Tamil Tiger Inc. exposed by Jane’s Intelligence Review

Jane's Intelligence Review, in its August 2007 edition will publish a major expose on the Global financial network of the LTTE, according to a press release issued by the JIR.

 

This will be some what the most updated and informed report on LTTE's international funding and procurement network, published on the public fora in resent times and surely will be welcomed by almost all who are interested in LTTE and its rain of terror.

 

This report will be a chronicle of LTTE's culture of fear and deceit as lions share of its funding are gained through 'taxes' from overseas Tamil Diaspora and the people living in areas under the LTTE in Northern Sri Lanka.   

 

Reuters commenting on the Jane's report added that the report paints a picture of a powerful global network of professional managers -- both Tamils and others -- across a string of countries with operations perhaps from shipping to drugs and extortion.

 

Furthermore, Christian LeMiere, managing editor of Jane's Country Risk, commented to Reuters "Some of the money will go on arms, some of it on administrating areas controlled by the LTTE," and It further states that "with financial and procurement structures well organized and strategically positioned around the globe, the group has a profit margin that would be the envy of any multinational corporation – some USD200 to 300 million per year"

 

Some of the interesting aspects of the envisaged report as highlighted by the JIR press release are the LTTE's channeling of Tsunami aid money, LTTE use of fronts and cover organisations involved in charity and social work, transfer of arms, narcotics ,contraband and people smuggling. Press Release further indicates the reports details of how the LTTE convert the gains into arms, utilizing a charitable façade's tax-free status and legitimacy.

 

This report will be very much welcomed in terms of understanding the depth of the LTTE's reach and its nature as a global financial terrorist group. I guess the LTTE will face more increased pressure once the report will be public, so are the governments who's territory are being used by LTTE for its illegal activity.

 

Of the main hubs of LTTE activity the report has highlighted Cambodia and Southern India, being its principal staging posts, while it lists some other countries in Southeast Asia and rest of the world as sources of arms for the LTTE.

 

How much the Sri Lankan government will do to curb such activity in terms of raising this issue with host governments remains a question.

 

Below is the full text of the Press Release issued by the Jane's:

 

USD200 million profit margins maintain sophisticated Tamil Tiger war

 

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has created one of the most sophisticated insurgencies in the world, largely due to a complex global network of financial resources and weapons that are integral to prolonging its campaign for a separate Tamil state in Sri Lanka.

 

In a unique report on the financial operations of the LTTE, Jane's Intelligence Review reports that with financial and procurement structures well organised and strategically positioned around the globe, the group has a profit margin that would be the envy of any multinational corporation – some USD200 to 300 million per year.

 

The Tamil Tigers is consequently the only known insurgent organisation with its own army, navy and now even a rudimentary air force, with access to financial resources and weapons giving it the luxury of introducing bold, new dimensions to the conflict.

 

The report details two overarching financial and procurement bodies that provide the main source of LTTE money, manpower and weapons; the Aiyanna Group and the Office of Overseas Purchases (nicknamed the KP Department).

 

The Aiyanna Group functions as the group's intelligence and operations body, likely to be responsible for monitoring and ensuring the organisation's financial support and revenue streams, while the KP Department is most probably the LTTE's procurement arm.

 

In addition, the LTTE creates and staffs some charitable organisations, projecting its influence through this front to raise money from Tamil communities and, ultimately, convert the gains into arms.

 

The Jane's Intelligence Review report says that the system works as an efficient way to move funds wherever investment or procurement opportunities arise while utilising a charitable façade's tax-free status and legitimacy.

 

Geographically, the LTTE use a myriad of methods to maintain this formidable, non-state support structure. The southern province of Tamil Nadu in India plays a pivotal role in LTTE procurement and has become an essential transit point in the LTTE arms, narcotics, contraband and possibly human smuggling.

 

Beyond Sri Lanka's neighbour, Cambodia is one of the most significant single sources of weapons for the insurgent group. The remainder of internationally procured weapons are believed to originate from the rest of Southeast Asia, North Korea, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and Ukraine.

 

The report adds that the procurement of anti-aircraft technology, given the destruction wrought by the Sri Lankan Armed Forces' aerial assets, will be the primary driver of the LTTE's continued international fundraising campaign. (ENDS)

Ranil, Ranil... Go away…never to come, another day…

Time has come for Ranil Wickramasingha to step down and fade away. He has to step down as the leader of the United National party (UNP) and fade away from Sri Lankan Politics. Ranil has done nothing for this country other then hurting the fabric of this society so much, over the period of time he was in Politics.

