Battle in Muttur continues
The Sri Lankan government says it has offered immediate negotiations with Tamil Tiger rebels if the the Maavilarru sluice gates are opened and water is provided to the people down stream.
In interview with BBC Sandeshaya Minister Rambukwella said that “if the sluice gates are opened the discussions could begin immediately “ LTTE spokesperson Rasiya Ilantharaian said that the government could always use diplomatic channels if they are interested in resolving the Maavillaaru crisis through talks. The Minister rejected rebel claims that that the Mutur town has been taken and army camps have been run over. “In certain locations the Tigers are using civilians as human shields and engaging in sporadic attacks “said the minister, Allegations The military says ten civilians were killed in the area when an artillery shell hit a school. The LTTE spokesman blamed the army however minister Rambukwella denied responsibility and blamed the LTTE. Independently verified reports were not available from the area. Minister Rambukwella said that government forcers have established base on the western end of the Maavillaaru dam. The settlers down stream could expect to have water in the next few days said the minister. The LTTE military spokesman said that they are in control of the Muttur town and repulsed an attempt by the Navy to regain the Muttur jetty. Red Cross Ilantherian also said that they have overrun three army camps and have requested the International Red Cross to hand over forty dead bodies of security personnel. However a spokesman for the International Red cross said that no such request has so far been made by the LTTE. The Red Cross says it's been informed that twenty-two thousand people have been displaced in the town of Muttur. Meanwhile Norway is providing humanitarian relief worth Sri Lankan Rupees 150 million (USD 1.5 million) to Sri Lanka. “We hope these funds will help to relieve the most immediate suffering,” said Minster of International Development Erik Solheim.