LTTE leaders who surrendered were killed by Army Special Forces

December 28th, 2009

by D.B.S. Jeyaraj

“Who Killed Cock Robin”?
Not I, said the Sparrow
With my Bow and Arrow”

The above lines from an old nursery rhyme recur constantly in my mind when looking at the controversy surrounding the deaths of some senior leaders of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam(LTTE) in the early hours of May 18th 2009.

Balasingham Mahendran alias Nadesan

The LTTE’s political commissar Balasingham Mahendran alias Nadesan and head of tiger peace secretariat Seevaratham Prabhakaran alias Pulidevan and some other tiger leaders and members had allegedly been executed in cold blood after surrendering with white flags.

Seevaratham Prabhakaran alias Pulidevan

In the current climate both Government and opposition ranks are in a state of denial about the alleged incident. The focus now is not whether the alleged incident occurred or not but on whether any reference should have been made about it at all.

In such a situation the important question of “Who killed Cock Robin” or in this instance who killed Nadesan and Pulidevan and how they were killed is being sidetracked, overlooked or ignored.

War Crime

Gen.Sarath Fonseka(retd) is in the eye of a controversial political storm following the lead story in “The Sunday Leader” of December 13th 2009 in which it was alleged that the ex-Army chief had accused Defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse of ordering the then 58 division commander Brig(Subsequently promoted as Maj-Gen) Shavendra Silva not to accommodate tiger leaders surrendering with white flags in the early hours of May 18th.

Predictably,the Lead story of the Leader evoked a massive backlash against Gen. Fonseka for having let the side down by alleging that the army was guilty of a possible war crime in shooting dead in cold blood some tiger leaders who were surrendering with white flags after making prior arrangements for it through international channels.

On another level the General was also undermining his own claim that he and he alone was responsible for the war victory against the LTTE as Fonseka was now implicitly acknowledging that the Defence secretary was also directing affairs at the battlefront.

With the Rajapakse regime and its “Rottweilers” exploiting the situation and baying for Fonseka’s blood the general had to make a tactical retreat. He summoned a hasty press conference and stated that he had been misquoted by the newspaper.

The ex-army chief now vying for the presidency was relying to a very great extent on serving and retired soldiers and their families for political support. Casting aspersions on the army would badly affect this base.

Clarification

On December 20th “The Sunday Leader” published a clarification by Fonseka on the previous lead story. This is what it said-

“As Commander of the Army during the final stages of the war, I did not receive any communication that some LTTE leaders were planning or wanting to surrender.

I was not told at any stage they wanted to do so and that some kind of an agreement had been reached that they must come out carrying pieces of white cloth.

I can speak conclusively and authoritatively on this particular issue and say categorically that nobody carrying white flags attempted surrender in those final days of the war. Therefore all of the LTTE leaders were killed as forces completely took over a remaining 100m x 100m area of land north of Vellamullivaikkal.

Two days after the war ended I learnt through some journalists who were entrenched at the time with then Brigadier Shavendra Silva that an illegal order had been conveyed to General Shavendra Silva by Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

This illegal order was however not carried out at ground level. I take full responsibility for what happened on the ground.”

Shavendra Silva

In another interview with “Daily Mirror” online the General emphasized that Gotabaya Rajapaksa did try to contact junior officers in the Army and that he gave ’stupid’ instructions concerning the white flag and that these ’stupid’ instructions were however not carried out by the Army.

The innuendo in Fonseka’s accusation is that Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa ordered the Army to kill the LTTE leaders attempting to surrender with white flags.

While Fonseka was “flip-flopping” Maj-Gen Shavendra Silva who had been implicated by Gen. Fonseka as having allegedly killed the tiger surrendees was interviewed by “The Nation”.

Shavendra Silva issued a vehement denial to direct questions about the accusation against him and the 58 division.This is what he said-

Q: The allegation that the Sri Lanka Army shot dead a group of LTTE leaders who had come forward carrying white flags which was bandied about sometime ago has been raised again. We would like you, as a military officer who played an active role in the war on terrorism, to comment on this allegation.

A: I can speak only on behalf of the Division 58. I can categorically say that we never received a report saying that a group of white flag carrying LTTE leaders were gunned down by the troops. I saw newspaper reports carrying this allegation. I also read news reports which said that there was no truth in this allegation.

I feel sorry if an allegation of this nature has been made by a military officer. We carried out the tasks entrusted to us with commitment. In the circumstances, I can only say I deeply regret if such an allegation has been or is being made.

Q: Media reports also said that Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa had given you orders to shoot LTTE leaders if they come forward carrying white flags to surrender.

A: These reports are untrue. Beginning from the day on which the humanitarian operation was launched, Defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa kept repeating his instruction that we should avoid civilian casualties while carrying out the operations. We had this objective in view right throughout our operations. Therefore, I cannot imagine that the Defence Secretary would order shooting down anyone coming forward to surrender carrying a white flag. I can say with responsibility that I have never received instructions from him to shoot any civilian.

Philip Alston

Meanwhile Philip Alston, UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions has written to Amb. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations office at Geneva requesting information about alleged killing by the Sri Lankan Armed forces of LTTE leaders who surrendered.

Alston in his letter to Senewiratne said-

“It is my responsibility under the mandate provided to me by the Human Rights Council to seek to clarify all cases brought to my attention. Since I am expected to report on the death of Messrs. Nadeshan, Pulidevan and Ramesh, as well as of the members of their families, I would be grateful for the cooperation and observations of your Excellency’s Government. In particular in relation to the following questions:

1. Are the allegations summarized above accurate, If not so, please share the information and documents proving their inaccuracy.

2. What information does your Excellency’s Government have on the family members of Messrs. Nadeshan, Pulidevan and Ramesh allegedly killed on 18 May 2009.

3. Please refer to the results of my military, police, judicial and other inquiry or investigation carried out in relation to the allegations summarized above.

I undertake to ensure that your Excellency’s Government’s response to each of these questions is accurately reflected in the report I will submit to the Human Rights Council for its consideration.”

Heat and Light

Philip Alston’s pertinent query seeking more information about the fate that befell senior tiger leaders who surrendered is extremely relevant in the present situation where “heat” is generated about Sarath and Gotabhaya without any official “light” being shed on what actually transpired.

Ironically “The Sunday Leader” is now being sued by both Gotabhaya Rajapakse and Sarath Fonseka for the “offending” lead story.

It is against this backdrop that I want to focus to some extent on the events of that fateful period relating to the deaths of Nadesan, Pulidevan and others.

Though the lead story in “The Sunday Leader” of Dec 13th 2009 may have aroused passionate interest about the incident it was not something which went unreported during those days in May when “triumphalism” was holding sway.

I, myself referred to it in the article “The last days of Thiruvengadam Velupillai Prabhakaran” that appeared in the “Daily Mirror” of May 23rd 2009 and on this blog.

More than six months have passed since the killing of Nadesan ,Pulidevan and others. Some of us who have been researching the course of those events have been able to gather more information during this period.

Information

The information gathered is by no means comprehensive and may very well have some factual errors in the minor details. Given the difficulties one faces in this quest for truth I sometimes fret that the whole truth may never,ever be revealed.

Nevertheless I do feel that some of the information gathered should be publicised at this juncture though I would have very much preferred to wait until more details were available.

Despite the shortcomings it would indeed be appropriate to disclose some details now not only because the issue is topical but also to dispute the “evolving official” version that seeks to deny the entire incident.

Here then are some facts about what happened then in mid-May 2009

As events unfolded rapidly and the hard-pressed tigers fought a last ditch battle thousands of civilians and tiger cadres began surrendering. The armed forces were comparatively lenient in accommodating these surrenders until May 14th.

Surrendering

The 59 division led by Prasanna Silva, 58 div led by Shavendra Silva, 53 div led by Kamal Gunaratne and Task Force 8 led by Col Ravipriya had all accepted the surrendees and allowed them safe passage outside the battle zone.

Surrendees were asked to form two lines ,one for civilians and one for cadres and scrutinised before transportation

But the last few days saw fighting turn really fierce and the mood harden. The LTTE discarded uniforms and fought in civilian garb from among civilians.

On a few occasions tigers pretended to be surrendering civilians and then attacked. The LTTE also killed and injured hundreds of civilians and fellow cadres trying to flee.

Thus on May 15th,16th and 17th quite a few civilians and tiger cadres trying to surrender were shot dead.

This was more during the heat of the battle. The surrendering was in an ad-hoc manner and not well organized

At the same time the process of surrendering safely went on depending on the nature and mood of soldiers

Vellamullivaaikkaal

Once the 58 and 59 divisions linked up along the Mullivaaikkaal beach the tigers were sealed inside a small area of about three sq km. This was basically in the Vellamullivaaikkal area.

The remaining cadres devised a final, desperate plan to save Prabhakaran and other top leaders.

While one group was to remain defending until death another group was to try and break out of the military cordon in different formations. These formations included Prabhakaran, Pottu Amman and Soosai.

The third group was to negotiate terms of surrender and give themselves up to the army. The leaders of this group were political wing head Nadesan and peace secretariat chief Pulidevan.

This group was not directly involved in the fighting.

In the final phase the tigers had set up a makeshift hospital without basic facilties in the South-eastern parts of Vellamullivaaikkaal.

Nadesan, Pulidevan and some members of the political wing were staying adjacent to the makeshift hospital.

In addition there were many family members of tiger leaders and cadres.

Given the intensity of artillery shelling by the armed forces a very large number of non-combatants had sustained injuries. Many cadres too were injured.

Three points

It was estimated then that there were 1500-2000 person holed up in that area of whom around 1000-1200 had major and minor injuries. About 350-400 of these were tiger cadres.

Nadesan and Pulidevan along with the then LTTE head of international relations Selvarasah Pathmanathan alias KP had been involved in frantic efforts to negotiate a safe and honourable surrender .

The priority was to save the lives of these injured cadres and family members numbering close upon 2000.

Using satellite phones the trio had tapped into all their contacts trying hard for a UN sanctioned “laying down of arms” (euphemism for surrender) with guarantees of safety from the USA and Britain

Nadesan was emphasising three points as terms for laying down arms.