Since he became the deputy minister of education in JRJ administration he has caused chaos, like the mess he did with the introduction of a destructive White Paper, to infamous Batalanda torture house and later with the introduction of the CFA, nothing but irreplaceable damage.

During the premiership of Ranil, LTTE not only got a new lease of life, but also a life line in terms of receiving quasi state of recognition. CFA had its own good things, it brought some sense of peace and stability, opened the LTTE controlled 'living prisons' areas to normal life and brought about investor confidence and better economic opportunities, but at what cost?

LTTE never saw the peace process and the CFA as a viable option in search of peace but an opportunity to seek an impasse to engage in terrorism against the people of Sri Lanka. Under the cover of the CFA, the LTTE embarked on a campaign of murder and assassination. It rearmed itself and re trained its cadre. During CFA time, LTTE was instrumental in recruiting more than several thousand child soldiers and used the peaceful and open access as a time to stockpile weapons of violence and murder.

All this was attributed to Ranil's failure to act according to established and agreed norms of the CFA and uphold the laws of the land. While Ranil gave a blind eye to increasing amounts of CFA violations, he never raised the LTTE campaign of assassination and re armament with his 'International safety net'.

If not for the Tsunami of December 2004, the LTTE would have launched a preemptive strike against the Government and annihilate the forces in North and East.

There is much to be said about Ranil and his misdeeds during his Premiership and the time prior to that but that's not the focus of this post. It's more to do with Ranil's constant attempt to undermine the integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka in the resent times, and also role as a campaigner to win back support for the LTTE.

Ranil's resent comments on the capture of Thoppigala, the last bastion of LTTE control in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, aptly describe the inner workings and the portrays the real Ranil Wickramasingha for all the see.

Wickramasinghe's initial position is capturing Thoppigala is a useless exercise as it is worthy only for collectors of fire-woods, and went on to question the use of 700 square Kilometers of jungle .later he had the audacity to allege that the security forces allow the LTTE leaders including Ramesh and its cadres to escape from Thoppigala with all of its military hardware including multi-barrel rocket launchers.

Ranil told the press that the order that the LTTE leaders and cadres should be allowed to escape through pre-arranged route came from Colombo, allegedly from the political leadership of MR administration.

Whatever the value or not of Thoppigala to Ranil, the reaction of the LTTE was, such that it was in shock and at sense of Desperation. Such was the Desperation of the LTTE, S.P Thamilchelvam, the political head of the LTTE vowed to fight back and threthned to hit economic and military targets of the country, with the aim to cripple the economy. And Illanthiriyan, the LTTE spokesmen concede that they were defeated in the East to BBC. Such was the view of the LTTE for the loss of a ' patch of jungle'. But then Ranil went on to say "there was not much to crow about".

Then with regards to Ranil's allegation of letting the remaining LTTE cadres flee Thoppigala, whether it's true or not, the government from the beginning reiterated that this operation was a humanitarian operation, not an offensive, in order to clear the East of the scourge of the LTTE and establish normalcy and civil administration.

By examining the conduct of the operation, it was quite evident that the governments' war strategy was not based on killing as much as LTTE or capturing or destroying its war machine but to follow its interest in clearing the East. As such, the forces were more committed in wrestling control of Thoppigala from LTTE, and not a bloodbath.

If the allegations are true then it proves that unlike the UNP governments' crush of the JVP insurrection in the 1980s, which Ranil was a major player in, the Army was not in for a bloodbath, nor they were intended on butchering the LTTE. But close study of military achievements gained since the Maavil Aru Operation, portrayers a strategy that achieved maximum results at a minimum loss of life. may be this is due to MR administrations claim that they do not believe in a all out military solution but a peaceful end to this conflict, at the same time never to give in to Terror.

So far that in all means stands evident, and the LTTEs' loss of East is very much a reality.

Ranil today stands alone, abandoned by a treacherous international community ,lost among the hoards of NGO wallah's who used to cajole him and surrounded by a group of vultures, awaiting his downfall, to start devolving him. Long gone are the trusted Journalists, who traveled under his wings, justifying his every move, as a traitor of peace loving citizens of this land.

Abandoned, alone and in company of vultures is no qualification for a leader of this land.

Therefore, Ranil must go, never to return.

