Civilians fleeing LTTE areas rescued by Navy
2008-11-05 17:54:56

A group of 28 civilians including 6 children who were fleeing from LTTE held areas in two boats were rescued by the Navy on Tuesday, the Defence Ministry said.

The escapees who included 13 males, 9 females and 6 children and were residents of Mullaian, Kaddaikadu, Paranthan, Kilinochchi and Champianpaththu areas.

They had told the Navy that civilians living in non-liberated areas in the North have to undergo severe hardships as a result of LTTE activities, including extortion and conscription of youngsters, the Defence Ministry web site said.

The escapees have been provided with food as well as necessary medical treatment and later handed over to the Kankesanturai Police. Government authorities there have made arrangements to provide them with shelter. .