Statement by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the capture of Thoppigala, the LTTE's last stronghold in the East.

"I join the people in offering tribute and all good wishes to the members of the Armed Forces, Police and Special Task Force who, through their participation in the humanitarian exercise to free the people of the East
from the clutches of terrorism, captured the last stronghold of the terrorists located at Thoppigala.

I remember with honour all heroes of war and members of the families of those who sacrificed their lives or were wounded in this exercise carried out on behalf of the country and nation.

May you be Blessed by the Triple Gem!