June 06, Colombo: Tamil Tigers have exploded an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) targeting the Colombo-bound train from Batticaloa at Punani in Eastern Sri Lanka this morning, the military said.
The explosion believed to be caused by an explosive device placed on the rail track derailed the train off the track and injured four passengers.
The Media Center for national Security (MCNS) said that, three of the injured have been taken to the Polonnaruwa hospital and the other has been taken to Valachchenai hospital.
The latest attack comes as the Japanese peace envoy, Yasushi Akashi is preparing to meet with the Sri Lankan President and other government officials in Colombo in an attempt to restore the fading peace process and halt the spiraling violence in the country.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
LTTE's Australian subversion
With an estimated Tamil population of 30,000, Australia is one of the largest sources of funding for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). In confirmation, the Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary Palitha Kohona disclosed on May 1, 2007, that the LTTE internationally raises approximately USD 10 million to USD 30 million a month, of which almost 20 to 30 per cent comes from Australia.
However, acknowledging the fact that funds were being raised in his country to finance LTTE operations on May 2, 2007, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer stressed that the amounts raised were not huge: "Some of it comes from Australia, probably nothing like 30 per cent, but small amounts do come from Australia. I don't think there's any doubt about that. It's been very hard to collect evidence, though, about money in Australia and paid directly to the Tamil Tigers, which is, an offense.'' While many of the Tamils in Australia identify with the LTTE's cause, only some are known to be engaged in raising funds.
But Australia is emerging as a "central front of a distant war - a rich source of millions of dollars in funds and equipment for the Tamil Tiger terrorist group to help wage their separatist war in Sri Lanka," The Weekend Australian reported on May 5, 2007. Extracts of the report titled 'How tsunami cash bankrolled Tigers' stated: "Sources say LTTE had been raising modest amounts of money here since the 1980s but its operations were transformed by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami which gave the group its first chance to milk large amounts of cash from Australians."
Australia, in pursuance of UN Security Council Resolution No. 1373 on suppressing the financing of terrorism, on December 21, 2001, proscribed 25 terrorist organizations, including the LTTE. The purpose was to bring the LTTE under an asset-freezing programme and stem the flow of funds to the group from Australia. Under this programme, it is an offence to provide or even possess any asset belonging to a listed terrorist group or individual, and this offence is punishable by up to five years imprisonment.
The LTTE, for which procuring adequate finances lies at the heart of its terrorist campaign, reportedly raises funds in Australia through a range of front organizations working among the Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora. The rebel cover organisations have gradually secured a considerable degree of visibility in Australia, with networks of offices and cells to carry out propaganda, organise the procurement and movement of weapons and raise funds from the Diaspora.
There are at least 300 LTTE activists spread across Australia. Some of them use "intimidatory" or "emotional tactics" to attract funds from other Tamils and those "who refuse to give money are labeled traitors and subsequently isolated by the community." LTTE donors in Australia are "spread across the economic spectrum, ranging from grocery store owners to medical specialists, lawyers and media players."
However, acknowledging the fact that funds were being raised in his country to finance LTTE operations on May 2, 2007, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer stressed that the amounts raised were not huge: "Some of it comes from Australia, probably nothing like 30 per cent, but small amounts do come from Australia. I don't think there's any doubt about that. It's been very hard to collect evidence, though, about money in Australia and paid directly to the Tamil Tigers, which is, an offense.'' While many of the Tamils in Australia identify with the LTTE's cause, only some are known to be engaged in raising funds.
But Australia is emerging as a "central front of a distant war - a rich source of millions of dollars in funds and equipment for the Tamil Tiger terrorist group to help wage their separatist war in Sri Lanka," The Weekend Australian reported on May 5, 2007. Extracts of the report titled 'How tsunami cash bankrolled Tigers' stated: "Sources say LTTE had been raising modest amounts of money here since the 1980s but its operations were transformed by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami which gave the group its first chance to milk large amounts of cash from Australians."
Australia, in pursuance of UN Security Council Resolution No. 1373 on suppressing the financing of terrorism, on December 21, 2001, proscribed 25 terrorist organizations, including the LTTE. The purpose was to bring the LTTE under an asset-freezing programme and stem the flow of funds to the group from Australia. Under this programme, it is an offence to provide or even possess any asset belonging to a listed terrorist group or individual, and this offence is punishable by up to five years imprisonment.
The LTTE, for which procuring adequate finances lies at the heart of its terrorist campaign, reportedly raises funds in Australia through a range of front organizations working among the Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora. The rebel cover organisations have gradually secured a considerable degree of visibility in Australia, with networks of offices and cells to carry out propaganda, organise the procurement and movement of weapons and raise funds from the Diaspora.
There are at least 300 LTTE activists spread across Australia. Some of them use "intimidatory" or "emotional tactics" to attract funds from other Tamils and those "who refuse to give money are labeled traitors and subsequently isolated by the community." LTTE donors in Australia are "spread across the economic spectrum, ranging from grocery store owners to medical specialists, lawyers and media players."
LTTE urged to renounce terrorism and return to negotiating table - EP
The European Parliament while condemning terrorism by the LTTE as a cause of concern, and urged that the need for the LTTE to return to the negotiating table, in a communique‚ issued at a public hearing held at Brussels on Tuesday(05).
The Hearing was conducted in two parts, the first part dealing with the "Impact of Post-Tsunami Reconstruction in Sri Lanka and Indonesia" and the second part dealing with the "Human Rights Situation and Humanitarian Space in Sri Lanka".
The Sri Lanka Delegation was led by Ambassador Aruni Wijewardane, Sri Lanka Ambassador in Austria.
The full text of the media release is as follows.
Media Release
The Development Committee of the European Parliament conducted a Public Hearing in Brussels relating to Sri Lanka on 05th June, 2007.