(Though a virtual surrender the LTTE was reluctant to call it that)

1. The LTTE wanted it to be UN supervised,

2. a guarantee of safety from the Americans and/or British:

3. an assurance that the Sri Lankan government would agree to a political process that guaranteed the rights of the Tamil nationality

Coup de grace

Among themselves the trio of KP, Nadesan and Pulidevan in a frantic bid to bring about a laying down of arms, contacted a vast array of personalities all over the globe ranging from friendly pro-LTTE legislators to journalists who had been critical of the LTTE.

Had these attempts been made months or even weeks earlier the results may have been different.

But now with the Sri Lankan armed forces poised to deliver the “coup de grace” to the hopelessly beleaguered LTTE there was no way in which the defence establishment was ready to allow an internationally sanctioned truce or laying down of arms.

Moreover the attempt to get international backing for a laying down of arms had a negative consequence.

The Government being paranoid about an international conspiracy to bring about a ceasefire and save the LTTE hierarchy was concerned that efforts could intensify in that direction if the fighting continued.

So the army was ordered to go ahead with military operations and batter the remaining tigers as quickly as possible.

This led to a no holds barred escalation in the military push.

Scant regard was paid to the lives and limbs of civilians as the army closed in for the kill.

Only Option

Under these circumstances Nadesan and Pulidevan realised that the odds were overwhelmingly against their request for a “laying down of arms” with international supervision and guarantees of safety.

The only option was to negotiate an honourable surrender to the Sri Lankan armed forces .Otherwise it was total annihilation.

With groups of tigers trying to break through the military cordon on the one hand and another group fighting a last ditch stand to delay the advancing army, this third group opted to surrender directly to the armed forces.

Nadesan being a cautious person tried to work out the modalities before surrendering but was firmly told to surrender first and work out the terms thereafter.

There was no choice other than to surrender unconditionally.

Many people were involved in this surrender effort of the tiger leaders.

Among these were cabinet ministers of two European countries, Envoys in Colombo of three western nations, two high-ranking officials of the UN, a well-known British journalist and two Parliamentarians from the Tamil National Alliance.

From the Government side those in the loop were President Mahinda Rajapakse, Presidential secretary Lalith Weeratunga, Defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse, Parliamentarian and Special adviser to the President Basil Rajapakse and then Foreign secretary Palitha Kohona.

Modalities

Many people including UN officials, international cabinet ministers,western diplomats and political representatives talked on behalf of tiger leaders to the Sri Lankan political leaders and influential govt officials to facilitate the surrender.

It must be noted that none of the LTTE leaders spoke directly to the Govt side about this crucial issue. More importantly the army top brass was not informed of this “surrender” plan until the penultimate stages.

After protracted discussions the tiger leaders were told to walk slowly towards army positions with raised white flags. Only a small number was asked to come out first.

It was said that after making contact with the army officers on ground the modalities of bringing out the remaining persons both injured and uninjured could be worked out.

The tiger leaders were also given a rough route to follow. This led to positions manned by the 58 division commanded by Shavendra Silva. Both the 59 commanded by Prasanna Silva and the 58 were in the Vellamullivaaikkaal area.

But the tigers preferred to surrender to the 58 rather than 59 as they felt the former was more humane or less brutal.

Vijay Nambiar

A final bid was made by the tigers to get Vijay Nambiar, UN chief of staff to Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon to be on the spot to witness the surrender. But this was rejected as unnecessary by Nambiar who said President Rajapakse himself had assured him of tiger safety.

British journalist Marie Colvin has gone on record that she had woken up Vijay Nambiar then in Colombo at about 5.30 am (Lanka time) to ask about the surrender.

This is the relevant extract from Colvin’s article in the London Times-

“Once more, the UN 24-hour control centre in New York patched me through to Nambiar in Colombo, where it was 5.30am on Monday. I woke him up.

I told him the Tigers had laid down their arms. He said he had been assured by Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan president, that Nadesan and Puleedevan would be safe in surrendering. All they had to do was “hoist a white flag high”, he said.

I asked Nambiar if he should not go north to witness the surrender. He said no, that would not be necessary: the president’s assurances were enough.

It was still late Sunday night in London. I tried to get through to Nadesan’s satellite phone but failed, so I called a Tigers contact in South Africa to relay Nambiar’s message: wave a white flag high.”

Chandranehru Chandrakanthan MP

Another person who played a crucial role in trying to ensure the safe surrender of Nadesan and others was TNA national list MP Chandranehru Chandrakanthan.

He too acted as intermediary between the Govt and LTTE and had even wanted to be physically present at the point of surrender. But President Rajapakse had said it was unnecessary.

Marie Colvin

Here is an extract from Marie Colvin’s article about Rohan Chandranehru Chandrakanthan’s role-

“I discovered that on Sunday night Nadesan had also called Rohan Chandra Nehru, a Tamil MP in the Sri Lankan parliament, who immediately contacted Rajapaksa.

The MP recounted the events of the next hours: “The president himself told me he would give full security to Nadesan and his family. Nadesan said he had 300 people with him, some injured.

“I said to the president, ‘I will go and take their surrender.’

“Rajapaksa said, ‘No, our army is very generous and very disciplined. There is no need for you to go to a warzone. You don’t need to put your life at risk’.”

Chandra Nehru said Basil, the president’s brother, called him. “He said, ‘They will be safe. They have to hoist a white flag.’ And he gave me the route they should follow.”

The MP got through to Nadesan at about 6.20am local time on Monday. The sound of gunfire was louder than ever.

“We are ready,” Nadesan told him. “I’m going to walk out and hoist the white flag.”

“I told him: ‘Hoist it high, brother-they need to see it. I will see you in the evening’,” said Chandra Nehru”

Machaan

This account by Colvin of Chandranehru’s tele-conversation with Nadesan is substantiated by the information I received from another close associate of Nadesan.

This person attached to a western university was in touch with Nadesan barely a few minutes before dawn on Monday May 18th.

Mahendran or Nadesan addressing him as “Machaan” said that they had made white flags out of “verti” and would be holding it very high (Nallaa thookki pidippom)

Nadesan however had been very uneasy about the surrender plan. He had told his friend that he could not trust the government or the army and that he felt they were all doomed.” saranadainju saahirathai vida kuppi adikkalaam poley irukku” (I feel its better to take cyanide than surrender and die)he had said.

Still Nadesan had to follow the surrender option as the intention was to save the lives of injured tigers and civilians and surviving family members comprising men,women and children of tiger leaders and cadres.

While the tigers prepared themselves to surrender to the 58 division fate was playing a cruel hand.

Former Army commander Sarath Fonseka was in China from May 10th to 17th but the then Lt. Gen was constantly in touch with his ground commanders and defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse.

Though physically away from the Country Fonseka was very much in command of his troops, monitoring and directing from afar.

Special Forces

One such act by Fonseka from far-off China was the induction of the special forces regiment into the Mullivaaikkaal battlefront. The Special Forces were deployed alongside the 59 led by Prasanna Silva.

The Special Forces regiment was commanded then by Col. Athula Kodipilli. It consists of multiple battalions assigned specialty tasks. Each battalion is broken up into 150 man units called squadrons.

Of the Special Force battalions 1-SF led by Maj. Mahinda Ranasinghe and 2-SF led by Maj. Vipulathilake Ihalage were deployed in the Mullivaaikkaal area.

In an ironic twist of fate the LTTE leaders intending to surrender to the 58 division fell into the hands of the special forces operating in Soth-east Mullivaaikkaal before reaching their avowed destination

A tiny group of 12-15 led by Nadesan and Pulidevan had gone first followed by a second group of 35-40 at a distance. They were all unarmed and carrying white flags.

“Col” Ramesh

White Flags

Nadesan and Pulidevan carried aloft two huge white flags. Both groups comprised men, women and children.

Within the second group were former LTTE special commander for Amparai-Batticaloa districts “Col” Ramesh. He had been commanding tiger units in the Wanni war and had been injured earlier.

Along with Ramesh was Ilango the LTTE police chief. He had succeeded Nadesan

Nadesan and Pulidevan wanted to establish contact with senior military officials first and negotiate the modalities of bringing out the others in stages.

Nadesan’s Sinhala wife hailing from the Ruhuu also was in the first group to help with Sinhala interpretation if required.

It was past day-break now and the small groups of stragglers with white flags were clearly visible. Soon they were surrounded by Special Force personnel who took the first group to their officers in the vicinity.

The second group following nearly a hundred yards behind were ordered to remain where they were with white flags held high with both hands.

Nadesan’s group had ony to walk a very short distance to reach the command post.

Cold Blood

Nadesan and Pulidevan identified themselves and stated they were surrendering in term of an agreement worked out with President Rajapakse

Upon hearing this the SF officers got Nadesan and Pulidevan to kneel down and began interrogating them.

The others were taken to a side and asked to kneel down.

Even as the “interrogation” was going on some of the SF personnel began uttering threats in Sinhala and started brandishing firearms.

Nadesan’s wife realised that they were planning to shoot both in cold blood and started screaming in Sinhala that they should not kill people who surrendered with white flags.

Suddenly there were bursts of fire. Nadesan and Pulidevan slumped to the ground their bodies riddled with bullets.

As Nadesan’s wife screamed and tried to run to her husband , she too was shot down with a few men shouting that she was a treacherous bitch and prostitute for marrying a “kotiya” (tiger)

A few shots were fired into the remaining members of the group too but it was stopped on the orders of superior officers. The few survivors were bundled out of the place

Assault

When the Ramesh-Ilango led second group of 35-40 following behind saw what was happening they simply started running back.

A few SF personnel gave chase firing on the fleeing men,women and children and commanding them to stop.Many were hit and fell.

Thereafter the Special Forces moved forward and launched an assault on the tiny enclave where the remaining people were staying.

Some of the injured cadres put up a last ditch stand fighting with dwindling ammunition. They were reportedly led by Ramesh and Ilango who died a heroic death facing fearful odds

Many consumed cyanide or blew themselves up with grenades. Many people were shot dead or blown up with grenades by the Special Force personnel.

Despite this whole-sale massacre by sections of the SF personnel some other soldiers also saved the lives of people numbering a few hundred.

Squadrons

According to unconfirmed reports four SF squadrons were active in the vicinity of Mullivaaikkaal when the Nadesan-Pulidevan incident occurred.

