategic partnership. "We can find opportunities to bring financial institutions of Sudan to serve Sri Lanka, too," he said.
Assistant Governor of Central bank of Sudan, Osman Hamad Mohd Kair said at the meeting with the Deputy Chairman, ABC Investment Shiran Dissanayake on working together in development projects with various capacities that CBS is working on developing various innovative Islamic financial instruments, specifically some financial derivatives.
"We are also planning to work on micro-financing under the umbrella of ABC Group," he said.
"We have some experience in Sri Lanka, when we worked on Tsunami projects, there are some small projects,yet to complete. We will also join ABC in future to work on some more development projects," Deputy Secretary General, Alzubair Charity Foundation, Tariq Abdul Fattah said. Sudan has plans to assist ABC Investments by giving technical assistance on Islamic Financing, where Sudan has a long history.
The Assistant Governor said the Central Bank of Sudan has a strong experience in managing the overall liquidity of the country and it has improved Sudan's Gross Domestic Production from 170 per cent to 7 per cent in a short time period.
"We can share our experiences with Sri Lankan conditions on the GDP improvement as well. In future we will be taking action to build good development programmes with the technical assistance.
We have ideas to interact with people to develop awareness of this matter with the support of ABC Group, he said.
"This partnership will develop good practices of savings and investments within the country. Government Investment certificate, Ijara Certificates and Musharaka Certificates are issued by the Central Bank of Sudan to manage the overall liquidity of the country. These principal techniques can be shared with Sri Lanka by joining with ABC Group," Osman said.
He said that the ABC Group will be able to set up business in Sudan in future under this strategic partnership. "We can find opportunities to bring financial institutions of Sudan to serve Sri Lanka, too," he said.
Central Bank may up bond issue to $500 mln
The Central Bank may increase the size of a planned sovereign bond issue to $500 million from $400 million if there is sufficient demand, the Governor said on Thursday. If successful, the Central Bank could be tempted to look at issuing a further tranche, Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal told Reuters in a telephone interview.
"We don't want to stretch ourselves any more than we need to," he said. "This, we think, is comfortable as far as our own set of projects in hand (goes), but if we find that (the uptake) is very good, we might be tempted to look at something."
The bond, which Sri Lanka hopes to issue by mid October, would be the island's biggest dollar bond issue. It would be snapped up if it was priced to yield 8 percent, said ING economist Tim Condon.
"At the right price the appetite would be voracious. This is a new name and people are hungry for diversity," Condon said.
The central bank had received 11 bids from 14 banks to act as lead manager, the central bank chief said.
They had been asked to bid for both a $400 million bond offer and a $500 million offer, he said.
The bond's proceeds would be for infrastructure projects, said Deputy Governor W.A. Wijewardena.
"We don't want to stretch ourselves any more than we need to," he said. "This, we think, is comfortable as far as our own set of projects in hand (goes), but if we find that (the uptake) is very good, we might be tempted to look at something."
The bond, which Sri Lanka hopes to issue by mid October, would be the island's biggest dollar bond issue. It would be snapped up if it was priced to yield 8 percent, said ING economist Tim Condon.
"At the right price the appetite would be voracious. This is a new name and people are hungry for diversity," Condon said.
The central bank had received 11 bids from 14 banks to act as lead manager, the central bank chief said.
They had been asked to bid for both a $400 million bond offer and a $500 million offer, he said.
The bond's proceeds would be for infrastructure projects, said Deputy Governor W.A. Wijewardena.
LTTE attempt to infiltrate the FDL averted - Mannar
The LTTE terrorists have launched an attack at the Forward Defence Line in Mannar in early hours this morning, Friday July 20.
According to the defence sources an Army detachment at Neelachchena in the Mannar area came under LTTE mortar attack around 2:45 a.m. today and security forces have retaliated inflicting casualties to the LTTE.
Media Centre for National Security says three army soldiers were killed and other four were wounded due to the incident.
