SLA shelling targets Theavanpiddi, civilian killed

[TamilNet, Sunday, 27 July 2008, 18:00 GMT]
A civilian was killed and two wounded Sunday when Sri Lanka Army (SLA) launched artillery and mortar barrage as displaced civilians were engaged in transporting their movable properties at Thevanpiddi, one of the topmost localities of Mannaar district. The SLA launched a day-long intense shelling barrage from 7:00 a.m. targeting Theavanpiddi where the statue of Our Lady of Madu was placed for the past 12 weeks. The shrine was taken on an ambulance by the Church authorities via Omanthai to Mannaar Bishop's House on Friday.

The victim, V. Selvakumar, was an IDP who was engaged in relocating his belongings.

The wounded were identified as V. Thomas, 26, and Nantharoopan.

Thevanpiddi is located 31 km northeast of Mannaar city and 37 km southwest of LTTE controlled Poonakari (Pooneryn).

Meanwhile, Mannaar Bishop's House is still waiting for a favourable response on its demand for a de-militarized peace zone in Madu covering the area of 2.5 km radius around the Madu Church.

Related Articles:
27.04.08   SLA occupation of Madu, triggers fears of renewed Sinhalicis..