They were the Golf squad under Capt. Chaminda Gunasekera , Romeo squad under Capt.Kavinda Abeywardene, Echo squad led by Maj. Kosala Wijekone and Delta squad led by Capt. Lasantha Ratnasekera.

The Golf and Romeo squads were from 1SF while theEcho and Delta squads were from 2SF

This then is the summary of what happened to Nadesan, Pulidevan and the remaining persons who wanted to surrender to the armed forces.

I would have liked to get some more details before publishing this account. But I decided to go ahead with available information because of the moves in certain quarters to deny that such an incident ever took place

Fait accompli

It is indeed cruelly ironic that while thousands of tiger cadres and leaders were able to surrender safely to the armed forces these surrendees were shot dead in cold blood by special force personnel.

What makes this incident deplorable is that the killing was not done in the heat of the battle. What makes it bad is the fact that elaborate planning had gone into the surrender effort with international involvement but to no avail. What makes it worse is that assurances of safety were reportedly provided by President Rajapakse himself.

According to a highly placed source in the defence establishment the defence secretary had informed 58 division commander Shavendra Silva beforehand that some tiger leaders may surrender and if that happens the surrender was to be accepted and safety guaranteed.

The source also said that Gotabhaya Rajapakse had told Sarath Fonseka of the proposed surrender plans by telephone at 3.30 am on Monday May 18th.

Hours later when the Defence secy had contacted the Army chief to find out what happened he learnt that “it was all over”. While the Govt had agreed to a surrender the Army had presented it with a “fait accompli”.

In that context it is perplexing at best and irritating at worst to see the ex- army chief trying to draw across a red herring by initially blaming Gotabhaya and Shavendra for the incident and subsequently changing his story.

Volte-face

I do not wish to be drawn into that controversy but it does seem to appear notwithstanding the ex-army chief’s volte face that Fonseka is insinuating that the 58 division acting under Gotabhayas “:illegal” orders executed the surrendees in cold blood.

While implicitly blaming Gota and Shavendra, Sarath seems to be trying to score by denying that such an incident ever happened and that he would stand by his men under any circumstances.

It does seem chicanery of the despicable sort for a man to turn around and blame the wrong guys when almost any high-ranking military officer in Sri Lanka knows that the special forces bumped off Nadesan and Pulidevan.

In a sense Fonseka is putting Gotabhaya Rajapakse and Shavendra Silva on the spot as he knows that both at this juncture cannot reveal who was responsible for the killing.

However it does seem that in his anger against Gotabhaya Sarath has shot himself in the foot by tacitly admitting that some tiger leaders had indeed been killed in cold blood.

Responsibility

Though he is now trying to do some damage control by denying that he ever said it and is threatening to sue “The Sunday Leader” the damage apparently has been done.

It must be remembered that Sarath Fonseka had referred to tigers carrying white flags being executed long before the current furore. Fonseka addressing a meeting in Ambalangoda in July had stated so. That fact has now been recorded for posterity in the US State dept report.

Interestingly Fonseka’s “noble” pronouncement that he would be assuming full responsibility for an incident that he says did not happen amounts to making a virtue out of necessity.

The simple fact of command responsibility is that as the Army chief of that time Sarath Fonseka is indeed responsible for many acts of omission and commission by his officers and soldiers.

Likewise the responsibility can go right up all the way to the President via the Defence secretary.

Apart from a few scoundrels masquerading as patriots almost every Sri Lankan knows that many acts amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity have occurred during this war particularly in the last stages.

Both the LTTE and govt forces were responsible. While the LTTE hierarchy is no more the Govt pretends it did not happen and is in a state of simulated denial

Established

The problem in the case of the Nadesan-Pulidevan incident is that too many people are aware that a surrender was agreed upon and that gurantees of safety were provided by the commander-in-chief of the armed forces himself.

From the UN to individual countries like the USA, Britain and Norway that fact has been established firmly.

It is also a widely accepted fact that something had gone wrong either accidentally or deliberately in the proposed surrender because the would be surrendees are not among the living.

What exactly went wrong may seem a little hazy at present but there is no doubt that something has gone terribly wrong.

Wittingly or unwittingly Sarath Fonseka has opened up a can of worms. He may dispute he ever said what he reportedly stated and deny that it ever happened but the issue is now widely debated.

Likewise Fonseka’s detractors may blame him for creating an unnecessary controversy but the fact remains that the incident of cold-blooded killing will not go away or be wished away.

Questions

Given the scale of international participation in the surrender episode and its widespread ramifications the Colombo regime cannot afford to be complacent.

It would indeed be galling for a regime riding a triumphalist wave to admit openly that its soldiers could be guilty of a war crime.

However bitter it may be the best option for the Govt is to conduct a credible,transparent probe into the incident.

There are many unasked and unanswered questions.

What went wrong? Why did this group get shot despite pre-planning a surrender while thousands of ad-hoc surrendees are safe and sound? Had Colombo genuinely agreed to the surrender or was there an ulterior motive?Was there a break-down in communications between the high command and field command? Was there a sinister motive by the former army chief to teach the Defence secretary a lesson for agreeing to a surrender without consulting him? Were the special forces behaving recklessly as tigers had been attacking the army while pretending to be civilians?

These are but some of the queries needing answers.

Nemesis

One cannot expect the govt to conduct an inquiry of this type at a time when the Presidential elections are on. But it does have to act very soon in a credible manner.

This incident is too big for the Govt to ignore or deny responsibility. It has the potential to become a major issue as human rights organizations continue to exert pressure.

If and when that happens all the “friends” shielding this nation in international fora may be helpless as events take their own course.

Nemesis may follow Hubris!

DBS Jeyaraj can be reached at dbsjeyaraj@yahoo.com

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519 Comments Add your own

  • 1. Ramalingam  |  December 28th, 2009 at 10:42 pm

    Thanks Mr.Jeyaraj for revealing details of this horrible incident.

    Both Balasingham Mahendran and his father “Trotsky” Balasingham were very well known to me.They were amiable, well-connected people. One of Mahendran (Nadesan)fathers brothers was vice-principal at St.Johns College,Jaffna where I studied

    Another of Mahendran’s brothers was also in the LTTE with the nickname Lucas

    I wonder where he is now?

  • 2. Waruna  |  December 28th, 2009 at 10:57 pm

    You have vividly described all what happened in another brilliant article DBS

    Thank you for that

    I hate the LTTE and all what they did. I care two hoots for Nadesan and Puli.

    But there are rules and civilised codes in fighting even terrorists.

    You cant ask people to surrender with white flags and then shoot them dead in cold blood

    I endorse what DBS says that govt must have credible probe into incident and punish guity ones

  • 3. Gloria Abraham  |  December 28th, 2009 at 11:18 pm

    Mr.Jeyaraj has come out with a timely, apt article

    I agree that some are trying to deny the obvious and saying that the incident never happened

    Thanks to DBS we have something solid to rely on

    I feel very sorry for Nadesan’s Singala wife. How difficult it must have been for her to live in the vanni with the tigers

    and now she is killed by her own people

    what a tragedy

    I feel sorry for their children

  • 4. Ravana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:30 am

    All I can say is that Geneva Conventions and the like apply to those who abide by the acceptable norms of warfare.
    Those who planned and executed the cold blooded massacres ( and I mean it in the plural) of unarmed totally innocent civillians, don’t deserve to be considered under these conventions.

    If it happened or not and the hows and whens we do not know but the WHY is very clear !

  • 5. Dave D ALwis  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:56 am

    Whoever, killed them, they did a good job by killing these terrorists. They are not deserved to live. it was right thing wiped out the entire cancer… not only part of it.

    Anyway last phase of the war happened in the dark and no one can see white flags also many times LTTE carders came with white flags and blew them selves. so… what the SLA should do…?

    Warfare with brain washed terrorists are not the same warfare with a conventional army. UN has no right to intervene to this matter, it is between a war with a legitimate Govt and a terrorist organisation which banned in many UN member nations.

  • 6. Voltaire  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:08 am

    There is an old adage: “those who live by the sword die by the sword”.

  • 7. Rukshan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:12 am

    Thank you sir for wake us up again……

  • 8. Ajith Boralugoda  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:28 am

    Hi! Jeyaraj,

    Thanks for the detailed write-up.
    I am sure if there is smoke there is fire!!!
    But can this be established beyond reasonable doubt without any independent EYE-WITNESS reporting?
    Its just like somebody these days claiming the t the Ranjan Wijerathne ordered the Army guys to put Wijeweera into the cremator at Borella cemetory alive,!!!!!
    How sad and grief stricken his little kids and wife to hear that.?
    I am just trying to point out the same or more Sinhala Youths and JVP guys
    deaths going un noticed in these UN and other worldly bodies.
    There was no frantic efforts to save them either.
    The sad truth is all issues can be of convenience in the realm of Politics!!!

    -aj

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    There are eye-witnesses and if a credible probe is done more details will certainly emerge.

  • 9. kevin  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:31 am

    I simply cannot understand Sarath Fonseka. If this truly happened it is so disgraceful and shameful. This is as low as a human can go. I have absolutely no respect for Sarath Fonseka. I pray to god for the sake of our unborn children please don’t let this cruel man become the leader of my country. I think lot Sri Lankans have not seen this dark side of Sarath Fonseka. God Bless Sri Lanka!

  • 10. Matt  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:41 am

    when LTTE was killing innocent people in cold blood why no one cared to speek up? specially international community, US , UK or UN. So the plan was to let them surrender and give them some breathing space so they can reorganise and start killing people?
    you have to illiminate those idiots. else others cant live peasefully.
    let the Geneva Conventions be there. terrorists mst be illiminated.

    What are Geneva conventions for then?An ornamental parchment like our Constitution?…………DBSJ

  • 11. wijaya  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:41 am

    Everyone forgot LTTE’s kiling machines. They killed many innocent people in cold blooded from Petteah bomb to Piliyandala bus bomb. All nadesan, Ramesh Pulidevan gave various explanations and aproved Praba’s killing machines. Did they think about any civilian?. All pundits are silent when they kill innocents. Why now talk about wite flag? for what?. All they worried about their loving son, Prabakaran’s death?

    Hey buddy!It was Sarath Fonseka and not Tamils who raised the white flag issue again………..DBSJ

  • 12. ballo  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:42 am

    WHY ARE YOU WRITING ARTICLES TO SUPPORT RAJAPAKSAS CAMPAIGN? are you paid by them?