The Hearing was conducted in two parts, the first part dealing with the "Impact of Post-Tsunami Reconstruction in Sri Lanka and Indonesia" and the second part dealing with the "Human Rights Situation and Humanitarian Space in Sri Lanka". A large number of NGOs, Media representatives and Members of the European Parliament (MEP) attended the Public Session.
The Sri Lanka Delegation was led by Ambassador Aruni Wijewardane, Sri Lanka Ambassador in Austria and assisted by Mr. Shavindra Fernando, Deputy Solicitor General, Dr. Jayantha Samarasinghe of Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Mr. Gamini Hettiarachchi as well as the Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels.
In the Session relating to Post-Tsunami reconstruction, Dr. Jayantha Samarasinghe outlined the progress made by the Government in the several stages of Post Tsunami relief, recovery and reconstruction. He also outlined the areas where further international assistance is required such as housing and livelihood restoration. Mr. Gamini Hettiarachchi, Deputy Director General of Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA) gave a description of the Post -Tsunami Disaster Management framework in Sri Lanka, including the Disaster Management Act, the National Disaster Management Council and the setting up of the Disaster Management Centre.
In concluding this Session MEP Niranjan Deva Aditya expressed satisfaction over the progress Sri Lanka has made in reconstruction of affected sectors.
The Hearing was conducted in two parts, the first part dealing with the "Impact of Post-Tsunami Reconstruction in Sri Lanka and Indonesia" and the second part dealing with the "Human Rights Situation and Humanitarian Space in Sri Lanka".
The Sri Lanka Delegation was led by Ambassador Aruni Wijewardane, Sri Lanka Ambassador in Austria.
The full text of the media release is as follows.
Media Release
The Development Committee of the European Parliament conducted a Public Hearing in Brussels relating to Sri Lanka on 05th June, 2007.
The Hearing was conducted in two parts, the first part dealing with the "Impact of Post-Tsunami Reconstruction in Sri Lanka and Indonesia" and the second part dealing with the "Human Rights Situation and Humanitarian Space in Sri Lanka". A large number of NGOs, Media representatives and Members of the European Parliament (MEP) attended the Public Session.
The Sri Lanka Delegation was led by Ambassador Aruni Wijewardane, Sri Lanka Ambassador in Austria and assisted by Mr. Shavindra Fernando, Deputy Solicitor General, Dr. Jayantha Samarasinghe of Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Mr. Gamini Hettiarachchi as well as the Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels.
In the Session relating to Post-Tsunami reconstruction, Dr. Jayantha Samarasinghe outlined the progress made by the Government in the several stages of Post Tsunami relief, recovery and reconstruction. He also outlined the areas where further international assistance is required such as housing and livelihood restoration. Mr. Gamini Hettiarachchi, Deputy Director General of Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA) gave a description of the Post -Tsunami Disaster Management framework in Sri Lanka, including the Disaster Management Act, the National Disaster Management Council and the setting up of the Disaster Management Centre.
In concluding this Session MEP Niranjan Deva Aditya expressed satisfaction over the progress Sri Lanka has made in reconstruction of affected sectors.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Investors pay €100m for top site in London
SAVVY Irish investors continue to snap up investment opportunities in the booming London property market.
The latest involves a €100m deal to buy a property on London's Victoria Street.
Oregan Financial, a syndicate of Irish-based property investors put together by broker Joe O'Regan, and advised by CB Richard Ellis, has agreed to buy Nos 10-18 Victoria Street, London.
The property is fully let to the UK Department of Trade and Industry for a further 19 years without breaks. The deal was agreed at £70m (€100m) purchase price and represents a net initial yield of 4.2pc.
The building has recently undergone substantial refurbishment by the tenant, and is located in a prime office location in Victoria in London's West End.
The nine-storey property is near Westminster and comprises an office building of 7,348 sq m (79,100 sq ft) with 13 car parking spaces.
Victoria is an important commercial centre within Central London property, accounting for about a quarter of the total office stock of the West End.
The area has excellent transport links and is close to Victoria Station.
The offices are let on a rent equating to £41 per sq ft. Prime Grade A top rents in the West End are currently over £100 per sq ft, with prime rents in Victoria at about £65 per sq ft.
Andrew Gunne of international property consultants CB Richard Ellis said Central London is the most landlord friendly and liquid property market in Europe, with vacancy rates of under 3pc.
"The low level of availability, together with a relatively small development pipeline coming through in the short-term, means rents are being driven significantly higher," he said.
The latest involves a €100m deal to buy a property on London's Victoria Street.
Oregan Financial, a syndicate of Irish-based property investors put together by broker Joe O'Regan, and advised by CB Richard Ellis, has agreed to buy Nos 10-18 Victoria Street, London.
The property is fully let to the UK Department of Trade and Industry for a further 19 years without breaks. The deal was agreed at £70m (€100m) purchase price and represents a net initial yield of 4.2pc.
The building has recently undergone substantial refurbishment by the tenant, and is located in a prime office location in Victoria in London's West End.
The nine-storey property is near Westminster and comprises an office building of 7,348 sq m (79,100 sq ft) with 13 car parking spaces.
Victoria is an important commercial centre within Central London property, accounting for about a quarter of the total office stock of the West End.
The area has excellent transport links and is close to Victoria Station.
The offices are let on a rent equating to £41 per sq ft. Prime Grade A top rents in the West End are currently over £100 per sq ft, with prime rents in Victoria at about £65 per sq ft.
Andrew Gunne of international property consultants CB Richard Ellis said Central London is the most landlord friendly and liquid property market in Europe, with vacancy rates of under 3pc.
"The low level of availability, together with a relatively small development pipeline coming through in the short-term, means rents are being driven significantly higher," he said.
