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Terrorists unsafe in Vavuniya [25 February 2000] Concentrated security efforts by Sri Lankan armed forces have effectively taken Vavuniya off the list of safe havens for LTTE terrorists, according to Major General Neil Dias, Commander of Security Forces in the Wanni. Speaking at a press conference at the Vavuniya Operational Headquarters, Major General Dias said intensified security operations had recovered large quantities of explosives, suicide kits, arms and ammunition, particularly in the last month. Journalists attending the press conference also visited the crossing point at Piravanalankulam, Madhu Junction, and witnessed civilians crossing to Jaffna and also those who were seeking refuge at camps in Vavuniya town. Military sources said a large number of the civilians who had crossed over to cleared areas since December last year have now returned to their villages. Over 500 civilians are said to be crossing the line to the cleared areas in the two days they are permitted to do so each week. Civilians have described their daily lives in the uncleared areas as being of extreme difficulty due to the LTTE's presence in the area. "Life in the uncleared areas is terrible due to LTTE harassment. Even the prices of essentials are sky high. We are looking for a better future for our children," civilians told the journalists. Every day, 23 lorries carrying
essential items are thoroughly checked and released to the ICRC at the Piravanalankulam
crossing point to distribute to people in Killinochchi, Mulaitivu, Mannar and Vavuniya
districts.
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Related Articals:  Ten civilians sentenced to death by the LTTE27/01/2000 Civilian
abducted and tortured by the LTTE 26/01/2000
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