SLA positions prevent return of Kayts displaced

[TamilNet, Wednesday, 07 January 1998, 23:59 GMT]
Government officials in Velanai, in Kayts said today that resttlement of civilians in the area is still not possible due the army's positions in the area. The Sri Lankan army is currently occupying the Velanai central college. The army has closed the road between Bangalawady and Puliyankoodal.

The area between remains a no go zone. This used to be one of the most populated areas in Velanai said the officials.

A large number of people who were displaced when the army moved into the area cannot be resettled as long as the camp remains in the Velanai central college said the officials.

Meanwhile a boat service for civilians from Kayts to the smaller islands of Analaithivu and Eluvaithivu began operating from this morning.

The boat was built in Negombo by the EPDP and was launched officially by the group's leader Douglas Devananda and his deputies last week.

The vessel is called 'Devaratham'. The inauguration of the service has been obviously timed for the elections said sources in Kayts.