LTTE Declaration of its commitment to Terrorism

So the LTTE has spoken, after all it seems the LTTE is in shock over the loss of Thoppigala. And this is no more evident in the resent statement by S.P Thamilchelvam, the Political head of LTTE.

In a statement, seen as more as an LTTE reiteration of its commitment to terrorism, Thamilchelvam has gone on to state that the LTTE will effectively engage against the Sri Lankan government and use whatever means to destroy and destabilize the Sri Lankan military.

"(We will) weaken the military capacity of the government of Sri Lanka, which will invariably end up hitting economic targets as well," Thamilchelvam told The Associated Press, declining to elaborate , yesterday 12th July, from their hideout deep in the jungles of Killinochchi.
However, far more ground breaking and what is seen more of a reiteration to its commitment to use of terrorism is more than ever evident in Thamilchelvam's statement where he claimed the LTTE will hit major economic and military targets, in an aim to cripple the economy of Sri Lanka.

Not only this is a indication of the LTTE's mounting loses but also the fact that the LTTE is facing a desperate situation in terms of not only saving face but also long its so called military 'might'.

There is not much to be surprised over Thamilchelvams statement, as the LTTE over its three decades of violence has been using tactics of terror against all kinds of targets, not only restricted to Military and Military related .

The LTTE has actively targeted civilian centres and government locations, serving purely Civil Administrative tasks. The LTTE has, over the period bombed several locations in Colombo, all Public, including bomb attacks in Maradana, Dehiwala Railway station and Central Bank. Moreover, the LTTE has attacked and crippled the only International Air Port in Sri Lanka, Katunayake International Airport .

Therefore Thamilchelvam's rhetoric of a bloodbath is some what unfounded, but then the important point here is that the LTTE after many years of waging open warfare has suddenly decided to revert to its age old tactics of terrorism.
This is how the LTTE is distinguishes from the rest of the worlds territories organisations, as they effectively identify economic targets as legitimate targets.

But when you consider economic sites in a free country, they are also centres of civilian concentration, and since we don't have the Military running economic sites and institutions, hence, any target against an economic site or concentration should be also considered a target against a civilian centre. Therefore, LTTE's claim of its intention to attack economic targets can be interpreted as a statement of its intent to attack the civilians of this country.
As the desperation mounts within LTTE hierarchy and its search for scapegoats and ghost within, there will be more and more pressure mounting on the LTTE hierarchy to address the issue of losing face and loss of moral both within the fighting cadres and its international network of financiers. Therefore, considering the LTTE's performance in the past and the tactics and strategies employed it is quite evident that the LTTE, given the opportunity will strike civilian targets.

Important question is what will the government does in terms of addressing this threat and also what will be the reaction of the so called 'international community' over such threats and attacks.

As for the government, the MR administration has over the past have embarked on a more stringent security measures over LTTE targeting of civilians, however such attempts were mostly centered on key urban areas in Colombo ,outskirts and other main population centres and not in rural areas , especially in LTTE threat areas. While the security of the citizenry is paramount to the government, civil liberties and freedom must not be scarified in the name of countering LTTE terror.

Consequently, any increase in security measures will be an added advantage to the Colombo based 'Civil Society' and its 'crusade' against the (only) Governments so called 'human rights' abuses. While the 'Civil Society' focuses its sights on the activities of the government and ignore grave violations of all rights know to man by the LTTE, it will use any stringent security measures as an epitome of bad governance and lack of respect for Human Rights.

As for the international community , they need to understand the LTTE threat to attack economic targets, vis a vis Civilian targets as a greave threat against not only Sri Lankan's living in non-LTTE controlled areas but also against any country that has a LTTE or Pro-LTTE Tamil Diaspora presence.although LTTE has never (at least not recorded) carried out a major attack against civilians in foreign countries, it has a long and bloody record of carrying out a low intensity campaign of violence against Tamils living in Western countries , who oppose activities of the LTTE.

Resent bombings in London and capture of massive loads of explosives en-route to Colombo in few parts of Sri Lanka are some of the grim reminders of LTTE's commitment to use of terror against civilians and S.P Thamilchelvams statement to the effect of attacking economic/civilian targets is a declaration of LTTE's reiteration towards its commitment in use of violence and murder, or basically terrorism as a alternative against peaceful dialogue. For the LTTE peaceful dialogue or peace talks is not a viable option but an opportunity to seek an impasse to engage in terrorism against the people of Sri Lanka.