By intercepting the LTTE communication, it is revealed that at least 9 LTTE cadres were killed and more that 20 received injuries due to the effective retaliation launched by army troops.
According to latest information, following list of items has been uncovered by the security forces in a subsequent search operation conducted in the area where the confrontation took place.
T-56 rifles- 03
T-56 Magazines -13
T-56 Ammunition - 355
RPG bombs - 03
Hand grenades - 03
Stretcher - 01
Water bottle - 01
Rubber slippers
According to the defence sources an Army detachment at Neelachchena in the Mannar area came under LTTE mortar attack around 2:45 a.m. today and security forces have retaliated inflicting casualties to the LTTE.
Media Centre for National Security says three army soldiers were killed and other four were wounded due to the incident.
By intercepting the LTTE communication, it is revealed that at least 9 LTTE cadres were killed and more that 20 received injuries due to the effective retaliation launched by army troops.
According to latest information, following list of items has been uncovered by the security forces in a subsequent search operation conducted in the area where the confrontation took place.
T-56 rifles- 03
T-56 Magazines -13
T-56 Ammunition - 355
RPG bombs - 03
Hand grenades - 03
Stretcher - 01
Water bottle - 01
Rubber slippers
Three LTTE cadres killed; 81 mm mortar gun captured
Three LTTE cadres were killed when Army troops continuing mopping up operations in the Thoppigala jungle confronted a group of LTTE terrorists in the Peraveli general area, South of Thoppigala this morning (July 20).
The incident occurred when troops attacked the LTTE terrorists who had been trying to escape the Thoppigala jungle around 10:30 a.m. Troops also captured one 81 mm mortar gun from the fleeing LTTE cadres.
The incident occurred when troops attacked the LTTE terrorists who had been trying to escape the Thoppigala jungle around 10:30 a.m. Troops also captured one 81 mm mortar gun from the fleeing LTTE cadres.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Army uncovers an LTTE heavy weapon (MBRL) - Thoppigala
Defence sources in the east reveal that troops conducting search operations in the Thoppigala jungle have found one of the Multi Barrel Rocket Launchers (MBRL) belonged to the LTTE terrorists from Omunugala area short while ago.
According to the sources, the troops have dug up the MBRL which was found dumped at a location close to Omunugala in the West of Narakamula.
The troops made this discovery amid the abominable campaign run by certain political scum in the South to bring disgrace over the heroic soldiers who won an epic victory against the terrorists in the Eastern province. Recently, some of these politicians have even gone the extent of insulting the soldiers by referring to the fate of the LTTE arsenal in Thoppigala.
According to the sources, the troops have dug up the MBRL which was found dumped at a location close to Omunugala in the West of Narakamula.
The troops made this discovery amid the abominable campaign run by certain political scum in the South to bring disgrace over the heroic soldiers who won an epic victory against the terrorists in the Eastern province. Recently, some of these politicians have even gone the extent of insulting the soldiers by referring to the fate of the LTTE arsenal in Thoppigala.
Strategic Importance of Eastern Province
Various theories, views and opinions have been expressed and published both by the Eelamists as well as those who oppose Eelam on the above subject over the past two decades of the Eelam War. I am, yet to see a proper analysis of the importance of the Eastern Province. Geographically the Eastern province has the longest coast line than any other province in Sri Lanka. This is naturally, connected to the unlimited oceanic, resources" minerals and the marine. There is no doubt that we cannot underestimate the importance of the Eastern coast for the Economy of this Country. Equally it is more important for the Eelamists, if they ever establish the Eelam. I do not have to emphasize the location of the biggest natural harbour the Trincomalee, harbour, in the Indian Ocean, perhaps in the whole World. This had been amply proved by the British and the Allied Forces in the World War II and the Japanese attempts to destroy the shipping of the Allied Forces. The latest is the obvious Indian displayed during the beginning of the Eelam War and the continuous attempt by India to have a hold on it for there commercial and strategic purposes.