    No but are you paid by Fonseka campaign to post comments like these “doggie”(Ballo)Boy?………DBSJ

  • 13. Little Bird  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:46 am

    Thanks for the long bedtime story. More thanks for skipping the scary parts… that the ’surrendering’ terrorrists indeed fired upon the unsuspecting soldiers… and managed to dozens of them, using the ‘white flags’…

    Can you imagine the scene?

    Please dont imagine like this. You’ll have nightmares. Thanks to my bedtime story sleep well…………DBSJ

  • 14. dayan jayatilleka  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:48 am

    During Gulf War 1, US Chief of Staff Colin Powell gave the Iraqi units in Kuwait a deadline to evacuate. When those units were pulling out and on the road to Basra, they were bombed relentlessly by A 10 ‘Warthogs’ and the dead and dying were bulldozed into open graves. Many were buried alive. All this is well documented.

    But them yanks dont have Mahinda chinthana like us no?……………..DBSJ

  • 15. Sarath  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:55 am

    What a great fairy tale story……nothing will happen at the end.

    Kudos to Gotha & Satharh!

  • 16. David Blacker  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:57 am

    I’m afraid I am of the same viewpoint as Ravana when it comes to the Tiger top brass. If they had surrendered even weeks before, they would have saved the lives of thousands of Tamil civilians, LTTE fighters, and SL Army soldiers. Instead, like Hitler, they callously clung to power, squandering the lives of many until surrender seemed the only way to save their own miserable hides.

    I am all for the Geneva Conventions being applied to the civilians and the fighting troops of the LTTE, but I have no sympathy for their brass and their terror apparatus. They, like the Nazi high command, got everything they deserved. It is unfortunate that the families of these men and women must suffer too, but that is life. They would have had privileged lives while the Tigers were in power, and when you back the wrong horse, you lose.

    The battlefield is a confusing place, and I wonder whether we’ll ever know if the SF was under orders to execute Pullidevan and Nadesan, or whether they just happened to come across them. Either way, the SF and Commandos are highly disciplined, elite troops and don’t act recklessly. However, individual enterprise is encouraged in these units to a higher degree than in line units, so who knows.

    I too suspect that the SF was carrying out orders from the top. But whose?………….DBSJ

  • 17. Sathiyaraj  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:00 am

    DBS,

    What are you trying to do posting those barbaric terrorists in nice cloths. I have seen them in tiger uniform carrying guns. They are the LTTE leadership. They had enough time to surrender earlier. Those cold blooded killers are deserved to die. That was not a conventional war. Geneva convention doesn’t apply to them. As you mentioned,tigers fought as pretended to be surrendering civillins. They shot carrying white flags. They blew them self up pretending to be surrendering. Why anyone waste their time for war crime inquiry if they didn’t protect tamil and sinhalse civilians from tigers all these years.

    What’s your problem? Dont you like civilian clothes or do you have a fetish for uniforms?………DBSJ

  • 18. Viraj Eknanigoda  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am

    Dear Writer

    I am asking a simple question from the writer of this article.

    Did these so-called white flag bearers carry the white falgs when they blew up buses, trains, pucblic places full of innocent civillians (whether Sinhalaese or tamils) for the last 30 years? Please answer this simple question?

    A simple question from the writer of this article to the person who posted this comment. Do the armed forces bear white flags when they bomb or shell civilian dwellings?…………….DBSJ

  • 19. Vallu Praba  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:24 am

    Hey Rmamalingam

    Those Nadesan brothers must definitely be with Vellu Annai in the hell for the merits that they collected during the last 30 years.

    Nee Poda podiyan

  • 20. hem  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:25 am

    Gov of srilanka did the right thing. LTTE distroyed srilanka for many year, they killed so many innocent people in cold blood.

    this is too good for LTTEs to die

    But thousands of tigers were allowed to surrender safely by the SL govt no?……………DBSJ

  • 21. Jay Ray  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:28 am

    The LTTE killed over 600 Policemen who surrended to them in Jaffna a few years ago contrary to an agreement to surrender agreement reached with the Former President Premadasa. Also what about the thousands of men wormen and children hacked to death by the LTTE?

    The man who ordered execution of 600 cops is now a minister in Mahindas govt………….DBSJ

  • 22. Dananjaya Bandara Dissanayake  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:34 am

    Many thanks David,
    This shows the pathetic nature of our armed forces.Many of like incidents must have happened. It seems that MR was out of control of his own army as the commander in chief.
    He is out of control of his cabinet as well.
    Most probably SF him self is the culprit who must have given orders to kill.
    Did VP surrender and was killed as well?

    No VP did not surrender……………DBSJ

  • 23. Viraj Eknaligoda  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:36 am

    Dear Writer

    Could you please answer the following simple questions?

    Did those so-called white flag bearers carry the white flags when they blew up buses trains, and public places packed with innocent civilian (whether tamils or sinhalase) for the last 39 years?

    Awaiting your answer to my simple question……………..DBSJ

  • 24. S. Jayawardene  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:55 am

    Nobody talks about the brutal attacks tigers carried on innocent children, passengers and the unarmed. They deserve such an end

    What “end” do you have in mind for the 12,000 plus tigers in custody now?……………DBSJ

  • 25. susantha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:57 am

    1.When Govenment forces killed JVP leader & 60,000 youths during 1971 & 1988/89 UN & EU contries were sleeping??Why they didnt take action about those killings?
    2.When LTTE were killing political leaders(Including Tamils)and unarmed civilians during past 30 years what was the action taken by UN & EU contries aganist LTTE

    Only Karuna,Pillaiyan or Weerawansa can answer you Susantha……………DBSJ

  • 26. Matt  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:09 am

    Nice Fairy tale by the way

    Always happy to humour kids like you…………..DBSJ

  • 27. avi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:09 am

    This issue has no legs beyond January 2010. Although this
    whole incident is ” too bad and too sad” , this is the end result of holding a entire nation as hostages for nearly 30 years by bunch of ruthless and savage terrorists who were financed by the pro-LTTE diaspora just to satisfy their hatred. Now they have to blame nobody other than themselves for getting the LTTE to blow up decent human beings like Dr. Neelan Thiruchelvam into pieces who could have offered so much not only for Tamils but also all for all Srilankans.

  • 28. mohamed hamid  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:10 am

    Thanks DBS for writing in detail of this incident,

    The tamil diaspora has a nother duty by exercising there votes for president Mahinda Rajapaksa,

    so that they will get alot more than what they have lost for the past 30 to 40yrs,

    Sarath Fonseka remarks about the minorities in sri lanka sometime back proves that he is responsible in kiling all who surendered to the army, and he is a person who wanted to take revenge for the atack on him by a suicide bomber,
    and also planed to takeover this country with the opasition and now he is runing for presidency again to take reveange as he was sidelined by our President.

    we want a President who will do good for our country, and the track record of Mahinda Rajapakse proves that,

    we dont want militry generals ruling our country.

  • 29. Brave Sri Lankan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:13 am

    Hey Punde Andi DBS

    Come and face me like a man you coward!

    OK you “Brave” man.Lets start with your real name first…………….DBSJ

  • 30. avi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:13 am

    This issue has no legs beyond January 2010. Although this
    whole incident is ” too bad and too sad” , this is the end result of holding a entire nation as hostages for nearly 30 years by bunch of ruthless and savage terrorists who were financed by the pro-LTTE diaspora just to satisfy their hatred. Now they have to blame nobody other than themselves for getting the LTTE to blow up decent human beings like Dr. Neelan Thiruchelvam into pieces who could have offered so much not only for Tamils but also for all Srilankans.

  • 31. Chintha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:15 am

    Hey Jayaraj

    Thanks for the good article; I always appreciate rich and quality journalism, as usual you are upto the mark. Having said that, it’s surprising to see how the world is crying about Nadeshan’s and Pulidevan’s death, letters from UN, EU, US. Etc, and resolution in Security Council.

    I really don’t understand some times this world, these drama wasn’t in the action when LTTE is killing civilians and Nadeshsan/Pulidevan justifying these in UN and international media, and funny part is the same Devil’s advocate expecting to save his life by simple waving a white flag and entire world expecting that correct way to save the life of a brutal terrorist

    I really don’t want to comment on SF, he is just subcontinent man who’s using any opportunity to gain power. If Barak Obama can use his, Color code as the tool to get attention, so why not SF?

  • 32. Brave Sri Lankan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:19 am

    Sarath fonseka better than mahinda rajapakshe.

  • 33. Sarath wickramakalutota  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:30 am

    Dear Mr Jayaraj,

    it is almost obvious that your sympathy on LTTE, I am a fan of your articles and most of the time you are exposed your real face,you may have forgotten LTTE’s blood thirsty approach,, they killed innocent people in cold blooded in thousands,are you aware,, that the fate of 700 police men who surrounded to LTTE in premada’s time? what happen to them? what happens to so called human rights associations? Geneva convention etc,,, not to forget nadesan and company are terrorists, I do think forced were taken the right decision,

    You should ask Karuna about the 600 cops who surrendered………………DBSJ

  • 34. Ramesh P  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:31 am

    Unless your sources are from the military, the entire section titled ‘Cold Blood’ is pure speculation, or entirely fictional.

    According to your own accounts, there were no survivors to witness the killings barring the army.

    Most of your garbage is swallowed whole by the naive. That, however, is your intended target audience.

    You must indeed be naive to think there were no survivors………………DBSJ

  • 35. Andrew Pieris  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:34 am

    There are contradictions between DBSJ’s account and the account of Marie Colvin on what happenned. According to Ms Colvin they were shot while comimg to surrender and not after they surrendered. Clearly either Ms Colvin or Mr DBSJ’s versions (or both) are wrong.

    The LTTE killed thousands of Sinhalese and Muslim civilians in cold blood. We need not be bothered about how these terrorists died. They deserve what they got.

    Colvin wrote in May. I wrote in December Sherlock……………DBSJ

  • 36. dinuka  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:34 am

    Dear Jeyraj,

    If LTTE ’s so-called “leaders” were murdered in cold blood- what about the mass murder of 68 innocent Buddhist Female Pilgrims wearing none other than WHITE sarees & dress on their way to a Buddhist Temple in Dambulla by the LTTE ????