Exit Thoppigala, enter Vanni

Fate is sealed, the dye is cast for LTTE presence in Thoppigala, and the last bastion of power of LTTE in Eastern Province has fallen. I got a SMS from Dialog-Reuters alert service saying " Thoppigala captured with LTTE losing its Eastern headquarters a few hours ago, troops still clearing the area-Brig.Prasad Samarashinghe " 1055hrs, 11^th July 2007.

So that's it. Thoppigala has finally fallen, and I wonder what Illanthiriyan, the LTTE "military spokesmen" has to say about it. Lo and behold, he did say some thing. It was sent out via the Dialog-Reuters alert service saying " LTTE "will use every possible mode to engage the enemy" post Thoppigala fall." if they want to come to the North ,let them come and see what happens"

There are few things I observed in that statement. One is that, mentally the LTTE has adjusted itself to the imminent fall of Thoppigala for the last few weeks, and the statement was the culmination of it. That's the reason why they say "will use every possible mode to engage the enemy", hinting that they will revert to guerrilla warfare to fight the Government in the East. There is a hint of desperation within the LTTE in that statement, but then only time will say the validity of my statement.

Interestingly, this was the same view most of the Colombo based Tamils, who were sympathetic towards the LTTE were saying too. They too have been coming under immense pressure, as the Government was seen relentless in its push towards Thoppigala and the LTTE seemed clueless over its defenses in East. So, in turn the Pro LTTE Colombo Tamils started to push the idea that the imminent loss of Thoppigala was no big deal to the LTTE, as they (LTTE) was planning to vacate it anyway (to make space to war affected etc? ), and the LTTE will revert to guerrilla warfare in the East against the Government forces.

However, I have some reservations over this. LTTE has for a long period of time, had operated as a quasi uniformed force, with line fighting units and established support structures. So none of these cadres have been trained nor practiced the art of covert urban warfare and are, like the Military dependent on heavy weaponry at times. That's point one, against the LTTEs revert to Guerrilla warfare in the East.

Then, even if they have trained cadres in such type of warfare, can they operate clandestinely in the East, given the factors posed by the present situation?

Current situation is that the anti-Prabhakaran breakaway LTTE group, the Karuna faction and armed elements of EPDP are at loggerheads and involved in somewhat open war with each other, while at the same time the Karuna Group has split into two with Pillian, Karuna's former trusted Military commander fighting against the Karuna Group (K) has crated a major hotbed of inter-militancy war in the East.

In this scenario, while Karuna (K), Karuna (P) and EPDP are on the look out for each others activity and try and check mate in a violent manner, how will the remaining fatigued and demoralized LTTE cadres in East wage a guerrilla war against the Government?

So, point two is that in terms of actual power, the LTTE is severely drained in the East and in absence of a fresh infusion of blood from Vanni, whoever left in the East, of the LTTE is going to quietly disappear. However, there may be a clamor or two might materialize but it will not hamper the Governments intended political timetable set for East.

Going back to Ilanthiriyan statement, where he said. " if they want to come to the North, let them come and see what happens", it seems that there is a definite expectation from the side of the LTTE that the attack on its Northern stronghold is imminent. Though I will take it in pinch of salt, as I have also heard what both V.Thamilchelvan and R.Illanthiriyan had to say about Muttur/Sampoor/ Mavil Aru and Verugal earlier. LTTE's rhetoric of its great power, war and mother of all casualties within SL military is nothing but a dud.

Ilantheriyan in an interview with Roland Burke of the BBC when asked whether the LTTE has received a defeat said that, "In a way yes. From a point of view it is a defeat." since the government forces have gained a greater control of the Eastern Province".

So from another point of view, fall of Thoppigala is the start of a new Political landscape in Sri Lanka. There is East in one side , along with the governments intention to hold elections there, and then there is the LTTE, backed out from Peace Talks, severely under pressure over- child recruitments , exchange of terror know-how with other international terrorist groups, financial fraud/extortion in host countries in North America and Europe/Australia, to name a few on the pariah list of the rest of the International Community and the falling economy of the country along with the so called HR 'abuses' in the part of the government , will crate a unique mix of choices and options to all the powers to be.

I, Dhutugemunu...

07/07/07 came and went. That was a Saturday, again another 7. Then came Sunday, Sunday comes along with Sunday papers and going through 'The Nation' there was an interesting interview with Hon. Mervyn Silva, MP and Labour Minister (non Cabinet) of MR government.