Global support to combat LTTE terror
SINGAPORE: Countries attending the Asian Security Summit here have assured increased assistance to Sri Lanka for combating LTTE terrorism, including intelligence sharing.
The Forum attended by defence ministers and military commanders, appreciated the challenge faced by Sri Lanka in countering LTTE terrorism and agreed that they would further strengthen cooperation between their Governments and the Sri Lanka Government, the Foreign Ministry said.
In a meeting with US Defence Secretary Robert Gates, Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama briefed him on the current level of security threat posed by the LTTE and the manner in which the Sri Lankan Government proposed to meet this threat. Besides enhancing maritime counter measures, Sri Lanka was also seeking to more effectively counter the recent threat posed due to LTTE air capability, he elaborated.
Following meetings with Indian Defence Minister A. K. Anthony and British Minister for Armed Forces Adam Ingram on Saturday morning, Minister Rohitha Bogollagama and the Sri Lanka delegation held a series of bilateral meetings over the weekend on the sidelines of the Security Summit.
Associated with the Minister were Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshall Donald Perera.
In separate meetings with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Cambodia Gen. Tea Banh, Indonesian Defence Minister Prof. Gen. Juwono Sudarsano, Secretary of Defence of Thailand Gen. Winai Pattiyakul, Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army Lt. Gen. Nguyen Duc Soat, and Myanmar's Maung Myint, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the illicit use of the territories of these countries by the LTTE, particularly for purposes of arms smuggling and money laundering, was discussed in detail.
These leaders assured the Foreign Minister that they would be more vigilant and not permit their territories to be used in any manner by the LTTE. In separate meetings with Deputy Chief of General Staff of the People's Liberation Army of China Lt. Gen. Zhen Quinsheng, and Chief of Staff of Pakistan Gen. Ul Haq, Bogollagama briefed them on current security developments in Sri Lanka.
They agreed to enhance cooperation and to share intelligence with a view to defeating terrorism.
In separate meetings with the Head of the Delegation of France, Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Francis Delon, and the Permanent Secretary, British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Sir Peter Ricketts, Foreign Secretary Dr. Kohona discussed Sri Lanka's concerns regarding LTTE fund raising, human smuggling and propaganda operations in those countries, as well as in the broader European context.
The Foreign Secretary appreciated the action taken in France and the UK in recent months to effectively counter LTTE fund raising that takes place through intimidation and extortion. He also explained the political proposals being developed to end the present conflict through the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) process.
Dr. Kohona also met Foreign Secretary of Singapore Peter Ho for a follow up discussion, pursuant to earlier meetings with Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary had with the Singaporean Foreign Minister George Yeo and Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean.
They emphasised the need for particularly greater cooperation between the intelligence services of both countries.
Bogollagama and the delegation also held separate meetings with the former US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage and former Minister of State in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office and presently Member of Parliament shadow defence secretary Liam Fox.
The Minister appreciated the initiatives taken by Armitage and Fox in seeking to help end the conflict in Sri Lanka.
The delegation briefed them both on current developments in combating LTTE terrorism and in seeking to evolve a lasting political settlement to the present conflict.
The Forum attended by defence ministers and military commanders, appreciated the challenge faced by Sri Lanka in countering LTTE terrorism and agreed that they would further strengthen cooperation between their Governments and the Sri Lanka Government, the Foreign Ministry said.
In a meeting with US Defence Secretary Robert Gates, Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama briefed him on the current level of security threat posed by the LTTE and the manner in which the Sri Lankan Government proposed to meet this threat. Besides enhancing maritime counter measures, Sri Lanka was also seeking to more effectively counter the recent threat posed due to LTTE air capability, he elaborated.
Following meetings with Indian Defence Minister A. K. Anthony and British Minister for Armed Forces Adam Ingram on Saturday morning, Minister Rohitha Bogollagama and the Sri Lanka delegation held a series of bilateral meetings over the weekend on the sidelines of the Security Summit.
Associated with the Minister were Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshall Donald Perera.
In separate meetings with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Cambodia Gen. Tea Banh, Indonesian Defence Minister Prof. Gen. Juwono Sudarsano, Secretary of Defence of Thailand Gen. Winai Pattiyakul, Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army Lt. Gen. Nguyen Duc Soat, and Myanmar's Maung Myint, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the illicit use of the territories of these countries by the LTTE, particularly for purposes of arms smuggling and money laundering, was discussed in detail.
These leaders assured the Foreign Minister that they would be more vigilant and not permit their territories to be used in any manner by the LTTE. In separate meetings with Deputy Chief of General Staff of the People's Liberation Army of China Lt. Gen. Zhen Quinsheng, and Chief of Staff of Pakistan Gen. Ul Haq, Bogollagama briefed them on current security developments in Sri Lanka.
They agreed to enhance cooperation and to share intelligence with a view to defeating terrorism.
In separate meetings with the Head of the Delegation of France, Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Francis Delon, and the Permanent Secretary, British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Sir Peter Ricketts, Foreign Secretary Dr. Kohona discussed Sri Lanka's concerns regarding LTTE fund raising, human smuggling and propaganda operations in those countries, as well as in the broader European context.
The Foreign Secretary appreciated the action taken in France and the UK in recent months to effectively counter LTTE fund raising that takes place through intimidation and extortion. He also explained the political proposals being developed to end the present conflict through the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) process.
Dr. Kohona also met Foreign Secretary of Singapore Peter Ho for a follow up discussion, pursuant to earlier meetings with Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary had with the Singaporean Foreign Minister George Yeo and Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean.
They emphasised the need for particularly greater cooperation between the intelligence services of both countries.
Bogollagama and the delegation also held separate meetings with the former US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage and former Minister of State in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office and presently Member of Parliament shadow defence secretary Liam Fox.
The Minister appreciated the initiatives taken by Armitage and Fox in seeking to help end the conflict in Sri Lanka.
