Temporary truce ends, government forces recommence operations in Sri Lanka

Apr 15, Colombo: Following the conclusion of two day temporary truce period Sri Lankan government forces today commenced their humanitarian operations in the Northeast, military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said.

Speaking to the media military spokesman confirmed that the forces are now continuing their operations once again, especially the rescuing process of trapped civilians in rebel held areas.

Government forces halted military operations on the midnight of April 12th to mark the Sinhala and Hindu New Year under the directive of Commander-In-Chief, President Mahinda Rajapaksa to limit operations to defensive nature.

Announcing the temporary truce, President urged the LTTE to take the opportunity to free thousands of civilians under its control in the No-Fire Zone in Mullaitivu district.

However, the rebels rejecting the truce as an 'eyewash' to deceive the international community, violated it by attacking the troops on the first day of the truce period. According to the military LTTE cadres have killed a soldier by sniper fire and also fired mortars in the direction of government forces wounding a soldier at Puthukkudyiruppu in Mullaitivu District.

During the lull in fighting troops conducted search and clear operations in the recently captured area of Puthukkudyiruppu.

Troops of 53 Division troops have uncovered 4 surface to air missiles (SAMs) in the general area East of Puthukkudyiruppu

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