    Were they not wearing WHITE clothing which is equal to the WHITE flags, which have now become on obessession with TIGER TERRORIST supporters ?

    Those 68 pilgrims were on their way to a temple, & not walking thru a battle-field !!! Where was your sympathy when they were massacred by LTTE ?

    This shows where your ONE-SIDED sympathies are- Please prove to me that you are not a tiger supporter by carrying a special article on the above killing of 68 people wearing white clothing by LTTE .

    tks.
    Dinuka

    Aney Dinuka. Go and read all my articles first before commenting………….DBSJ

  • 37. Japan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:37 am

    Great article, well analyzed and summarized.

    This is a crystal clear incident that makes us re-think about “KARMA”＝”What you do comes back to you”　/ “You reap what you sow.”. Shot to death is a luxury form of death for these barbarian inhuman, LTTE leaders, who destroyed our nation for last three decades. Central bank bomb, Bomb at temple of tooth relic, massacre of Aranthalawa and other Sinhala villages to name few.

    Its hard to find a single person in Sri Lanka who has NOT grieved upon a loss of loved one because of the LTTE curse. I wish all the leaders were hanged and cut piece by piece to death giving them ample of time to re-think what they have done for last three decades.

    But some of these”Barbarians”are ministers in this govt no?……….DBSJ

  • 38. Sarath wickramakalutota  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:46 am

    Dear Mr Jayaraj,

    it is almost obvious that your sympathy on LTTE, I am a fan of your articles and most of the time you are exposed your real face,you may have fogotten LTTE’s blood thirsty approach,, they killed innocent people in cold blooded in thousands,are you aware,, that the fate of 700 police men who surrounded to LTTE in premada’s time? what happen to them? what happens to so called human rights associations? Geneva convention etc,,, not to forget nadesan and company are terrorists, I do think forced were taken the right decision,

    Why are you posting again and again.Take a break will you?…………..DBSJ

  • 39. srikiantha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:50 am

    what will happend any one join with terrorist.They are good people for their family.But for general people they are terrorist.any wy they should killed by law

  • 40. sol  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:52 am

    Hi Jeyaraj

    where did u get this information. if this is true u suoud not be wasting ur time writing columns. go before un as a withness and give evidence mate.

    were this ltte had any clothes on them, shames less murderrs. only humans need be teadted as humanley

    Let the UN begin its probe.Sarath will give eevidence I think……………DBSJ

  • 41. Gamini  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:00 am

    Dear Jeyaraj

    What you said could be very well true. But isn’t it expected? “Those who live by the swod or support it directly or indirectly should also die by it ”

    What is the difference between hanging a person after a trial (When its outcome is predetermined and backed by powerful nations as the case of Saddam) and shooting a person in cold blood(Surendering could mean, subsequent interference from these powerful nations for their vested interests?).

    Its logical to finish them off once and for all. (Only the top leaders, and use others who were lucky to survive and surrender for your strategic advantage as its done now ).

    Human rights claims are part and parcel of a war ravanged country and you need not worry at all. What could the UN do about Al Basheer of Sudan and Israel? Absolutely nothing and life goes on, though there will be pressure from time to time and we shall tacle it.and not a major issue, compared to bigger problems the country faced.

    The bottom line is the country is free from terrorism and the LTTE is crushed and we are grateful for the political leadership and the military, who made it happen.

  • 42. Mahasen Rajakaruna  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:00 am

    DBSJ….. well done and congratulations!!!

  • 43. Asitha Gamage  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:07 am

    DBSJ, Your facts are credible. From your narrative it looks like SF wanted to run the show his own way against Gota’s instructions which were “to allow surrendees safe passage”. On the contrary if Gota had instructed the Special Forces, 58th and 59th Regiments to kill the surrendees, then SF would have ordered his commanders not to shoot the surrendees! What a rotten sod!! Issarahata Giyoth Johnnie; Passata Giyoth Fonie!!!

    Anyway, DBSJ I thinks we will all have to gorgive and forget all these just like the British Governor ordered the wholesale massacre of all Sinhala males above 14 years in the Uva Wellassa region only some 150 years ago during the height of the British civilisation and power. Any chance of FRs and HR violations being prosecuted at the Hague for that? Besides, the western plot against the democratic country’s sovereignity will be subject to great scrutiny at such an inquiry and the role of the international Fourth Estate would be an uneraseable scar with much discredit to journals of “repute” like the Times of London.

  • 44. Mahasen Rajakaruna  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:15 am

    DBS ……………..well done and congratulations..

  • 45. jane hart  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:17 am

    jeraj.Thank god all the nurderers were killed.All their supporters shoul be taken to task as well.

    Does this include Karuna and Pillaiyan also?………………DBSJ

  • 46. velu  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:25 am

    realpolitik, the past is behind us. genuine tamils must unite with all other srilankans to build the future. This chapter in srilankan history is closed. All the LTTE survivors get one mre chance to live and not kill or plan to kill

  • 47. jayathilaka  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:25 am

    Those who point fingers at the government for killing the leaders of LTTE specially the western
    countries should not forget that when the political leaders,relegious leaders ,ordinary citizens,children so on and so forth of both tamils and sinhalese are killed by the LTTE they kept dead silent and turned their blind eye.Now they are trying to find fault with the way how those LTTE leaders were killed.Why are they so curious about the way how those leaders were killed ? why aren”t they worried about how the TALIBAN or AL-QUEDA leaders been killed by them in the same manner?

    Bingo!……DBSJ

  • 48. Suds  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:31 am

    As some other comments have pointed out, why is all this concern displayed by the author about how a bunch of murderous terrorists met with their death when there are thousands of innocent people who have died as a result of their actions. The world is a better place today since they are gone and it doesn’t matter so much how they died. (On the other hand, if someone were talking about innocent civilians, it would be a different matter.)

    You should ask Sarath Fonseka and Philip Alston ……………..DBSJ

  • 49. LTTE leaders who surrende&hellip  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:32 am

    [.] LTTE leaders who surrendered were killed by Army Special Forces [.]

  • 50. srikiantha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:36 am

    How many innocent women and children kilied by sword and throw infant up and hold the sword for coming down the infant.thats the way they make joy of their life.(Go to the past news paper-civilian explain how they escape and telling wht they saw)This way of killing of the ruthless people.are not enough.can not say how to kill them.Anyway party is over.thanks for Sl army

    So all “ruthless”people should be killed. How ruthless of you……….DBSJ

  • 51. Athula  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:40 am

    SF and military officers did their job and they had enough bad memories of this lot.Even every soldier and every Sri Lankan who loved peace wanted an end to this. SF or MR will win the election.

    I am pretty sure neither of them will betray each other and both will live in our hearts regardless who wins or loses.I do not regret a bit who killed them because they ruined this country by stupidity.Now all we Sinhalese, Tamils and others will need to look for future harmony .Gone were the days with the wind.Not only these people lost their lives how many soldiers and civilians were blown off ,how many monks and innocent old people who were at Sri Maha bhodi were shot in cold blood.

    Where was the justice for those ????.Who ordered those kills??.Who ever who gave orders to carry out those attacks had to be died the same way.Thats Gods punishment.No second thought about that.We need to close this chapter and no body would be able to be punished I know for a fact.Only time will tell .

    Nobody’s going to be punished.I think so too………….DBSJ

  • 52. Piyal F'do  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:42 am

    Well DBSJ there is a great difference between knowing the truth and telling a story as truth, only to make a name out of it. The sinister move is very clear in the timing of the article (whatever the justifications given to that end). I read your articles with interest and more than not they are great stories that all other experts don’t manage to fathom. The author betray himself and his portayed-cause by “revealing” the episodes now and not when it really mattered. Why now? is the golden question. Is the cause served only now or is it a way to make a name out for himself with such journalism. The author is surely difended by the facts that these revalations of his cannot be verified and will remain in the fancy of the individual reader. I hope the readers are intelligent.

    Piyal, most readers are intelligent but for a few pseudo-intellectuals………..DBSJ

  • 53. Govirala  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:43 am

    Good try to depict two hardcore Terrorists as Colombo based Merchant Bankers.

    Yet the contents exonerate Shavendra Silva.Fonseka is nothing but a jealous.greedy and vindictive soul. who will go to any length t to take revenge.

    Sunday leader and Lankaenew are only two publications who support him. Now he is suing the former for half a billion Rupees. What a joker!.

    Why, Do you have a problem with Colombo based merchant bankers?………….DBSJ

  • 54. Mahasen Rajakaruna  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:53 am

    I didn’t realise that you edit comments (which had no profanity or offensive language).. Very unfortunate..

    Profanity&offensive language are not the only criteria for editing…………….DBSJ

  • 55. Curious  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:57 am

    How did the Chief die – was he also killed in cold blood or did he die in combat?

    He died on the battlefront but the forehead was axed as he lay dead …………..DBSJ

  • 56. singhee  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:58 am

    dear jeyaraj, thans for your comments.did they killed with white flags or cold blooded red flags we dont care how many they killed thire owe people and inocent pregnant women’ infeants in rural vilages what UN did then who give a shit mr free the brave tamil frim getting killed

    A lot of people do give a shit about how they were killed…………….DBSJ

  • 57. JEM D  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:03 am

    Your story seems like you were in the thick of the battle or you have also listened to a story from a journalist who was in a trench with Shavindra Silva, or a fly on the wall at the Presidents bedroom or a mosquito buzzing over Nadesan’s or Puliudevans heads, or yet again from Marie Colvin of the UN.

    You should not be uttering such nonsence, unless you have a way to prove htese accusations and bring the wrong doers to justice.

    Then again where were you when the Dalada Shrine was bombed, or the monks were massacred at the Mahabodhi while meditating, or when innocent children were cut and chopped in vellages, or when the Muslim brothers were beaten killed and chased from the North given a dead line to leave. Where were you?

    Where were you when the lights went out?……………….DBSJ

  • 58. sws  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:13 am

    DBSJ…

    I am a victim of 1996 Dehiwala office train bomb blast and even today , I can’t hear from one ear and lost my balance. There were thousands of similar incidents where innocent children, parents, pregnant mums and so many pepole were mascaraed by LTTE led VP, Nadesan, Ramesh , Pulidevan, other terrorists.