The delegation briefed them both on current developments in combating LTTE terrorism and in seeking to evolve a lasting political settlement to the present conflict.
Air Force warplanes target LTTE leaders' gathering- Mankulam
SL air force fighter jets this morning (05th) bombed a gathering of LTTE leaders In Mankulam area, defence sources said. The air raid launched at 9.20a.m has targeted an LTTE military location in the Mankulam area. The attack has been carried out on extensive surveillance and real time ground information, the sources further added.
Fierce battle between the security forces and the LTTE terrorists erupted in Mullikulam, Kalmadu and Vilathikulam areas in Vavuniya as the LTTE terrorists had launched a major offensive at the security forces FDL in the West of Omanthai on Saturday (2nd) Night. The security forces, after crushing the terror offensive successfully, are now being engaged hunting down the disbanded terror groups in the area, military sources said.
Meanwhile, civilian sources from Kilinochchi have revealed that LTTE terrorists are forcibly collecting blood from the civilians for their casualties. Military sources said that at least 52 terrorists were killed and a large number of others suffered injuries in the attack. According to Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) 13 army soldiers were killed and 20 others were injured during the battle.
Fierce battle between the security forces and the LTTE terrorists erupted in Mullikulam, Kalmadu and Vilathikulam areas in Vavuniya as the LTTE terrorists had launched a major offensive at the security forces FDL in the West of Omanthai on Saturday (2nd) Night. The security forces, after crushing the terror offensive successfully, are now being engaged hunting down the disbanded terror groups in the area, military sources said.
Meanwhile, civilian sources from Kilinochchi have revealed that LTTE terrorists are forcibly collecting blood from the civilians for their casualties. Military sources said that at least 52 terrorists were killed and a large number of others suffered injuries in the attack. According to Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) 13 army soldiers were killed and 20 others were injured during the battle.
Air Force Fighter Jets destroy LTTE mortar positions - Vavuniya
Air force fighter jets pounded on LTTE mortar positions and gathering places in Vavuniya this morning, Monday the 04th of June.
According to the defence sources the air strike was launched at 9.15 a.m and two LTTE mortar positions located in Palampiddi were completely destroyed due to the bombardment.
According to the defence sources the air strike was launched at 9.15 a.m and two LTTE mortar positions located in Palampiddi were completely destroyed due to the bombardment.
LTTE mortar attack hits FDL - Welioya
The LTTE terrorists launched a mortar attack targeting the security forces personnel on duty at the Forward Defence line (FDL) at Kokkuthuduwai in Welioya last evening, Monday the 04th of June.
Defence sources said that LTTE terrorists attacked with 120mm mortar rounds at 6.45 p.m and security forces retaliated with mortar and artillery effectively causing damages to the LTTE terrorists.
It is further reported that no casualties reported for the security forces.
Defence sources said that LTTE terrorists attacked with 120mm mortar rounds at 6.45 p.m and security forces retaliated with mortar and artillery effectively causing damages to the LTTE terrorists.
It is further reported that no casualties reported for the security forces.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Sri Lanka President calls for a special Cabinet meeting on Monday
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has called a special Cabinet meeting to discuss several burning issues in the country tomorrow (04) at the Temple Trees, sources said.
Highly placed government sources confirmed that the meeting, which is scheduled to be held at 6 pm on Monday is to discuss, the current security situation in the country as well as the Cost of Living issues.
Meanwhile, a special meeting between government parliamentarians also would be held before the Cabinet meeting on Monday presided over by President Rajapaksa.
Highly placed government sources confirmed that the meeting, which is scheduled to be held at 6 pm on Monday is to discuss, the current security situation in the country as well as the Cost of Living issues.
Meanwhile, a special meeting between government parliamentarians also would be held before the Cabinet meeting on Monday presided over by President Rajapaksa.
India to help Sri Lanka in strengthening regional security
India assured to help Sri Lanka, as a strategic measure with the growing concerns of LTTE air capability as a regional security threat. The alarm was set when the SL Foreign Minister, Rohitha Bogolagama emphasized on the terrorist issue specially the LTTE fund raising activities, illicit immigration and arms smuggling, addressing the 6th Annual Asian Security Summit - the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
The "rise of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) air power in Sri Lanka is of concern to India also" emphasised the, Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony in Singapore on Sunday (03) that India "will give Sri Lanka reasonable support for that."
Commenting on his talks with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Saturday(02), Mr. Antony said he had conveyed India's willingness to extend "whatever possible help." He said the message to Sri Lanka was that "we are with you" on the issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the island-state.
At the same time, India expressed its preference for a "political solution" in Sri Lanka.
Earlier, the Indian Defence Minister AK Anthony on 02nd June, assured Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, that the Indian Government was agreeable to conduct coordinated patrols of the maritime boundary between India and Sri Lanka in the Palk Straits.
The "rise of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) air power in Sri Lanka is of concern to India also" emphasised the, Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony in Singapore on Sunday (03) that India "will give Sri Lanka reasonable support for that."
Commenting on his talks with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Saturday(02), Mr. Antony said he had conveyed India's willingness to extend "whatever possible help." He said the message to Sri Lanka was that "we are with you" on the issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the island-state.
At the same time, India expressed its preference for a "political solution" in Sri Lanka.
Earlier, the Indian Defence Minister AK Anthony on 02nd June, assured Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, that the Indian Government was agreeable to conduct coordinated patrols of the maritime boundary between India and Sri Lanka in the Palk Straits.
Foreign Minister urges for tighten regional security to curb terrorism
Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Sunday (3 June 2007) appealed to Defense Ministers and Military Commanders attending the Annual IISS Asian Security Summit - The Shangri-La Dialogue, to ensure that their governments remain focused on the complexities the Government of Sri Lanka faces in grappling with terrorism of the LTTE and not to permit the LTTE to use their territories or waters to continue to terrorize the people of Sri Lanka.
