Limited operation conducted purely on humanitarian grounds-Press Statement by Defence Spokesman July 26 [Thursday, July 27, 2006 - 9.30 GMT]

“It is recognized that denial of water to civilian populations and hostile acts against infrastructure indispensable to the survival of civilian populations constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The LTTE on Thursday 20 July 2006 forcibly closed the Sluice-Gate of the Mawilaru Anicut (Irrigation Channel) that provides water to Seruwila, Muttur and Ichalampattu areas in the Trincomalee District. This hostile and inhuman act by the LTTE has prevented the flow of water that sustains over 15,000 families and irrigates approximately 30,000 acres of paddy land. The people in these villages are dependent on the water supplied by the Mawilaru Anicut for drinking purposes and agriculture.

The Government made all possible endeavors including efforts through the SLMM to persuade the LTTE to restore the water supply, however the Sluice-Gates remain closed up to now.

This evening the Security Forces were compelled to conduct an air operation against identified targets which instigated the forcible closer of the Anicut. This limited operation was conducted purely on humanitarian grounds to neutralize the disruptive forces that are preventing the free flow of water to the civilian population. ”

Meanwhile the Army described yesterday’s (26) limited air strikes as being aimed at dislodging the terrorists blocking the sluice gates.

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Last Updated Date: July 27, 2006 -9.30 GMT