Influx of civilians fleeing LTTE

Rafik JALALDEEN

Over 1,184 civilians displaced reached the cleared area in Puthukudiyiruppu yesterday.

Military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said the number of displaced who had reached cleared areas now is nearly 50,000.

Around 1,184 civilians have reached the cleared area in Puthukudiyiruppu. “The displaced were directed to IDP centres,” he added.

Another group of 1,983 civilians including 927 males and 1,056 females reached Puthukudiryippu area between 6.00am to 6.00pm on Thursday. “The escaped civilians were later directed to the welfare center following the registration process by troops of 58 Division,” Brigadier Nanayakkara said.

Meanwhile, 29 civilians including 13 males, 10 females and six children had reached Chundikulam, Jaffna around 6.30 pm on Thursday.

Navy spokesman Captain D.K.P. Dassanayke said the Navy had rescued 131 civilians in the seas of Chundikulam around 11.30 am on Thursday. “The naval patrol rescued a group of civilians, on board eight dinghies headed towards Chundikulam,” he added.

The civilians were brought to Munai beach. They were later handed over to the IDP welfare authorities.