Minister Bogollagama made these observation when he addressed the 4th plenary session of the Shangri-La Dialogue, on the theme "Securing Regional Waters: How Much Progress?".
Leading the Sri Lanka delegation which was participating for the first time in this influential defense forum which is being held for the 6th time, the Minister underscored the threat posed to Sri Lanka, countries in the region and maritime users of the Indian Ocean by the attacks of the LTTE. Referring to the arms smuggling activities of the LTTE carried out using a number of LTTE ships flying under different flags, the Minister asked, ``How are they able to bring these to Sri Lanka ? They pass through several ports. There are loading ports, discharging ports and transiting ports. They sometimes come in containers." He said "This chain has to be arrested, and towards this end Sri Lanka needed international and bilateral cooperation from other countries which could destroy the worldwide activities of the LTTE''. The Minister said the LTTE's supply chain and funding must be severed to end the conflict in Sri Lanka.
Minister Bogollagama made these observation when he addressed the 4th plenary session of the Shangri-La Dialogue, on the theme "Securing Regional Waters: How Much Progress?".
Leading the Sri Lanka delegation which was participating for the first time in this influential defense forum which is being held for the 6th time, the Minister underscored the threat posed to Sri Lanka, countries in the region and maritime users of the Indian Ocean by the attacks of the LTTE. Referring to the arms smuggling activities of the LTTE carried out using a number of LTTE ships flying under different flags, the Minister asked, ``How are they able to bring these to Sri Lanka ? They pass through several ports. There are loading ports, discharging ports and transiting ports. They sometimes come in containers." He said "This chain has to be arrested, and towards this end Sri Lanka needed international and bilateral cooperation from other countries which could destroy the worldwide activities of the LTTE''. The Minister said the LTTE's supply chain and funding must be severed to end the conflict in Sri Lanka.
'LTTE as an International Threat'
In the recent past, there have been many instances in which cadres of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) or their front organizations have been arrested or sentenced to prison for a variety of subversive activity across the world. Some of the major incidents involving the LTTE outside Sri Lanka include:
2007
May 17:
Maldives coast guard opened fire on and sank a small vessel carrying suspected LTTE cadres after a 12-hour standoff at sea in southern territorial waters of Maldives. According to reports, four of the nine-member crew were killed, four others were arrested and one surrendered. Reports said that the vessel, which started off as a deep sea fishing trawler, was hijacked by the LTTE to do some gun-running for it. The boat was carrying guns and mortar bombs.
In a Quebec Court testimony that concluded on May 17, Kathiravelupillai Sithamparanathan, President of the World Tamil Movement's Montreal office, an organization that is suspected of funding the LTTE, has testified that he considers the LTTE as freedom fighters and he supports their activities that would benefit the people. But he denied that his organization has sent money to the outfit. He, however, acknowledged attending a 2004 workshop in Sri Lanka organized by the outfit. Asked about his view of LTTE chief Prabhakaran, he called him a freedom fighter who is organizing a struggle to win the rights of the people in Sri Lanka. Asked whether the World Tamil Movement supports the LTTE, he replied: "Actions that would benefit people, the right actions, yes."
May 16: A London Court was told that Senthuraj Thavapalasingham alias "Psycho" of Romford is the enforcer leading a gang of LTTE extortionists called "East Side Boys". Newham Council and Metropolitan Police told Stratford Magistrates Court that this gang has been working in Newham for two years. Chief Inspector Derrick Griffiths said, "To my knowledge there are around five Tamil gangs operating in London. This is a gang of about 30 young men aged between 15 and 32 who are paid by an organization called the LTTE. They were paid to extort money from local businessmen and residents. Their victims were paying anywhere between Pounds 5,000 and 25,000 a year. In one case a businessman was paying 25,000 a year for four years."
May 10: Thirunavukarasu Varatharasa, a Sri Lankan citizen, pleaded guilty in a US court to conspiracy to provide material support to the LTTE and attempted export of arms and ammunition. According to the plea agreement, from April to September 29, 2006, Varatharasa conspired with Haji Subandi, Haniffa Osman and Erick Wotulo to export state-of-the-art firearms, machine guns and ammunition, surface to air missiles, night vision goggles and other military weapons to the LTTE.
2007
May 17:
Maldives coast guard opened fire on and sank a small vessel carrying suspected LTTE cadres after a 12-hour standoff at sea in southern territorial waters of Maldives. According to reports, four of the nine-member crew were killed, four others were arrested and one surrendered. Reports said that the vessel, which started off as a deep sea fishing trawler, was hijacked by the LTTE to do some gun-running for it. The boat was carrying guns and mortar bombs.
In a Quebec Court testimony that concluded on May 17, Kathiravelupillai Sithamparanathan, President of the World Tamil Movement's Montreal office, an organization that is suspected of funding the LTTE, has testified that he considers the LTTE as freedom fighters and he supports their activities that would benefit the people. But he denied that his organization has sent money to the outfit. He, however, acknowledged attending a 2004 workshop in Sri Lanka organized by the outfit. Asked about his view of LTTE chief Prabhakaran, he called him a freedom fighter who is organizing a struggle to win the rights of the people in Sri Lanka. Asked whether the World Tamil Movement supports the LTTE, he replied: "Actions that would benefit people, the right actions, yes."
May 16: A London Court was told that Senthuraj Thavapalasingham alias "Psycho" of Romford is the enforcer leading a gang of LTTE extortionists called "East Side Boys". Newham Council and Metropolitan Police told Stratford Magistrates Court that this gang has been working in Newham for two years. Chief Inspector Derrick Griffiths said, "To my knowledge there are around five Tamil gangs operating in London. This is a gang of about 30 young men aged between 15 and 32 who are paid by an organization called the LTTE. They were paid to extort money from local businessmen and residents. Their victims were paying anywhere between Pounds 5,000 and 25,000 a year. In one case a businessman was paying 25,000 a year for four years."