The natural resources mineral and marine explored and unexplored am unlimited off the Eastern cost. Sri Lankan Government is not going to give to Eelam or any other outside nation unless they vanquish us and capture by force.
The LTTE has already completed ethnic cleansing of the Northern Province. Gradually and systematically they drove away the Sinhalese business men, bakers, transporters and the limited farming community from the North. There is- hardly any Sinhala Government servant in the Northern Province except in the enclaves well protected by Security Forces. They extended this ethnic cleansing to Muslims who were forcibly driven away with in 24 to 48 hour san their money, jewellery and all movable and immovable property
Compared to the Northern Province the heterogeneously populated Eastern province has a better chance of survival. Tamil Sinhala and Muslim communities are more or less equally balanced in numbers, although Muslims are confined to certain pockets. For centuries and generations they have been in co-existence and living happily. Even the History of our Nation has shown limited intermarriages in between races. This coexistence has not shown any bad results.
The natural resources mineral and marine explored and unexplored am unlimited off the Eastern cost. Sri Lankan Government is not going to give to Eelam or any other outside nation unless they vanquish us and capture by force.
The LTTE has already completed ethnic cleansing of the Northern Province. Gradually and systematically they drove away the Sinhalese business men, bakers, transporters and the limited farming community from the North. There is- hardly any Sinhala Government servant in the Northern Province except in the enclaves well protected by Security Forces. They extended this ethnic cleansing to Muslims who were forcibly driven away with in 24 to 48 hour san their money, jewellery and all movable and immovable property
Compared to the Northern Province the heterogeneously populated Eastern province has a better chance of survival. Tamil Sinhala and Muslim communities are more or less equally balanced in numbers, although Muslims are confined to certain pockets. For centuries and generations they have been in co-existence and living happily. Even the History of our Nation has shown limited intermarriages in between races. This coexistence has not shown any bad results.
More terrorists fall prey to army ambushes-Thoppigala
Adding to the earlier incidents, army has ambushed two more LTTE groups at Koggalagala and Sittandi, killing three more LTTE cadres this afternoon (15, July), the Media Center for National Security (MCNS) said.
At Koggalagala, 11 Km west of Narakamulla, troops confronted a group of LTTE cadres trying to flee Thoppigala, killing one LTTE cadre. Troops have also captured 11 T-56 rifles, 04 anti-personnel mines, 02 CDMA telephones, 05 military maps and 09 radio communication sets in this incident.
At Sittandi in Batticaloa, army has ambushed a second LTTE group killing two LTTE cadres. In the incident that occurred this afternoon troops also found 02 T-56 rifles along with the two dead bodies of the LTTE cadres.
The MCNS further said that during search operations conducted in daytime today (15 July) in the Meeyankallu area in the Thoppigala, army has found 07 T-56 rifles, 01 light machine gun (LMG) and 01 anti- tank mine.
Earlier, military sources in the East said that Army had successfully ambushed groups of LTTE terrorists at three locations in the Eastern Province during last 72 hours. With the latest incidents, Army had killed six LTTE terrorists who had been struggling to escape from the Thoppigala jungle.
The first ambush for the day took place at Raasarathanna in Batticaloa district early this morning (15 July). In the incident that took place around 4 a.m., the troops killed one LTTE cadre and captured 03 T-56 rifles, 01 sniper rifle, 03 hand grenades, 02 anti-personnel mines, and a few other military items including detonators, detonator codes, detonator caps and etc.
At Koggalagala, 11 Km west of Narakamulla, troops confronted a group of LTTE cadres trying to flee Thoppigala, killing one LTTE cadre. Troops have also captured 11 T-56 rifles, 04 anti-personnel mines, 02 CDMA telephones, 05 military maps and 09 radio communication sets in this incident.
At Sittandi in Batticaloa, army has ambushed a second LTTE group killing two LTTE cadres. In the incident that occurred this afternoon troops also found 02 T-56 rifles along with the two dead bodies of the LTTE cadres.
