LTTE lures civilians with money to attack STF

by Sarath Malalasekera

The LTTE is offering financial inducements to civilians to attack STF sentry points in the East.

The STF states that the LTTE has approached civilians, pressurising them to lob grenades at sentry points resorting to the same tactics applied by them in the Northern theatre.

Accordingly a person who is willing to lob a grenade at the sentry points are paid Rs. 1,000 and in case he is killed in action, his family has been offered Rs. 50,000. Further, the LTTE has also offered Rs. 10,000 monthly for volunteers, who provide information with regard to the movements of the troops attached to the STF Sagama Camp.

Since of late the LTTE is plagued with numerous problems in the East, due to various reasons. STF managed to neutralise several plans of attacks on their troops and was able to get close to the masses, during the recent turbulent period.

The STF has earned the wrath of the LTTE due to these reasons. In the backdrop of this situation several sources have revealed that the LTTE is intending to plan attacks on the STF troops whiles on patrols. Detecting a pressure mine meant for STF troops on 7.5.2005, thwarted the plans of the LTTE.

Now it is reported the LTTE is resorting to the tactics applied by them in the Northern Theatre. Furthermore a group identified as Sangiliyan Group had distributed leaflets in the displaced centres in Thirukkovil area on 29.05.2005. The leaflets had warned the inmates of the displaced centres to refrain from associating with STF personnel and such people will be dealt severely.

The above noted initiatives of the LTTE truly reflect their present predicament and eroding public confidence, a source said.