May 10: Thirunavukarasu Varatharasa, a Sri Lankan citizen, pleaded guilty in a US court to conspiracy to provide material support to the LTTE and attempted export of arms and ammunition. According to the plea agreement, from April to September 29, 2006, Varatharasa conspired with Haji Subandi, Haniffa Osman and Erick Wotulo to export state-of-the-art firearms, machine guns and ammunition, surface to air missiles, night vision goggles and other military weapons to the LTTE.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
'Australia to list LTTE as a terrorist organization'
Australia is preparing to list the LTTE as a terrorist organization. Such a move would put the country in line with other Western countries including the USA, Britain Canada and the European Union countries that have banned the group, The Australian reported, in a news portal published on 01st June, 2007.
According to 'The Australian' news portal, "the Tamil Tigers are soon to be listed as a terrorist organisation in Australia".
Although the federal Government says it has made no formal decision to proscribe the Sri Lankan separatist group, also known as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, preparations for the move are believed to be under way in Canberra.
The move would rank it alongside 19 other proscribed groups, including al-Qa'ida, Jemmah Islamiah and Lashkar-e-Toiba. It would bring Australia into line with other Western countries that have banned the LTTE, including the US, Britain, Canada and the 27 countries of the European Union.
However, any decision to proscribe the LTTE in Australia will spark an angry backlash from many of the country's 30,000 Tamils.
Although not all Australian Tamils support the violent campaign waged by the LTTE in Sri Lanka, there is widespread support for its aims of an independent homeland for Tamils in Sri Lanka.
Australian overseas aid groups also fear that any move to proscribe it could cause them to pull out of Sri Lanka for fear of breaching the law in areas controlled by the Tigers.
"We would strongly urge the Government not to go down that path (of proscribing LTTE) because it would inevitably be used as a propaganda tool by the Sri Lankan Government," said Australian Council for International Development executive director Paul O'Callaghan.
Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has expressed alarm at the recent escalation of fighting between the Sri Lankan armed forces and the LTTE in a conflict which has killed more than 70,000 since the early 1980s.
The Australian Federal Police has recently stepped up its investigations into illicit fundraising by LTTE supporters in Australia.
Earlier this month, two Australians of Sri Lankan Tamil origin were charged in a Melbourne court with diverting tsunami relief funds to a terrorist organisation. There is widespread speculation in the Tamil community that other arrests will follow.
Sri Lanka has warned Australia that Tamil Tiger activists are using fraudulent credit-cards overseas to raise funds. In a written warning to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Sri Lankan High Commission in Canberra said Australians could be ripped off by consumer scams perpetrated by the LTTE.
In a recent submission to a parliamentary inquiry into terror laws, the Australian-Tamil Rights Advocacy Council argued strongly against listing the LTTE as a terrorist group.
"The objective of advancing Tamils' right to self-determination is shared by a large number of Australians," the submission says.
"(If LTTE is listed) virtually any support in relation to these objectives leaves Australians open to prosecution. Thus the proscription of the LTTE will have a potentially devastating and disproportionately negative impact on Australians of Tamil origin."
Courtesy: - The Australian
According to 'The Australian' news portal, "the Tamil Tigers are soon to be listed as a terrorist organisation in Australia".
Although the federal Government says it has made no formal decision to proscribe the Sri Lankan separatist group, also known as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, preparations for the move are believed to be under way in Canberra.
The move would rank it alongside 19 other proscribed groups, including al-Qa'ida, Jemmah Islamiah and Lashkar-e-Toiba. It would bring Australia into line with other Western countries that have banned the LTTE, including the US, Britain, Canada and the 27 countries of the European Union.
However, any decision to proscribe the LTTE in Australia will spark an angry backlash from many of the country's 30,000 Tamils.
Although not all Australian Tamils support the violent campaign waged by the LTTE in Sri Lanka, there is widespread support for its aims of an independent homeland for Tamils in Sri Lanka.
Australian overseas aid groups also fear that any move to proscribe it could cause them to pull out of Sri Lanka for fear of breaching the law in areas controlled by the Tigers.
"We would strongly urge the Government not to go down that path (of proscribing LTTE) because it would inevitably be used as a propaganda tool by the Sri Lankan Government," said Australian Council for International Development executive director Paul O'Callaghan.
Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has expressed alarm at the recent escalation of fighting between the Sri Lankan armed forces and the LTTE in a conflict which has killed more than 70,000 since the early 1980s.
The Australian Federal Police has recently stepped up its investigations into illicit fundraising by LTTE supporters in Australia.
Earlier this month, two Australians of Sri Lankan Tamil origin were charged in a Melbourne court with diverting tsunami relief funds to a terrorist organisation. There is widespread speculation in the Tamil community that other arrests will follow.
Sri Lanka has warned Australia that Tamil Tiger activists are using fraudulent credit-cards overseas to raise funds. In a written warning to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Sri Lankan High Commission in Canberra said Australians could be ripped off by consumer scams perpetrated by the LTTE.
In a recent submission to a parliamentary inquiry into terror laws, the Australian-Tamil Rights Advocacy Council argued strongly against listing the LTTE as a terrorist group.
"The objective of advancing Tamils' right to self-determination is shared by a large number of Australians," the submission says.
"(If LTTE is listed) virtually any support in relation to these objectives leaves Australians open to prosecution. Thus the proscription of the LTTE will have a potentially devastating and disproportionately negative impact on Australians of Tamil origin."