    As such , do’nt talk about this minor incident compared to previous thousands of massacres done by those terrorist.

    swsw

    I am sorry you were injured.I know of many civilians killed and injured in shelling&bombing……..DBSJ

  • 59. Matt  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:14 am

    keep writing fairy tails

  • 60. ruwan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:17 am

    thanks for all this infor,we are very proud of our special forces, they did a fantastic job. they wiped out entire terrorists,they are deserved to be kill, we are thanking all the security forces saving sri lanka, we are with sf

  • 61. N.A.kumar  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:21 am

    I think as you said at the begining you should have waited for information. Just because some people are denying it, it it not going to go away in a hurry.This article would have been much more valuable with more concrete evidence. I don’t think geneva conventions should apply to people who don’t respect them themselves. What puzzles me most is with having misgiving about surredering, why did’nt Nadesan kept his sattelite phone connected to Al Jazzeera during this saga.
    Al Jazzeera would have paid handsomely for the coverage.

  • 62. LS  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:21 am

    Every LTTE carder should have the same situaton

  • 63. Garawi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:24 am

    Most of what DBSJ now writing except the details of the moment of surrender de describes, appeared on media reports in the aftermath of the war.

    Everybody knows that Solheim was the one who was trying to salvage the LTTE leaders and keep the outfit going to fight for another day. With the end of war in sight after three decades of barbaric LTTE murder,killings and terrorist grip of the country there was no way the Forces was going to let them slip.

    In the absence of a clear picture it is quite possible that these ’surrendees’ were taken for another group who were trying a break through the defence forces encirclement.

  • 64. Dean  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:27 am

    Hi my dear Sri Lankan bloods, I don’t know why are the people wasting time on this final days matters, all what have happened is planned by God and executed by human so we don’t need to worry about what has happened to all of those ruthless cold blooded LTTE murderess, (what goes around comes around) well all the lawful Sri Lankan knows, for the past 30 years, how many thousands of innocent lives have been destroyed by this Tigers? Have they ever accepted the responsibility??? never never never??? so that means all of the killings should have been carried out by some other sources! if you ask any LTTE carders or the sympathizers they will say, properly all of the killings in the past may have been the work of SL Government or Foreign Sources, this is how the stupid ruthless people lived so far, they never talked the truth or helped their own people or developed the area with the money forcefully collected from people or from other source of illegal activities and betrayed the whole Tamil community, ok suppose if the LTTE have won those final days battle and say most of the Sri Lankan soldiers have died and they have successfully bombarded Colombo and killed the president and other high officials, would all of those cried and hurried to UN, US and Europe or published article like this ever taken this matters seriously to report, I guess answer will be no coz thats how these heartless community have been living for the few decades so why the double standard. Sri Lankans didn’t start the problem in their mother land or didn’t go to a war with another country, simply they rescue the country from some mindless hopeless heartless ruthless psychos, therefore my dear Lankans since peace is beginning to prevail in our Land please look for the brighter future and help all the Sri Lankans and develop our nation to be the best in the world.

  • 65. Karu  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:30 am

    I heard another story.
    Nadesan had worked in the Jaffna police before the ‘trouble’ started. One day all the Sinhalese police officers (40?) were brutally massacred. Nadesan was absent. Can a person like this expect a miracle to happen to save him?

  • 66. Dilan peris  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:31 am

    Come on, Mr Jayaraj ……
    you can write what you want, men and women have risked all and died for their freedom. they never come to answers ……

  • 67. Wijitha Fernando  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:32 am

    Dear DBS Jeyaraj

    There is a contradition between two following paragraphs in your article. This may explain what really happend. May be LTTE tried to deceive SF and got hammered

    “A tiny group of 12-15 led by Nadesan and Pulidevan had gone first followed by a second group of 35-40 at a distance. They were all unarmed and carrying white flags.”

    “Some of the injured cadres put up a last ditch stand fighting with dwindling ammunition. They were reportedly led by Ramesh and Ilango who died a heroic death facing fearful odds

    Many consumed cyanide or blew themselves up with grenades.”

    There is no contradiction. Please read the whole thing carefully……..DBSJ

  • 68. Mahendra Rajapaksa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:33 am

    If this is true, my credit goes to SF….This govt is doing the wrong thing, they wasting our money(tax payers) to feed those fucking terrorists…..without simply poping up their heads @ the war….UN,US,UK,etc cant do anything any longer,they are now powerless…look @ iran.north korea…..Any way good work chap….keep it up…..try to write it in intermediate way rather than supporting LTTE or tamils

  • 69. M Rajapaksa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:39 am

    If this is true, my credit goes to SF….This govt is doing the wrong thing, they wasting our money(tax payers) to feed those terrorists…..without simply poping up their heads @ the war….UN,US,UK,etc cant do anything any longer,they are now powerless…look @ iran.north korea…..Any way good work chap….keep it up…..try to write it in intermediate way rather than supporting LTTE or tamils

  • 70. Chandran - Australia  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:45 am

    Hello Sriankans, It does not matter these people had white, red or black flags. There is nothing wrong killing these bastards. Why they all are instrumental of killing innocent civilians in cold blood and such people would havve asked for mercy and what did these terrorist did. So do not worry about these murderers . They deserve death and let all f…. arse holes like HRW, NGOs etc shut up. No body talks about the innocent people killed. Why ???

  • 71. Garawi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:55 am

    After reading the replies of DBSJ to some comments in this thread, I am now having a different view of DBSJ. I used to read his articles and found them reasonably balanced and substantiated. How ever now I see him as a person more aligned towards the LTTE.

  • 72. vp  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:55 am

    very few tamils comment on the matter. This is unusual. it seems they too agree on what happened.These people cause lot of sufferings to sinhalese,tamils,muslims.they deserve what they got. D B Dont waste your time and energy by writing on useless matters.We need to forget this black fast and to unite in meeting future challenges.Creating unity among all communities is big challenge and contribute your ideas on that matter.

  • 73. Wickramasinghe  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:57 am

    These LTTE so called Leaders Deserve the punishment they received. Only the LTTE and Western Powers will talk about war Crimes.

    War Crimes. & Human Rights

    Today this has become the latest weapon that Western Governments uses against developing countries to create instability with in the country and also within the region.
    This weapon can be use so effectively as and when they choose to bring down elected governments simply because those western governments do not agree with the economic progress that Sri Lanka heading towards after irradiating the terrorism.

    If Sri Lankan president to go before war crime tribunal it will only happen after American BUSH and UK Blair take their place in front of the tribunal. If this process take place there is no doughty it will set the presidency for the Sri Lankan president to walk free if he has done any war crimes

  • 74. Dew  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:59 am

    cannot be accepted at all. if they want to surrender they would have done that few days earlier. and what a joke is that? while few LTTE leaders trying to surrender, others are trying to break the SLA defence line.
    even though they are terrorists yes there should be a way to surrender. but not this way. as a whole organization they could have surrender.
    I can remember that Nadeshan was boasting earlier about Kilinochchi. but seems like he’s not a real fighter as his words. that’s why when other leaders are fighting for last minute he just wanted to surrender by using all his contacts. This is a real joke.

  • 75. Garawi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:01 am

    All these replies by DBSJ to comments in this thread made me change my mind about DBSJ. I did in the past consider his articles very balances but not any more. He is more aligned towards the Vanni LTTE.

    Is there a “Vanni”LTTE left?…………..DBSJ

  • 76. Garawi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:02 am

    Sorry ,I seem to have made a mistake in submitting two posts on the same topic. Please remove one!

  • 77. SHEKAR  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:10 am

    Hi DBSJ

    Some one witnessed in the Srlinakan TV around midnite that Prabaharan was hacked to death after captured. Satellite captured this and shown this live. After few minutes later, the TV channel was banned. Is it true?

  • 78. J.Muthu  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:12 am

    Look DBS some of the sinhala modayas comments, you wasting your time. Sinhala race come from thieves from india. They were thrown out from india. They will never going to use their brain. They are blood thirsty people, they prooved since independence. We tamils have to live with it, whole world agianst us because of pirabas madness.

  • 79. Confuses Confucius  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:16 am

    What everyone is bothered about? the outcome, or the means to achieve the outcome? Did everyone wanted the LTTE heirachy to be dead? The most probable answer will be a yes but why is everyone bothered about how they died. Is it the truly the Geneva conventions, is it purely a hatred towards the government (by the tamils, the west) or is it just a part of Sarath, Mahinda conflict. No one simply knows the answer to any of these because, all who are involved here have some kind of a conflict of interest.

    The next step is to eliminate, Mr. Karuna Amman and Pillayan. As long as they hold power in any government there wouldn’t be any justice to all those who got killed in the WAR. It will be like the Afghan parliament, where all kinds of mercenaries run the country.

    Why is the JVP silent about killing their leader Rohana Wijeweera and 70000 others. Where was patriotism, and human rights when school going children were dragged out of school and burnt alive. No one will be bothered because it is not as lucrative as the Tamil Cause. When the diaspora funding

  • 80. Liyanage  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:22 am

    Thank you for this article, Mr Jeyaraj. I’ve been curious to find out what exactly happened during the surrender and the million dollar question is who gave the order (if there was any)? I’m no Fonseka supporter but I doubt it was him. If there was an assurance from the President the only other person who could have overruled is none other than his beloved brother Gotabhaya. If Sarath Fonseka had given the orders he would have already been dobbed-in by the government when he broke out.

  • 81. James Thenuwera  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:29 am

    Sinhalese are the best people on earth.

  • 82. Confuses Confucius  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:32 am

    Why is the JVP silent about killing their leader Rohana Wijeweera and 70000 others. Where was patriotism, and human rights when school going children were dragged out of school and burnt alive. No one will be bothered because it is not as lucrative as the Tamil Cause. When the diaspora funding melts off and the lucrativeness of the Tamil Cause goes away, this saga too will become another JVP story; not so soon though.

    When you reflect back, the death the LTTE heirachy had, may have been the best they could have had. We know what happens to prisoners of war or suspects of terrorism in prisons in Iraq or in Guantanamo bay. They may have ended up in a sack up on a tree hanging and beaten up to death by a pole, like Pottuamman did to one of the LTTE cadres.