The MCNS further said that during search operations conducted in daytime today (15 July) in the Meeyankallu area in the Thoppigala, army has found 07 T-56 rifles, 01 light machine gun (LMG) and 01 anti- tank mine.
Earlier, military sources in the East said that Army had successfully ambushed groups of LTTE terrorists at three locations in the Eastern Province during last 72 hours. With the latest incidents, Army had killed six LTTE terrorists who had been struggling to escape from the Thoppigala jungle.
The first ambush for the day took place at Raasarathanna in Batticaloa district early this morning (15 July). In the incident that took place around 4 a.m., the troops killed one LTTE cadre and captured 03 T-56 rifles, 01 sniper rifle, 03 hand grenades, 02 anti-personnel mines, and a few other military items including detonators, detonator codes, detonator caps and etc.
Eastern theatre marks LTTE's tenth debacle in a row
The Tiger outfit accepted their 10th defeat in a row in the Eastern theatre and with the fall of Thoppigala, the last bastion in the East, before the security forces to mark the first anniversary of the Eastern battle to flush out the LTTE from the Eastern province.
LTTE Political Wing Leader S. P. Thamilselvan, this time accepted their defeat in the East in an interview with Reuters International News Agency on Thursday. This time he did not have any room to explain their defeat as a 'tactical withdrawal' as he used to explain their earlier defeats in the East. This time they did not withdraw, but fled from their jungle hide-outs as the security forces led by Commando troops took the advantage of the ground in their favour with the capture of three rocks tactically important to keep control over Thoppigala jungles. Therefore, S. P. Thamilselvan had to choose his words to explain their future strategies in the face of their defeat in the East, but again prove to the world that they were not willing to give up terrorism to achieve their goals.
He emphasised that the Tiger outfit continue terror attacks targeting economic nerve centres and other strategically important security installations to achieve their goals.
But, it was not an unusual thing for the LTTE to make such statements, since it was the usual pattern they followed during the past three decades.
LTTE Political Wing Leader S. P. Thamilselvan, this time accepted their defeat in the East in an interview with Reuters International News Agency on Thursday. This time he did not have any room to explain their defeat as a 'tactical withdrawal' as he used to explain their earlier defeats in the East. This time they did not withdraw, but fled from their jungle hide-outs as the security forces led by Commando troops took the advantage of the ground in their favour with the capture of three rocks tactically important to keep control over Thoppigala jungles. Therefore, S. P. Thamilselvan had to choose his words to explain their future strategies in the face of their defeat in the East, but again prove to the world that they were not willing to give up terrorism to achieve their goals.
He emphasised that the Tiger outfit continue terror attacks targeting economic nerve centres and other strategically important security installations to achieve their goals.
But, it was not an unusual thing for the LTTE to make such statements, since it was the usual pattern they followed during the past three decades.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
LTTE looses Baron's cap; Troops reach Thoppigala
Commandos and soldiers of the SL Army have reached the Baron's Cap (Thoppigala) few hours ago, said Defence sources in the East. With this victory, troops have captured the "nerve centre" of the LTTE terrorists' in their last stronghold in the Eastern province.Meanwhile, troops have also gained the full control over Narakamula, and Tharavikulama areas where, the LTTE leadership had its' Eastern headquarters and other fortifications.
The victorious soldiers are presently clearing enemy "pockets" scattered in the dense jungle and are pursuing the LTTE cadres who are on the run.
More details will follow....
LTTE skirmishes with Army - Jaffna
Troops of the Sri Lankan Army claim that at least 05 LTTE terrorists were killed or critically injured along the Forward Defences at Muhamalai, Jaffna yesterday (July 10), at 06.30a.m.
According to the Army officials, a group of terrorists attempting to infiltrate the FDLs drew retaliatory fire from the troops manning the defence lines.
Military sources said that, no casualties were caused to own troops.
According to the Army officials, a group of terrorists attempting to infiltrate the FDLs drew retaliatory fire from the troops manning the defence lines.