Courtesy: - The Australian
'Tough position to be taken against terrorism and the LTTE'-U.S Ambassador
The Ambassador for the United States of America Robert O.Blake speaks to C.A.Chandraprema about the LTTE, the nature of the Sri Lankan conflict, the confidence shown by expatriate Tamils in Sri Lanka's long term prospects and the possibility of a political settlement in Sri Lanka.
The full text of the interview published in 'The Island' a popular Sri Lankan news portal is as follows.
Q. How would you read the situation in Sri Lanka at the present moment?
A. We are concerned about the situation, but we also think there is hope. We are concerned because the ceasefire has broken down and there has been a lot of fighting in the past year and there have been severe humanitarian consequences and human rights problems for the people of Sri Lanka. But we also think there is hope for the people of Sri Lanka because there is a process already under way in the All party Representatives Committee, that can lead to a political solution to the conflict.
Q. How would you characterize the Sri Lankan problem - is it case of a popularly elected government fighting terrorism?
A. Certainly that is a part of it, but part of the problem is that terrorism exists because of the failure of successive governments to address the grievances that have given rise to terrorism in the first place. That is why we advocate a political solution to the problem and not a military solution.
The full text of the interview published in 'The Island' a popular Sri Lankan news portal is as follows.
Q. How would you read the situation in Sri Lanka at the present moment?
A. We are concerned about the situation, but we also think there is hope. We are concerned because the ceasefire has broken down and there has been a lot of fighting in the past year and there have been severe humanitarian consequences and human rights problems for the people of Sri Lanka. But we also think there is hope for the people of Sri Lanka because there is a process already under way in the All party Representatives Committee, that can lead to a political solution to the conflict.
Q. How would you characterize the Sri Lankan problem - is it case of a popularly elected government fighting terrorism?
A. Certainly that is a part of it, but part of the problem is that terrorism exists because of the failure of successive governments to address the grievances that have given rise to terrorism in the first place. That is why we advocate a political solution to the problem and not a military solution.
Over thousand displaced due to LTTE mortar attacks - Welioya
A total of 1,118 individuals belonging to 310 families of the Athawetunaweva village in the Welioya, are now settled in a school in the adjacent Parakramapura town, being displaced following the LTTE mortar attacks on 31st May,2007.
The civilians fled the border village which was populated by ethnic Sinhalese in fear for life as the terrorists continued firing mortars indiscriminately. A SL Army soldier was killed and five others including two civilian suffered injuries.
The President has ordered urgent relief to the villagers, with additional food provisions and medicine for the displaced. According to divisional authorities majority of the displaced are women and children.
The civilians fled the border village which was populated by ethnic Sinhalese in fear for life as the terrorists continued firing mortars indiscriminately. A SL Army soldier was killed and five others including two civilian suffered injuries.
The President has ordered urgent relief to the villagers, with additional food provisions and medicine for the displaced. According to divisional authorities majority of the displaced are women and children.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Foreign Ministry clarifies arrests of Miss Parmeshwari and Mr. Basnayke
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in two press releases today (31) clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of two employees of Standard Newspapers Limited; Miss Munisamy Parameshwari and Mr Dushyantha Basnayake.
The Ministry said the clarifications have to be made as the two arrests were largely misinterpreted in both international and local forums as government's attempts to curtail media freedom.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Miss Parameshwari, who was a journalist attached to former local newspaper "Mavubima" the Ministry said that the arrest was made Based on intelligence received by the Special Task Force of the Sri Lanka Police.
"Miss Parameshwari was arrested on 23rd November 2006, in respect of her alleged involvement in abetting a LTTE female suicide cadre named Thambirasa Susanthi, by providing her with accommodation in Colombo. Her arrest and subsequent detention was in accordance with provisions of the Emergency Regulations", the press release said.
Commenting on Miss Parameshwari's acquittal, the press release elucidated:
"Following the completion of the investigation, the Attorney General reviewed the available material for the purpose of instituting criminal proceedings. Though there existed a volume of incriminatory material against Parameshwari, the availability of material admissible against the suspect in a court of law, was insufficient and hence the Attorney General advised the police to discharge the suspect. Accordingly, the suspect was discharged by the Magistrate on 22nd March 2007"
The Ministry said the clarifications have to be made as the two arrests were largely misinterpreted in both international and local forums as government's attempts to curtail media freedom.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Miss Parameshwari, who was a journalist attached to former local newspaper "Mavubima" the Ministry said that the arrest was made Based on intelligence received by the Special Task Force of the Sri Lanka Police.
"Miss Parameshwari was arrested on 23rd November 2006, in respect of her alleged involvement in abetting a LTTE female suicide cadre named Thambirasa Susanthi, by providing her with accommodation in Colombo. Her arrest and subsequent detention was in accordance with provisions of the Emergency Regulations", the press release said.
Commenting on Miss Parameshwari's acquittal, the press release elucidated:
"Following the completion of the investigation, the Attorney General reviewed the available material for the purpose of instituting criminal proceedings. Though there existed a volume of incriminatory material against Parameshwari, the availability of material admissible against the suspect in a court of law, was insufficient and hence the Attorney General advised the police to discharge the suspect. Accordingly, the suspect was discharged by the Magistrate on 22nd March 2007"
Two security forces personnel killed in LTTE attack - Vavuniya
Two security forces personnel, an army personal and a home guard, were attacked by the LTTE terrorists in the Vavuniya area this morning, Friday the 01st of June.
According to the defence sources the incident took place between Ataweragolla and Asikulam at 8:45 a.m. whilst they were on their way to an official matter on a motorbike.
The two victims who suffered severe injuries succumbed to their injuries while they were being rushed to the hospital, sources further said.
According to the defence sources the incident took place between Ataweragolla and Asikulam at 8:45 a.m. whilst they were on their way to an official matter on a motorbike.