    The LTTE menace is over, the big menace is the corrupt sinhalese regime, which is the cause for the suffering of the whole country. I don’t know how some one can get rid of that; Mahinda Rajapakse couldn’t after all these years. So the answer lies with the other candidates, but who?

  • 83. sunshine  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:33 am

    So was the end to a story.

    Everyone can understand who the man behind these murders.

    Nadesan was given the opportunity by Mahinda to save his life with the remaining cardres. He did not believe it and went on with own initiative only to end the live by falling to the hands of the the wrong group. Possibly this fate would not have been fallen on them had they surrendered to 58th div I guess. SF were directly under Sarath Fonseka and thereby we are helped by this article as to have an idea how Fonseka was conducting.

    As we all see, if this is true, it is more evidence that cruel nature of Fonseka in his own profession. What more do we need to substantiate his credentials when it is abandently seen in the ways he tell lies and twisting his tounge in every direction to please JVP.

    As you may see JVP, who have nothing but a murderous past and bogus Marx mask, they have found the right candidate to wipe out the democracy from the land and pave way for facism. They will kick start it with the minorities in the country for sure in any sad event of this man become the president of the country.

    What is most unfortunate in the future political situation of the country is Ranils has taken the remnant UNP support to help JVP making Fonseka the persident. Ranil is all happy that Fonseka has sign a document with him for abolition of presidency. How childish is this of Ranil? It is a surprise if Ranil will not be the first casualty under the SF.

    People need to be intelligent, particularly the minorities not to give the batton and to be beaten.

  • 84. tharis  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:35 am

    Vijay Nambiar was directly involded in the negotioations and Mahinda as well…We all know India wants Mahindha again in power in order to hide and destroy all evidence of Indian s nasty hand in the war crimes on Tamils ….

  • 85. TCK  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:35 am

    DBSJ is back after a long and hard (on us) dry spell…
    Given DBSJ’s credibility, we can assume a fare percentage of the report is accurate.

    So guys, “technically” DBSJ is quite right. Shooting someone who surrenders with a white flag is not right. Even worse is shooting the family.

    Like he says the best the govt can do (also in a PR point of view) is to allow for an inquiery and to confirm that this was an incident that was carriedout by individuals on their own without any instruction from the chain of command. (This is how US would handle it)

    But of course, even if this was the true case (I.E. only an individual decesion), all those who are waiting to see things go wrong here (including the international media) will most definitely spin it off into an anti Sl pro LTTE hero worship and labelling SL as a terror state. More or less playing in to the hands of those who want SL to fail.

    So ground realities are different. To be honest, I do not have any idea, how a situation like this can be handled so that it does not harm the country or become an international media circus, but only serves to bring the wrongdoers to justice.

    Anyone has any ideas..?
    —————————————————————————-
    OK, technicalities apart, I am glad that someone had the guts to finish them off. But their children should have been spared in a way they do not have to witness the death of their parents.

  • 86. TCK  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:42 am

    16. David Blacker

    I totally agree with you. Except if I was the one shooting, I probably would have let the kids live.

  • 87. Indika  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:43 am

    I really feel sorry for the “innocent” carders. Racist sinhaloid army killed them in cold blood while they were carrying white flags. damn this is BAD.

    It’s ok for the carders to blast and kill thousands of sinhalese / tamils / and muslims because they never carry white flags.

  • 88. someoneimportant  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:44 am

    hi Jeyaraj,
    great article.
    Our lack of strength to take the higher ground has once again shown itself. it is precisely this inability to draw the line* that brought us this tragedy in the first place.

    *gang rape of 18 year old girl later torched by mob, after the butchering of her 14 year old sister. Just afew of hundred to be attacked by mobs and army who crossed the line. they were trying to revenge army casualties in the north.

    *LTTE’s gruesome massacres (paliyagoda) and others in ealam war 2, again in revenge for real or percieved tamil civilian casualties.

    we don’t need better politicians we need better citizens

  • 89. someoneimportant  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:46 am

    (corrected)

    hi Jeyaraj,
    great article.
    Our lack of strength to take the higher ground has once again shown itself. it is precisely this inability to draw the line* that brought us this tragedy in the first place.

    *In the 83 riots gang rape of 18 year old girl later torched by mob, after the butchering of her 14 year old sister. Just afew of hundred to be attacked by mobs and army who crossed the line. they were trying to revenge army casualties in the north.

    *LTTE’s gruesome massacres (paliyagoda) and others in ealam war 2, again in revenge for real or percieved tamil civilian casualties.

    we don’t need better politicians we need better citizens

  • 90. lankalion  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:50 am

    It’s not worth talking about these terrorists. noone in SL moan them except LTTE sympathisers…we can live in peace now. PERIOD.

  • 91. Chandran - Australia  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:56 am

    Dear Srilankans,

    We are all citizens of Srilanka. It does not matter what the race or religion we are . Any terrorist who kill innocent people Sinhalese , Tamils , Muslims etc should wiped out. It does not matter who carried out the operation or who is responsible. MR, GR & SF accomplished the mission to save Srilanka. We must never forget our brave soldiers from army, navy, air force who sacrificed their life to eliminate the terrorist. Our forces rescued Tamil people during the final phases of the war. It is VP who used them as human shields. He did not have the guts to take the cyanide capsule even and yet he pretended he is a hero. Our Army did the correct thing.

    Also I would like to mention that all outside countries to f ….. off from Srilankan internal issues. They are worried about human rights, but what are they doing in Iraq and Afghanistan. Let Srilankan leaders stand up from these external influences. Our Army, Air force, Navy has shown to the world that terrorism could be eliminated and SF could provide a valuable service if required.

    Today UN , US , UK , Canada is so concerned about Srilanka’s HR Violations. What are they now doing in Iraq and Afghanistan … they do much worse things and no Human Rights are discussed or raised by UN ?

    UN is a puppet organization which is controlled by US.. they never took action against US for war crimes and we all know the invasion of Iraq cannot be justified in any manner killing so many innocent people just to get rid of one man ?? . So why our Srilankan leaders should worry about UN . Ask UN some good questions and challenge . We as Srilankans can live if necessary with Rice and Sambol. We should not be dependent on external grants/loans, provided there are no strings attached.

    Final message to Srilankan leaders …. DO NOT BEG !… SRILANKANS CAN SURVIVE UNDER ANY CONDITION !

  • 92. Kushan Peiris  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:56 am

    DBS,

    Good article but its all based on speculation!

    I would love to hear you speculate on what speculation means………..DBSJ

  • 93. James Thenuwera  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:58 am

    According to Sarath Fonseka (at the Monday 14 December 2009 press conference), what he stated to Frederica Janz of the Sunday Leader was that a journalist covering the northern war had told him that Gotabhaya had given orders to Brigadier Shavendra Silva to kill the Tamil Tigers who wished to surrender.
    At the press conference, Fonseka, while confirming the Sunday Leader story but criticising that it misled the readers, stated that he still takes the full responsibility for the Tamil Tiger deaths.
    If Fonseka stated to Janz what was told to him by someone else (the journalist, in this case), then that is much different to him stating his own state of mind.
    What Fonseka stated to Janz, if it was what was stated to him by the journalist, then Fonseka’s statement to Sunday Leader is mere hearsay; it cannot be considered as a fact – that Gotabhaya actually gave such an order. No tribunal or court can convict a person on the basis of hearsay evidence; so Gotabhaya and Brigadier Shavendra Silva need not overly worry about facing charges in a war crimes tribunal, based on this story.
    Fonseka decided to have a press conference on Monday, only after so much uproar was created owing to the article in the Sunday Leader. Then the damage had already done.
    Fonseka stated his true state of mind at the press conference on Monday, but, again, it was belated.
    It seems most of the readers of Sunday Leader did not pick up the point – that what Fonseka was saying was mere heresy (a story told to him by another journalist).
    At the same time, the Sunday Leader was at fault. They reported the matter under the heading
    “Brigadier Shavendra Silva Ordered Them To Be Shot” – Fonseka”
    Rather than mentioning that a journalist had told this to Fonseka, the Sunday Leader reported it as Fonseka saying “Later, I learned that Basil had conveyed this information to the Defence Commander, Brigadier Shavendra Silva”.
    This may be bad journalism by the Sunday Leader (if Fonseka told them that he was merely saying what another journalist told him). The Sunday Leader had an ethical duty to state so precisely.
    But, did Fonseka really say this to the Sunday Leader or not? (that he was given the said information by a journalist, otherwise he had no knowledge of it). Only Fonseka and the Sunday Leader know this. The tape recording of the interview is the best evidence to find out what was exactly stated by Fonseka to Janz.
    If he is honest and is telling the truth, Fonseka must come out and now reveal the name of the journalist.
    He must do this now.
    Then, we can see what that journalist in turn would say.
    If there is no such journalist then Fonseka will lose his entire credibility.
    Let us wait and see whether or not he will do this.
    Also, the Sunday Leader must state exactly what Fonseka told them, and why they did not report about the ‘journalist’ who seem to have had the first hand information.
    If Fonseka never uttered to them about ‘a journalist’, the Sunday Leader must state this. They must do this to preserve their credibility.
    As the matter is so important, they must release the full audio tape of the interview to the public.
    I am not trying to whitewash Fonseka or anyone else but merely uttering to you exactly the complications surrounding the story, according to my understanding.
    A further, thorough investigation is required around the points mentioned herein. That will either exonerate Fonseka (to some extent)*, or his creditability will be totally gone.
    My way of interpreting this may be wrong. I invite others to comment as well on this very important issue.
    *In any case Fonseka should have been so careful before dropping such a huge bombshell like that. He should have asked the Sunday Leader to thoroughly state that it was hearsay information, as it was told to him by someone else. He did not do this. Furthermore, he should have stated that what the journalist told him was wrong.

  • 94. HeyMan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:02 am

    Dear DBSJ

    I think you should stop writing these things now. Now war is over let them settle down and think of their future please.

    What we need to do is support both Sinaha and Tamil people to get better life after this 30 years of war.

    …whatever over is over ..

    Bad people got what they supposed to get end of the day

  • 95. fazal  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:02 am

    WHAT A DENGEROUS MAN IS SARATH, IF HE GET ELECTED HE WILL USE THESE TACTICS AND WIPE OUT MINORITIES… INDIA KNEW ABOUT SARATH AND ADVICED RAJAPAKSE TO GET AWAY FROM THIS DEVIL….