Mervyn Silva is infamous for not only his acts of assault and harassment (even within Parliament chamber) but also for his relationship with the leadership of this country and also the criminal underworld. So much so many refer to him as the god father of all major kingpins of all illicit trades and is what the Insurance Corporation to an ordinary Merchant to the criminal underworld.

His son is no different from the father, a know thug, he is a regular fixture till recently in Colombo night life, and spares no one who 'crosses' his path. This included Police personal and members of Media.

There was a time when Sirasa and MTV used to repeat over and over, Mervyns blatant threat and an almost assault on a camera man outside the Courts complex in Colombo 10.

Mervyn is a marked man in India, well known for his connections to Drug kingpins of India and is said that Indian Customs and anti Drug Police has a permanent watch on him. In Sri Lanka, Mervyn Silva used his Parliamentary privileges and inside influence to covertly or overtly assist all most all the Drug barons and the lesser drag dealers ,when they face 'trouble' with Police and Law Enforcement services.

Mervyn Silva was a one time supporter of the 'Peace Mafia' even went on to share the stage with the rest of the peace mafia including Jehan perera ,Kumar Rupashingha & Co,. this wan when that infamous incident occurred ,when a group of JHU/NSF supporters led by few monks tried to disrupt a National Anti War Meeting , when Mervyn leashed out his 'Peace Force' against them.

Mervyn Silva is well known for his loyalty to the top. This virtue brought him from a regular SLFP thug to a SLFP Member of Parliament, appointed through the National List (after he lost the election when he received only few thousand votes), mainly thanks to his services provided to one time 'defender' of Democracy and Rule of Law in Sri Lanka, Mrs.CBK. when MR became president, Mervyns loyalties simply shifted towards Medamulana Walawwa.

Anyway here are some interesting points of that interview. Moreover, I suggest all readers should refer to the full text of the interview, as this is, in my view a chronicle of bankrupt leadership and reliance on common criminals in modern day politics of Sri Lanka.

His remarks on being a confidant of the President " When I was in the UNP, I was close to Ranil Wickremesinghe. I have always been close to the leaders. With the present leader, we have a friendship for generations. Nothing has happened to the respect I have for the former president. But, I am very angry with her, for making derogatory remarks of our party and of our leader, in a private newspaper" is a silent testimony to this.

Some excerpts from the Interview:

Mervyn's view of Sripathi and Mangala decamping MR & Co.-

All who came to our party are giants, while the two who went to the other side were just two pebbles.

JVP's accusation of concealing details of vehicles-

I am important to myself and to my family. This is why I refused to give details. I won't reveal further details

On Certain remarks made in Parliament against Anura Kumara Dissanayake which were expunged from the Hansard-

It is an accepted norm that one does not marry the relatives of one's father. But, in today's newspapers, we read of fathers sleeping with their daughters. I am not like this. My record is straight.

How Mervyn deals with LTTE supporters and violators of peace-

But, if anybody supported the LTTE or, attempts to destroy peace, I won't go to the police to lodge an entry. Instead, I will kill them with my own pistol.

Mervyn's license to kill-

To do something beneficial for society, I do not need any license. Never fear to do good. King Dutugemunu said that his efforts were not for his throne but, for the Sinhala race and Buddhism.

Mervyn's Justifications for being a descendant of Dutugemunu-

I have written proof of my lineage to Dutugemunu. My original name is Hewakoparage Mervyn. The name Silva was bestowed by the Portuguese as an honor.

Mervyn's links to abductions –

The importance of a person cannot be judged by his wealth but, should be counted by the virtue of his parents. After all, I am convinced that my mother never slept with outsiders. What runs in my veins is my parents' blood. I grew up drinking my mother's milk. But, dirty blood runs in those who are involved in abductions. I am not that type

On Mervyn's connection with underworld kingpin Lal Peiris alias 'Kudu Lal'-

Who prefixed "Kudu"? Has he been imprisoned? He is a Municipal councilor. He won the election while in England. He is a good friend of mine. I repeat that he is my good friend. So, if he is involved in 'kudu' business, the law enforcement authority should catch him and punish him. The day he is found guilty of drug peddling, I will spit on his face and abandon my friendship with him. I will not give character certificates to such elements. If the police is competent enough, let them catch him

Mervyn on his Son and his brawls –

My son wants to enjoy like others, once a week. There are nightclubs and he has a right to go and enjoy himself. If someone confronts him, he has a right to respond according to his own conscience

On Mervyn's ownership of luxury cars-

I bought this Porsche before I bought the Jaguar. In another year or so, I hope to purchase a helicopter. After this, I will even buy a jet. Why, who cares? My car, my petrol.

