"Intelligence reports from Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts indicate that the LTTE is now recruiting schoolchildren who have failed the G.C.E. O/L examination," the Brigadier added. "It is pathetic to note that the LTTE is depriving these innocent children the chance to sit for the examination for the second time."

Earlier, the LTTE prevented youth selected to undergo higher education in Southern universities by urging them to surrender a member of their family to get clearance from the LTTE if they are to proceed to their respective universities.

Brigadier Nanayakkara also revealed that 358 civilians from Wanni had sought protection from the Sri Lankan security forces since January 1, 2008. He reported that 368 Tiger cadres had been killed and another 438 wounded in counter terror offensives conducted since May 1. Commenting on the security forces’ casualties, he said 41 soldiers had been killed and another 155 suffered injuries during these operations. Further, 17 civilians had been killed and 39 others were wounded in terror attacks during this time, he added.