Military sources said that, no casualties were caused to own troops.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Another LTTE "Tsunami" fundraiser arrested in Australia
A 41 year old Sri Lankan Tamil has been charged with multiple terrorism charges over alleged links with the internationally banned LTTE, which has been named by many countries as a terrorist organization.
The suspect is identified as Rajeevan, a frontline sympathizer of the LTTE, based in Sydney. He was arrested this morning (July 10) as part of an ongoing investigation by Australian Federal Police (AFP).
It is reported that among the matters investigation about him was suspected fraud in the handling of funds raised among Australian citizens for Tsunami relief to Sri Lanka, which had been diverted for the LTTE's own purposes, to fund its terrorist activities in Sri Lanka.
He is due to appear at Sydney's Central Local Court and is expected to be extradited to Victoria at a later date. He has been charged with being a member of a terrorist organization, providing support or resources to a terrorist organization and making an asset available to a proscribed entity.
The charges carry maximum prison terms of 10, 25 and five years respectively, if convicted.
AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty said the joint terrorism team from Victoria Police and the AFP arrested Rajeevan. "He was charged in connection with two earlier arrests in May this year to do with raising money for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the (LTTE) terrorist group," Mr. Keelty has said on Southern Cross radio.
"The counter-terrorism team will be seeking his extradition to Melbourne."
The charges related to fundraising after the devastating 2004 Boxing Day tsunami which crippled communities throughout southern Asia. "This is to do with fundraising activities that occurred after the tsunami; as you might recall and that money was channeled into the LTTE in Sri Lanka," Mr. Keelty said.
The suspect is identified as Rajeevan, a frontline sympathizer of the LTTE, based in Sydney. He was arrested this morning (July 10) as part of an ongoing investigation by Australian Federal Police (AFP).
It is reported that among the matters investigation about him was suspected fraud in the handling of funds raised among Australian citizens for Tsunami relief to Sri Lanka, which had been diverted for the LTTE's own purposes, to fund its terrorist activities in Sri Lanka.
He is due to appear at Sydney's Central Local Court and is expected to be extradited to Victoria at a later date. He has been charged with being a member of a terrorist organization, providing support or resources to a terrorist organization and making an asset available to a proscribed entity.
The charges carry maximum prison terms of 10, 25 and five years respectively, if convicted.
AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty said the joint terrorism team from Victoria Police and the AFP arrested Rajeevan. "He was charged in connection with two earlier arrests in May this year to do with raising money for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the (LTTE) terrorist group," Mr. Keelty has said on Southern Cross radio.
"The counter-terrorism team will be seeking his extradition to Melbourne."
The charges related to fundraising after the devastating 2004 Boxing Day tsunami which crippled communities throughout southern Asia. "This is to do with fundraising activities that occurred after the tsunami; as you might recall and that money was channeled into the LTTE in Sri Lanka," Mr. Keelty said.
Two more LTTE camps fall in Thoppigala; LTTE heavy guns captured
Advancing troops of the SL Army captured two more LTTE camps located south west of Narakamula, in Batticaloa district yesterday (July 09), military sources said.
Troops also found two 120mm heavy mortar guns abandoned by fleeing LTTE terrorists. The guns had been damaged by the terrorists before abandoning them, the military added.
Meanwhile, military spokesperson Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said military personnel are now consolidating defences in the newly liberated areas south west of Narakamula. A detailed media release on the latest developments on the ongoing humanitarian mission in Thoppigala would be issued shortly.
Troops also found two 120mm heavy mortar guns abandoned by fleeing LTTE terrorists. The guns had been damaged by the terrorists before abandoning them, the military added.
Meanwhile, military spokesperson Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said military personnel are now consolidating defences in the newly liberated areas south west of Narakamula. A detailed media release on the latest developments on the ongoing humanitarian mission in Thoppigala would be issued shortly.