The two victims who suffered severe injuries succumbed to their injuries while they were being rushed to the hospital, sources further said.
Oil prices recover slightly after slide
World oil prices rebounded slightly on Wednesday as supply concerns quickly resurfaced, dealers said, and after heavy falls on Tuesday, when light sweet crude lost more than two dollars in New York.
Brent North Sea crude for July delivery rose 28 cents to 68.41 dollars a barrel in electronic trading. It had shed 1.58 dollars on Tuesday.
New York's main oil futures contract, light sweet crude for delivery in July, climbed 54 cents to 63.69 dollars a barrel in electronic deals before the official open of the US market. On Tuesday the contract dived 2.05 dollars.
“Crude futures were higher (Wednesday) ... recovering from losses in the previous session and following another cut in crude supplies from Nigeria,”Sucden analyst Michael Davies said.
Energy giant Royal Dutch Shell reportedly announced on Wednesday that it had had to cut output by 150,000 barrels a day at its Bonny Light terminal in Nigeria after villagers sabotaged pipelines.
Crude oil prices had fallen Tuesday as supply concerns in Nigeria, the world's sixth biggest producer of crude, had temporarily eased following news that unions in the country had suspended a two-day strike.
“However, despite this bearish news the market remains well supported by the threat of further militant attacks on oil facilities in the region, which have already shut in around 25 percent of the country's oil output,” Davies added.
Brent North Sea crude for July delivery rose 28 cents to 68.41 dollars a barrel in electronic trading. It had shed 1.58 dollars on Tuesday.
New York's main oil futures contract, light sweet crude for delivery in July, climbed 54 cents to 63.69 dollars a barrel in electronic deals before the official open of the US market. On Tuesday the contract dived 2.05 dollars.
“Crude futures were higher (Wednesday) ... recovering from losses in the previous session and following another cut in crude supplies from Nigeria,”Sucden analyst Michael Davies said.
Energy giant Royal Dutch Shell reportedly announced on Wednesday that it had had to cut output by 150,000 barrels a day at its Bonny Light terminal in Nigeria after villagers sabotaged pipelines.
Crude oil prices had fallen Tuesday as supply concerns in Nigeria, the world's sixth biggest producer of crude, had temporarily eased following news that unions in the country had suspended a two-day strike.
“However, despite this bearish news the market remains well supported by the threat of further militant attacks on oil facilities in the region, which have already shut in around 25 percent of the country's oil output,” Davies added.
National Anti Corruption Plan by ACP in the offing
The ACP’s Consultative Council with the involvement of a broad range of professional associations, civil society groups, and government bodies has engaged itself in reviewing a number of areas and has also been instrumental in drafting a National Anti Corruption Plan that has had inputs from the participatory process.
This draft plan will be presented to a large Stakeholder Forum at the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan Conference in June 2007 marking the culmination of aforesaid participatory process.
The Action Plan focuses on measures to reduce corruption within various sectors such as government, civil society, media, private sector, donors and others, and includes setting up of measurement criteria to monitor and evaluate progress.
Following the National Conference, the National Action Plan will be finalized, translated and presented to all stakeholders including the Government in July. At the same time a National Anti-corruption Public Exposition will be held to create broad public awareness under the dual theme 'Stop Corruption' and 'Let's Break the Chain of Corruption'.
As part of education and awareness activities the ACP has commissioned a book by noted Sri Lankan children's book author and Illustrator Sybil Wettasinghe on the theme of anti-corruption for children between the ages of 11 and 15, as a long-term strategy aimed at inculcating good values among the next generation of Sri Lankans. A series of competitions in drama, essay, paintings and slogan for the school children have been also held and the winners will be announced and awarded at the Public Exposition scheduled for July.
This draft plan will be presented to a large Stakeholder Forum at the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan Conference in June 2007 marking the culmination of aforesaid participatory process.
The Action Plan focuses on measures to reduce corruption within various sectors such as government, civil society, media, private sector, donors and others, and includes setting up of measurement criteria to monitor and evaluate progress.
Following the National Conference, the National Action Plan will be finalized, translated and presented to all stakeholders including the Government in July. At the same time a National Anti-corruption Public Exposition will be held to create broad public awareness under the dual theme 'Stop Corruption' and 'Let's Break the Chain of Corruption'.
As part of education and awareness activities the ACP has commissioned a book by noted Sri Lankan children's book author and Illustrator Sybil Wettasinghe on the theme of anti-corruption for children between the ages of 11 and 15, as a long-term strategy aimed at inculcating good values among the next generation of Sri Lankans. A series of competitions in drama, essay, paintings and slogan for the school children have been also held and the winners will be announced and awarded at the Public Exposition scheduled for July.
SLFP to take Mangala, Sripathy to task
The SLFP Central Committee decided on Wednesday to go ahead with disciplinary inquiries against ousted Ministers Mangala Samaraweera and Sripathy Sooriyarachchi.
The Committee met in the presence of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and discussed disciplinary inquiries against the two Ministers regarding statements they had made before being removed from their posts.
Party General Secretary Maithripala Sirisena said they would charge sheet Mr. Samaraweera upon his return from the United Kingdom.
Mr. Sirisena however said Mr. Samaraweera would be given two weeks to consider rejoining the government.
Among other matters, the SLFP which is the largest party in the governing coalition, decided to hold its party convention this month.
The Committee met in the presence of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and discussed disciplinary inquiries against the two Ministers regarding statements they had made before being removed from their posts.
Party General Secretary Maithripala Sirisena said they would charge sheet Mr. Samaraweera upon his return from the United Kingdom.
Mr. Sirisena however said Mr. Samaraweera would be given two weeks to consider rejoining the government.
Among other matters, the SLFP which is the largest party in the governing coalition, decided to hold its party convention this month.
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