8 hours ago

COLOMBO (AFP) — Government forces on Friday wrested control of a strategic town after heavy fighting with Tamil Tiger rebels that left at least 40 people dead, the defence ministry said.

Security forces entered the town of Mulliyawalai near Mullaittivu, the main military headquarters of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the defence ministry said.

"Troops are now engaged in a fierce gun battle with the LTTE in the area," the ministry said in a statement. It said the Tigers had suffered heavy losses but did not give details of the latest fighting.

by Rohitha Bogollagama, M.P

(December 24, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) At a time when the Christian world is celebrating Christmas I am indeed happy to send a message to all Christians and Catholics in Sri Lanka who are joining their brethren in celebrating this important event in the Christian calendar.

In recognition of the multi-ethnic and multi-religious social fabric of Sri Lanka, a decision was made by our Government under the leadership of H.E. the President to celebrate, at the state level, at least one major religious event of the four main religions in Sri Lanka.

M. A. Phakurdeen Addalaichenai group correspondent  

A series of ceremonies are being organised by Departments, INGOs and organisations in Ampara District to commemorate the 4th Anniversary of Tsunami which has been declared as National Safety day by the Government. 

A Mass Awareness Rally on multi hazard awareness organised by the Department of Disaster Management and Human rights with the assistance of Sri Lanka Red Cross Society along with four other INGOs at Kalmunai will be the main feature of the ceremony of the District on the day.