Forced child recruitment a looming crisis in Vanni
Amidst continuous allegations by the UNICEF on 1,591 outstanding cases of LTTE child recruitment up to end May 2007, civilians fleeing the non-liberated areas in Vanni are testifying about increased abductions and forced recruitment campaigns by the terror outfit.
The latest was recorded when five Tamil civilians including three children urged protection from the security forces against the LTTE treachery experienced in the non-liberated patches north of Mannar.
The Tamil family originally from the non-liberated Vidattaltivu area, included three children (two boys and a girl), between the ages of 09 to 17.
The latest was recorded when five Tamil civilians including three children urged protection from the security forces against the LTTE treachery experienced in the non-liberated patches north of Mannar.
The Tamil family originally from the non-liberated Vidattaltivu area, included three children (two boys and a girl), between the ages of 09 to 17.
Army artillery attack kill three terrorists and injure six others-Vavuniya
At least three LTTE terrorists were killed and six others were believed injured when troops of the SL Army retaliated artillery shells in defence towards a group of LTTE cadres attempting to lay claymore mines at the FDLs, at Villathikulama in Vavuniya yesterday (10, July).
According to the military officials in Vavuniya, the terrorists drew fire when they attempted to infiltrate the forwards defences. Bodies of the dead LTTE cadres were observed scattered beyond the FDLs, the officials added.
Meantime, SL Navy declared names of eleven LTTE terrorists killed intercepted through LTTE communication, of the recent seaward clash erupted off Pulmodai, on Saturday (08, July).
According to the military officials in Vavuniya, the terrorists drew fire when they attempted to infiltrate the forwards defences. Bodies of the dead LTTE cadres were observed scattered beyond the FDLs, the officials added.
Meantime, SL Navy declared names of eleven LTTE terrorists killed intercepted through LTTE communication, of the recent seaward clash erupted off Pulmodai, on Saturday (08, July).
Forced child recruitment a looming crisis in Vanni
Amidst continuous allegations by the UNICEF on 1,591 outstanding cases of LTTE child recruitment up to end May 2007, civilians fleeing the non-liberated areas in Vanni are testifying about increased abductions and forced recruitment campaigns by the terror outfit.
The latest was recorded when five Tamil civilians including three children urged protection from the security forces against the LTTE treachery experienced in the non-liberated patches north of Mannar.
The Tamil family originally from the non-liberated Vidattaltivu area, included three children (two boys and a girl), between the ages of 09 to 17.
The family had managed to reach the Pallimunai Police post, yesterday (09, July) at 09:00 a.m., braving the heavily mined patches and was immediately attended to by the security forces who refreshed them with food and drink, and gave them shelter until their relations were tracked and informed of their presence.
According to Mannar Police sources, the family has been continuously intimidated to give away their children to the LTTE. Visits were made by the terror representatives on a daily basis causing fear and tension among them. Later the children's education was hindered when as they were not sent to school, for fear of been abducted by the LTTE, the officials added.
Mannar Police sources said they were pleased to assist the increasing numbers of such families, fleeing the "self-proclaimed", "sole representatives of the Tamils", who have caused chaos and uncertainty in their lives.
The latest was recorded when five Tamil civilians including three children urged protection from the security forces against the LTTE treachery experienced in the non-liberated patches north of Mannar.
The Tamil family originally from the non-liberated Vidattaltivu area, included three children (two boys and a girl), between the ages of 09 to 17.
The family had managed to reach the Pallimunai Police post, yesterday (09, July) at 09:00 a.m., braving the heavily mined patches and was immediately attended to by the security forces who refreshed them with food and drink, and gave them shelter until their relations were tracked and informed of their presence.
According to Mannar Police sources, the family has been continuously intimidated to give away their children to the LTTE. Visits were made by the terror representatives on a daily basis causing fear and tension among them. Later the children's education was hindered when as they were not sent to school, for fear of been abducted by the LTTE, the officials added.
