A total of 1,386 civilians have sought protection with troops of the 58 Division now operating North of Iranapalai and Andampuram in Mullaittivu by yesterday, the Ministry of Defence said.

The civilians held hostage by LTTE as a human shield for over three months were fired upon by LTTE terrorists using small arms and heavy mortar and rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) from the declared No Fire Zone, the source said citing a few escapees.

413 men, 378 women, 315 boys and 330 girls were among the civilians who had arrived seeking protection with security forces yesterday.