Mervyn and his good looks-

The only shortcoming I have is that I am a little short. I would have been more handsome than Vijaya Kumaratunga, if I were three inches taller than him

Reasons for threatening a Muslim beef seller in Kelaniya electorate-

Because, he was selling beef in that area. Kelaniya is a place where Lord Buddha visited and that place must be kept clean. Lord Buddha even bathed in the river and we cannot allow that place to be defiled. Take for instance, India, people don't slaughter cattle. So why encourage this in Kelaniya?

On objection to Tamils and Muslims taking residence in Kelaniya electorate-

No, there is no such thing. But, if a Tamil or, a Muslim planned to settle down there, he should prove his identity. Almost all the destructions have taken place because they have been allowed to come into the city, unchecked. I have made an order in my electorate that all minorities must establish their identity

Mervyn on accusation that the UPFA has given money to the LTTE to win the presidential election-

If this could be proved or if LTTE chief Prabhakaran admits this then we will ask Prabhakaran to take over the government

Solution to the North-East conflict?
Certainly, negotiations.

(For the full text of the interview - http://www.nation.lk/2007/07/08/inter1.htm )

20 years of LTTE Suicide Terror-A History of Human Sacrifices

Today marks twenty years since the infamous attack on the Army personnel in Nelliyadi in Vadamarachchi, Jaffna by LTTE cadre known as "captain miller" ,when he ploughed his explosives laden truck into a makeshift camp in 1987, killing 40 soldiers, injuring a dozen more. Thus LTTE entered the cult of suicide terrorism. Today Suicide attacks carried out by LTTE amounts more than 300 incidents, by far the most amount of attacks carried out by a single terrorist group in the world.

 

LTTE is topping the list of terrorist groups utilizing Suicide Terrorism in all possible categories. May be the only category they haven't so far touched are the use of Child bomber (they have Child soldiers-in fact ,plenty of them), plus Airborne suicide bomber category needs to be added up too. In the hall of fame(shame) they have used men, women, crippled people, partially blind people and even cattle too although in Non-LTTE lacuna term cattle fall into classification as animals. LTTE hierarchy even used pregnant women, as in the failed attack against the Commander of Sri Lanka Army.

 

In terms of targets they have used suicide bombers against a multitude of targets, ranging from Air Craft and Ships to Heads of State. Notable percentage of the victims list include a high amount of Tamils, including moderate politicians, intellectuals, artists, journalists and even ordinary citizens.

 

However, most alarming factor is that the LTTE over the past decade or more have embarked on a campaign to share suicide bombing technology and know-how among other Terrorist groups all over the world. LTTE has established strong links with almost all the major terror groups, and use such links for number of purposes, mainly to acquire weapons and associated material, training and intelligence.

 

There is a more covert and some what unknown LTTE links with the Central and South American Narco-Terrorist groups. This link is being used by LTTE as a channel to collect revenue via drugs smuggling and also to launder black money. Recent capture of a FARC rebel with a distinctive Suicide Bomb jacket that closely resembled the unique jacket type used by the LTTE, in Colombia is a strong indication of LTTEs sharing of bomb making know-how with Narco-terrorists.

 

Throughout North and East and oversease epspeacialy, North America and Europe ,LTTE commemorates 'Black Tiger Week' and culminating on the 5 ^th July, the "Black tiger day" when V.Prabakaran comes out (or since the last few years from within his bunker) and lights the 'Flame of sacrifice' symbolizing the homage to black tigers killed and also highlighting the LTTEs tradition of worshipping death and distraction.

 

LTTEs doctrine of warfare is centered on suicide bombers. And this is so evident in the level of training and devotion they place in selecting and training 'suicide Black Tigers'. Once a cadre is attached to the black tigers group , the members psychologically manipulate the new recruits, persuading them, "brainwashing" them to believe that by carrying out a suicide attack, they would find an honored place in the corridor of martyrs for the LTTEs cause, and their lives would be meaningful; moreover, their families would be financially rewarded.

 

From the time they are recruited, the group members never leave their sides, leaving them no opportunity of backing down from their fatal choice." The glorification of death steps in. The final meal with the 'great leader' V.Prabakaran is somewhat the grand finale of the pre-deployment process. Here the last meal with the leader is portrayed as LTTEs homage of tribute for the sacrifice the attacker is going to make.