Mannar Police sources said they were pleased to assist the increasing numbers of such families, fleeing the "self-proclaimed", "sole representatives of the Tamils", who have caused chaos and uncertainty in their lives.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Two decades of 'suicide' terror: Untold suffering for Lanka
LTTE tactic inspires terrorists worldwide; Troops poised for victory in Thoppigala
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam marked the 20th anniversary of the first suicide mission carried out by 'captain' Miller targeting troops engaged in the 'Operation Liberation' or the famous Vadamarachchi operation in 1987 on a low key confining their celebrations to Kilinochchi.
The LTTE usually proudly celebrates this event as the entire world is haunted by suicide missions carried out by various organisations, most probably initiated and spread to the whole world by the Tigers through the wide media publicity for their Black Tiger squadrons. But the pertinent question that has to be raised today is whether the Tiger outfit has any fair reason or background to celebrate the event so proudly in the present context as all these Tiger cadres, initially innocent Tamils have sacrificed their lives for nothing.
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam marked the 20th anniversary of the first suicide mission carried out by 'captain' Miller targeting troops engaged in the 'Operation Liberation' or the famous Vadamarachchi operation in 1987 on a low key confining their celebrations to Kilinochchi.
The LTTE usually proudly celebrates this event as the entire world is haunted by suicide missions carried out by various organisations, most probably initiated and spread to the whole world by the Tigers through the wide media publicity for their Black Tiger squadrons. But the pertinent question that has to be raised today is whether the Tiger outfit has any fair reason or background to celebrate the event so proudly in the present context as all these Tiger cadres, initially innocent Tamils have sacrificed their lives for nothing.
We should respect the human beings irrespective of their religious and ethnic differences, but is there any justifiable reason to respect a man who kills himself causing the deaths of hundreds of people and depriving the Suicide attack on Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse world of their most beloved characters?
There are reasons to respect Hasalaka Gamini who sacrificed his life to avert a major disaster when an explosive laden vehicle reached the Elephant Pass military complex in 1991 and Corporal Yakandawala who sacrificed his life to save the valuable life of Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka.
There is something they could be happy about if they lived today, but is there anything remaining for even the family members of these Black Tigers to be happy about their sacrifices? There is nothing remaining for them to be happy about apart from the suffering they had to undergo at the hand of the LTTE leader Prabhakaran in the name of liberation. Can the LTTE itself be happy about the suicide mission carried out by Dhanu, in Sri Perumpudur in Madras in 1991 to assassinate Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi which LTTE theoretician Anton Balasingham admitted as a historical mistake done by the LTTE.
The LTTE still repents this 'historical mistake' and experience the consequences of losing their most powerful supporter in the cause of their non-ending struggle for the illusory Tamil homeland preying on thousands of Tamils for it.
After all, is there any reason for 'Raj' the suicide cadre who triggered off the suicide belt wrapped around his belly assassinating Tamil intellectual Dr. Neelan Thiruchelvam in Colombo, to be happy about his mission? They made the same type of attempt to take the life of former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar but had to change their strategy to use a sniper to carry out this mission. Suicide attack on Army Commander Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka More >>
Air Force Jets strike at Terror Targets- Mannar and Thoppigala
SL Air Force fighter jets carried out three air raids targeting LTTE positions at Thoppigala and an LTTE camp at Palampiddi in Mannar this morning (06). According to the Media Centre for National Security (MCNS), the air raids were conducted at 6:15 a.m. at Mannar and 6:20 a.m. at Thoppigala respectively. The pilots have confirmed that the targets had been achieved successfully.
Meanwhile, the troops who have commenced the last phase of the humanitarian mission to liberate Eastern province from the terror clutches moved further in to the LTTE dominated ground at Narakamulla yesterday (05). Defence sources said, that the air raids are being conducted to assist the ground advance by destroying remaining terror positions.
Meanwhile, the troops who have commenced the last phase of the humanitarian mission to liberate Eastern province from the terror clutches moved further in to the LTTE dominated ground at Narakamulla yesterday (05). Defence sources said, that the air raids are being conducted to assist the ground advance by destroying remaining terror positions.
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