Sri Lanka: Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaithivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts Situation Report # 159

JAFFNA DISTRICT

Situation update

-The security situation remained tense across Jaffna District. Artillery shelling continues towards the FDL lines. Heavy fighting is ongoing, especially in the areas around the FDL in the Muhamalai/ Kilali region. Cordon and search operations continue.

-A three-day informative exhibition titled "Future Minds of Jaffna" was organized by the security forces. Security checks were increased in Jaffna town during the event.

-Jaffna experienced unexpected power cuts during daytime hours, and a two-hour extension of the regular evening power cut. Mobile telephone networks continue to be unreliable.

-The curfew remains in place from 2100 - 0430 hours, although it was relaxed for Christmas, New Year's Eve and the duration of the exhibition.

Displacement/Returns

-As of 31 December 2008, 155 persons (58 families) fleeing the Vanni arrived in Jaffna. All Vanni IPDs are being accommodated at the Kopay Teachers' Training College. UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP and ICRC have been permitted to visit the IDPs.

-Government media reports that another 12 IDPs from the Vanni have reached Jaffna. However, this information has not yet been confirmed.

KILINOCHCHI & MULLAITHIVU DISTRICTS

Situation update

-The security situation continued to deteriorate in both the Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts. Civilian casualties [10] and dozens of injuries from aerial bombardments and artillery shelling are being reported.

-Fighting centered around the Paranthan and Iranaimadu junction and Uruththiraparam areas in Kilinochchi district and in areas close to Mulliyavalai and Uduppukkulam in Mullaitivu districts. The SLA advanced towards Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu towns, with people living in areas close to Puthukkudiyiruppu (PTK) and Visuvamadu along the A35 road displacing. The SLA captured Paranthan, Karadippokku (near the old UNHCR office) and Iranaimadu junctions on 01 / 02 January.