 

LTTE is able to benefit from the death of a member immensely. Prabakaran from the beginning understood this, thus conferring a sense of legitimacy on the use of suicide bombers. The message is one of no going back. The group glorifies the act, infusing a culture of martyrdom that may include posters, songs, and flyers, street dramas and in doing so seeks to inspire others to join its ranks. Indeed, even before the bomber has struck, he is in many ways a living martyr. Before undertaking a specific operation, would be suicide bombers are photographed in heroic poses and videos recorded explaining reasoning behind becoming a Human bomb.

 

Today most of the Orphanages and Day care centres in many parts of Vanni (also in the East in Karadiyanaru,Tirikkovil ,Kokuvil, Thoppigala and Sampur - before the fall of East -) are run by the LTTE. This is done under the cover of TRO and 'White Pigeon' ,both organisations being a covert front of LTTE, their mail aim as they claim is to 'ensure the welfare, wellbeing and education' of all war affected orphans of 'maveer' (LTTE veterans ) families.

 

However, not only orphans and young of the LTTE, but also children brought from other Orphanages run by both the government and the church are also part of these LTTE 'homes for children'. They are constantly exposed to LTTE propaganda and all their day to day functions are linked to activities of the LTTE.

 

Rituals and traditions followed in such homes are of the LTTE and not of Hinduism or Christianity. all this effort in the end is to breed and to train a generation of LTTE 'super fighters' who are from the tender ages , trained ,indoctrinated and brainwashed to blindly follow the LTTE and its 'great leader' .even the names of the homes bear the names of late suicide cadres of LTTE.

 

Such is the extent of the LTTEs attempts to crate a tradition of suicide terrorism. Ultimately, LTTE wants its entire cadre of fighters to sacrifice their own lives for the Organisations, in the name of its leader and for a common goal (a common goal which is dictated by the leader and, lesser mortals having no say in).

 

This was no more evident than in the failed attack against the present commander of the Sri Lanka Army, inside the Army HQ in Colombo, last year. a female suicide bomber gained access to the Military Hospital located within the Army HQ , due to her pregnancy , and as a result of the  attack she not only killed herself but also the unborn baby. Such is the level of LTTEs respect for humanity. By using a pregnant woman, not only did it portray the murderous tradition they follow but also displayed its language of death.

 

In reality use of suicide bombers is the outcome of crude cost-benefit analysis in the part of LTTE hierarchy; representing the most efficient manner the LTTE can inflict maximum damage whilst incurring the least cost. In lay mans terms, use of suicide terrorism for LTTE represents "value for money"; it is brutally efficient, cheap, and until recently, has been easy to organize.

 

So today, 20 years after the first use of a suicide bomber by LTTE, Prabakaran commemorates 300+ of his human sacrifices, while the Tamil Diaspora in West and Europe celebrate the culture of death; they have to ask themselves, what they gained in the end. Eelam is no where to be seen and LTTE seems to be the main instigator against the devolution of power and also Peace Negotiated in Norway.

 

In retrospect what a price the Tamil community had to pay for an untenable dream, a false cause and a crusade to sustain a rain of terror. When the time comes will Prabhakaran task his UK educated son or UK educated Daughter as a suicide bomber?

 

Never, Never, Never.

Reuters News alerts on Dialog Mobile phones

Dialog Telecom Ltd, in partnership with Reuters news service has launched a novel service where subscribers get breaking news alerts on Dialog mobile phones. As part of the offered service, Reuters will provide up to the minute breaking news stories covering Sri Lanka and Dialog, will deliver it via sms to its subscriber network.

So far this service is offered free, and assume with time Dialog will include this into its paid services sector. Interested Dialog subscribers are required to type NEWS and send to 7777 for registration. Once you receive a confirmation, you're just a sms away from any breaking news event in Sri Lanka.

Unlike the some what biased content of BBC, Reuters in their reportage is still considered a trusted source, and is considered a network providing timely, unbiased and reliable news and information.

However, given the current situation where there is question on the authenticity and neutrality of the content of both the State and Private electronic media in Sri Lanka, such service can entice ordinary citizens to not only be informed but also to react in a more timely and organized manner.

I see this service with a tremendous amount of potential. Not only for covering breaking news alerts but also this service can be used as a platform for sharing information and advice on many fields and sectors. Especially in areas of Disaster alert and response and also public/ social mobilizing, this kind of service can play a greater role.

