Defence Minister concedes, LTTE military build up around Trinco is cause for concern

[October 10, 2003 - 10.45 GMT]

Defence Minister Tilak Marapone Wednesday acknowledged that the LTTE strength in the areas surrounding the Trincomalee harbour has increased after the ceasefire agreement was signed. 

“It is true that with the CFA many opportunities have been afforded to the LTTE to strengthen themselves,” Minister Marapone said in his reply during the adjournment debate on the security situation in the East.

“This could not be checked because the Sri Lankan armed forces did not have the numbers to dominate the area though the government was claiming that area”, he said.

But the Minister assured that the security forces have been kept on a state of preparedness, and the government has the required military hardware to face any contingency.

“I welcome debates of this nature which draw the attention of everyone to the problems which have ensued consequent to the ceasefire,” the Minister told his fellow legislators in Parliament.

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Last Updated Date: October 10, 2003  -10.45 GMT.