Civilians fleeing uncleared areas on the rise

Nine Tamil youths aged between 20-25, residents from Mullaitivu, surrendered at the naval detachment, at Mannar-Pallimunai on Tuesday.

According to their statements, recorded individually, they reached Papamottai by trekking jungle tracks (an area North of Vidithalathievu) and then walked along the shores up to Pallimunai, where the Sri Lanka Naval detachment was located.

When questioned by the naval personnel, surrendered youths declared that as the Tigers were involved in the conscription of youths, they fled Mullaitivu and sought protection in the Government controlled area. They also said that Tigers’ at present adopt a very aggressive and violent method to recruit youths.

They further revealed that Tigers used to forcefully recruit young ones, as cannon fodders, without any considerations about the future of Tamil youths.

They added that parents’ pleas were simply ignored by Tigers and at times parents intimidated and their voices stilled.

Also they told that if in case one needs to sit for the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examinations, joining the Tigers is a must.

According to reports, Tamil youths who surrendered to the Navy were later handed over to the Mannar Police for further investigations.

Reports revealed that over the last couple of months, more than 200 Tamil civilians fled from Tiger dens, surrendered to Sri Lanka Navy in Mannar area.

A Navy spokesperson said already a large number of civilians fleeing from areas controlled by Tigers had also surrendered to Army and Police. He added that civilians fleeing from the uncleared region at present is on the increase.

- Asian Tribune