Soon after registering, I got my first alert, informing me of SLAF carrying out a bombing sortie against suspected LTTE positions in Thoppigala area. Not that it will help me to re-arrange my travel plans, or may be to re-think about the investment portfolio of my employer, it made me realize the current state of war that we are in and lured me to seek more details of the latest developments in the military operation to capture Thoppigala.

In a state where both the government and the LTTE are doing equal best attempt to keep the ordinary people in the dark, this service will enable any one with a Dialog connection to access Reuters, thus removing the barrier of having Internet access to read international wire service, let alone access to breaking news.

Given the fact that current MR governments close and cozy link with Dialog Telecom (+MTN Malaysia) , i see no obstacle in latter continuing this service in the coming future. but then as with any other 'for profit' business venture, both Dialog and Reuters have to see the financial viability of this , to see things through.

UK Bomb attacks-Travel Advisory

Following London Bombing and attempted bombings in Scotland , I've decided to issue a Travel Advisory to all ,with effect to travel to and from United Kingdom.this advisory is specify issued given the light of the resent attempt to bomb the Glasgow Air Port and also revelations of attempted (and suspected ) bombers connection to UK Medical Health Service.

furthermore, following the UK practice of issuing a travel restriction every time the LTTE carry out a attack against civilian target in Sri Lanka, i decided to issue this Travel Advisory instead of a Restriction , of course. we understand the curse of terror well , and feel the impact of it on our day to day lives. therefor, with that understanding i do not wish to see the same happening to poor people of UK.

There is a high threat from terrorism in UK and a risk of innocent travelers becoming indiscriminately caught up in attacks. Terrorist attacks have taken place throughout the country, including in areas and on travel routes popular with tourists.

Considering the failed attack on Glasgow air port ,travellers should check with airline or travel agent for the latest information about flight schedules.There is heightened security, including in London and other cities.

There have been detentions, particularly of people of Muslim/Islamic affiliations. travellers should ensure that they carry some form of identification with you at all times. If you are detained, you should ask the authorities to contact your embassy or high commission. travellers are strongly advised to comply with government and security force instructions,including signing any document the UK authorities produce , while under detention. unlike places like Sri Lanka , in UK no body will force you to sign any document against you will.

I strongly recommend that all foreign nationals especially Muslims who are resident and/or working in UK, or visiting , should register with the UNHCR or HRW .furthermore, strongly recommend that travelers obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. with regards to securing insurance , travelers can also request assistance of Amnesty International , in the case of illegal detentions. just call Ms.Irene Khan. she will organise a mud slinging campaign against the UK government and call for the Queen to abdicate over the detentions.

sad it may be, the reality of UK bombing is that it depicts the double standards rich countries use against poor countries .basically , if there is a bomb attack , be it how small or insignificant it may be , where ever it may be in Sri Lanka or any country in the UKs 'good to bully' list , they simply issue travel warnings, enforce all kinds of bans and go on talking /sending missions to visit and report on the 'deteriorating' situations,preach about talking peace and democratic dialog with terrorists and so on.

but when faced with the same old "risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks in public places " they simply switch to the 'War on Terror' mode. for them any attack against them is terror and BBC will go on calling suspects well before the UK police will start speculating. BBC will go on and have special 'help' lines and 'information' lines with every report they sent out , thus forcing the listeners into virtual state of 'snitches' . but then , in terms of reporting a incident where LTTE indiscriminately target civilians , BBC will question the LTTEs involvement , and cast doubts about any kind of allegation against the LTTE, further adding a 'inside' twist to any news story.

Resent capture of a Bomb hidden in a fuel tank of a vehicle that arrived in Colombo from LTTE held Kilinochchi , is grim reminder of perils of such policies as practised by UK. the driver was advised by the LTTE handlers in Kilinochchi before his departure , to await a certain phone call , once the vehicle was in Colombo. a call,that did arrive .it directed the driver to a drop off location of the fuel tank/bomb , but the interesting point is ,the call originated in ..........LONDON.

Terrorism is Terrorism, whether its in UK or Sri Lanka , its the use of violence against civilians and , in most cases against elected governments. UK should understand this. they must also understand the fact that , they cannot fight terror at home , while harboring terrorists and terrorist financiers of other countries in their own soil.

Bomb in the Fuel tank of vehicle in Colombo was a chilling reminder of that.