  • 96. Kumar  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:03 am

    Dear DBS

    Are you trying to defend Shavendra de Silva?

    I am only telling the truth. I dont think Shavendra Silva needs defenders.He’s a big boy………DBSJ

  • 97. Paul  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:11 am

    Both Nadesan and Pulidevan were instrumental in dragging on the war when time after time they were asked to surrender by both the GOSL and the international community.

    In doing so, they personally were responsible for hundreds of their fighters dying for a cause that was already lost. They also put thousands of innocent civilians in harm’s way by hiding behind them as human shields.

    I personally don’t think they deserved to be shown any mercy whatsoever. While the rank and file of the LTTE fighters have a good chance of being rehabilitated, these hard core leaders would never have changed their minds about continuing the fight for a separate state.

  • 98. kumaran  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:22 am

    Cat and Mouse ………….How long can you play?

    As a Tamil, for the following reasons, I will vote for Rajapaksa

    - to finished off LTTE
    - Stand up against west
    - Only Rajapaksa can deliver some sort of solutions to Tamils with Indian help.
    - Tamils got freedom of speech within Tamil community in Srilanka and Overseas, before we lost freedom of speech under AK47
    - Temples, shops, media, schools and charity organisation are able to or trying to function independently.(under LTTE impossible)
    - People start think and act independently
    - No more alternative viewers killed since May 19th 2009.

    AND
    Genuine Singhalese, Tamils and Muslims must work together against
    Singala nationalism
    Tamil nationalism
    Corruptions

  • 99. noname  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:23 am

    1. Why they waited until last moment to surrender. (They had pressure from all over the world to surrender) Why they waited?

    2. Why Praba, Pottu and Susei tried to flee while third group is surrendering? What is the intentions behind that?

    3. The people who were going to surrendering may have shot by the second group who were fighting until death? (As government claimed in May)

    4. How did u get the tiny little details of the incident. May be you are shooting in the dark!

    5. You were always referring Karuna about killing of policemen. But he said that he handed them over to someone (can not remember who must be Pottu)

    6. Why government want to destroy them like this specially destroying many information with them.

    7. Have you heard of the Dasht-i-Leili massacre? Have US done war crime investigation on that?

    You remind me of Clint Eastwood as the man with no name in Sergio Leone’s “spaghetti”western movies…..DBSJ

  • 100. Kumar  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:29 am

    DBS
    pl don’t publish my earlier comment as it is ill informed.
    Thanks

    Sorry its already released and Kumar it is not ill-informed at all. No problem…………..DBSJ

  • 101. Jayan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:35 am

    One should not forget that the LTTE killed 800 unarmed policemen who surrendered in Elephant Pass. Did any one charged for war crimes? The laws of war apply only to conventional warfare. When you fight the terrerists, there are no accepted laws. Its a well known secret that Mahinda and Gotabhaya caved into western pressure. Fotunately Sarath Fonseka ignored their commands and finish-off the terrosists. But unfortunately he just can’t keep his big mouth shut. Most importantly now we don’t have to warry about bombs going off in Sri Lanka.

  • 102. DAD  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:51 am

    This is the time the Govt.must act and bring justice and save the face of SL infront of the World. Dicipline the Politicians and the Armed Forces (the corrupted ones) then everything will be fall inline.

    Bravo DBJ.

  • 103. Garawi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:55 am

    Mahendran say\s ” They were amiable, well-connected people”.
    Huh, amiable killers!

  • 104. Gnana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:59 am

    What goes around comes around !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • 105. Rationalman1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:00 am

    Mr. Jeyaraj, thank you for the brilliant article. However a couple of things bother me. Why was General Fonseka in China during the last few days of the battle. As a reported “hands on”Commander, one would expect him to have been right on the battle front. Was he sent out of the country? And if he was sent out, did he have operational control over the Special Forces on an hourly basis? And why was he not informed about the surrender negotiations?

    I think the election campaign will reveal a lot of answers to your questions…………..DBSJ

  • 106. Chandra1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:10 am

    Dear Srilankans, We are all citizens of Srilanka. It does not matter what the race or religion we are . Any terrorist who kill innocent people Sinhalese , Tamils , Muslims etc should wiped out. It does not matter who carried out the operation or who is responsible. MR, GR & SF accomplished the mission to save Srilanka. We must never forget our brave soldiers from army, navy, air force who sacrificed their life to eliminate the terrorist. Our forces rescued Tamil people during the final phases of the war. It is VP who used them as human shields. He did not have the guts to take the cyanide capsule even and yet he pretended he is a hero. Our Army did the correct thing. Also I would like to mention that all outside countries to f ….. off from Srilankan internal issues. They are worried about human rights, but what are they doing in Iraq and Afghanistan. Let Srilankan leaders stand up from these external influences. Our Army, Air force, Navy has shown to the world that terrorism could be eliminated and SF could provide a valuable service if required.
    Today UN , US , UK , Canada is so concerned about Srilanka’s HR Violations. What are they now doing in Iraq and Afghanistan … they do much worse things and no Human Rights are discussed or raised by UN ?
    UN is a puppet organization which is controlled by US.. they never took action against US for war crimes and we all know the invasion of Iraq cannot be justified in any manner killing so many innocent people just to get rid of one man ?? . So why our Srilankan leaders should worry about UN . Ask UN some good questions and challenge . We as Srilankans can live if necessary with Rice and Sambol. We should not be dependent on external grants/loans, provided there are no strings attached.

    Final message to Srilankan leaders …. DO NOT BEG !… SRILANKANS CAN SURVIVE UNDER ANY CONDITION !

  • 107. Navaratne Herath  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:11 am

    Whether it is right or wrong now it is over, now our country is free from terrorism, No one likes terrorism, but it happened due to several reasons. International community also responsible, supported and motivated the Tamil people to fight against GOSL, finally as an elected government, they defeated the LTTE.

    There won’t be such an incident again in Srilanka, now let the country to develop with the unity.

    Please stop talking about this barbaric history, let’s by gone be by gone.

    I think you should tell this to Sarath Fonseka, no?……………DBSJ

  • 108. leo  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:17 am

    As always, DSBJ gives an accurate account of what happened. I have a few questions for which I do not have the answers.

    1. If you and I were there at that time after such a long fight, and knowing who is in front of you surrendering what would you have done?

    2. As you have mentioned surrendering was part of a plan to sneak VP, so was there a bigger plan?

    3. Was this the only time when people who surrendered
    were killed, both by the Army and the LTTE?

    For me this is not a question between the LTTE and Sri Lanka Army, it is a question about humanity. You had once mentioned in the column the song by Bob Dylan “Blowing in the Wind…..” and i remember that always. I hope you will have an occassion to publish the words of that song for all those who glorify war.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Blowin in the wind is one of my perennial favourites too. Here it is -

    How many roads must a man walk down
    Before you call him a man?
    How many seas must a white dove sail
    Before she sleeps in the sand?
    How many times must the cannon balls fly
    Before they’re forever banned?

    The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,
    The answer is blowin’ in the wind.

    How many years must a mountain exist
    Before it is washed to the sea?
    How many years can some people exist
    Before they’re allowed to be free?
    An’ how many times can a man turn his head,
    An’ pretend that he just doesn’t see?

    The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,
    The answer is blowin’ in the wind.

    An’ how many times must a man look up
    Before he can see the sky?
    An’ how many ears must one man have
    Before he can hear people cry?
    An’ how many deads [sic] will it take till he knows
    That too many people have died?

    The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,
    The answer is blowin’ in the wind.

  • 109. A Sri Lankan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:19 am

    Dear DBSJ

    I’ve been following your articles for some time, but you seems to be biased and supporting LTTE for some reason.

    As stated in some of the above comments, one can not expect a better execution for those terrorist for the destruction they have done to our country in past 30 years…this is equally applicable to some of those ones who are holding high positions in the govenment…!

    Did you ask UN to action when those innocent civilians got killed when they blew up busses, banks and trains?.. those terrorist will never be “Hero’s” by any means to the general public, unless you are another terrorist.

    Tamils in our country sufferred enough with all this and my only hope is that there will be peace in our mother land for the years to come, be it under Mahinda or Sarath…!

    DBSJ RESPONDS

    I dont think any reasonable person who read and understood this article will say I am biased and supporting the LTTE.But I am certainly saying that LTTE leaders who surrendered with white flags after getting assurances of safety from President Rajapakse through UN chief of staff Vijay Nambiar were shot dead in cold blood by the Special Forces.

    Now how does stating the facts make me biased? (You do understand what bias means do you)

    By the way if you have really read my articles in the past you will surely know that no Sri Lankan Tamil journalist writing in English has been openly critical of the LTTE as I have been

  • 110. pushpa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:21 am

    Hey DBSJ all this time since the demise of LTTE your tail was nicely tucked between the legs. Now I can see that slowly it is coming up because that idiot SF opened his big mouth and said something stupid.

    As many writers have stated above why didn’t you or diaspora say anything when the LTTE was killinng innocent men women and children (some babies were hacked to death or dashed on the ground in front of their parents). LTTE was killing their own people when they wanted to surrender. If they got hold of you god knows what they would have done to you.

    With that sort of track record, what do you expect ?. Take them into custody and put up in a five star hotel ?.
    They had enough time to surrnder, but waited till the last minute fighting and killing more soldiers. Even in your write you say that Ramesh went back and fought a last ditch battle with whatever ammunition they had. That says, these people would have come with firearms. So what do you expect the STF to do ?. Just sit there until they come and shoot you. You shoot them first or you get shot. It was early in the morning and it was raining although you say it was dawn and there was light. Looks like you smell a bit of blood and you want to chase behind it.

    I bet you don’t publish this.

    You lose your bet. Why should I not publish this and let you make an ass of yourself?………..DBSJ

  • 111. harsha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:26 am

    Glad to hear that they are finished cold blooded or not. These are the people who plotted and killed innocent civilians cold blooded for thirty years. These civilians were not involved in any war.

    If these beasts were killed cold blooded it is nothing more than what they deserved for their sins.

    If they were to survive they would have killed more civilians in more horrific way.

    So how they were killed, we dont give a dog s..t ! It is well justified. Mother earth could do well without bastards like them

    What you harvest is what you grow.

    Wonder who will harvest what is being sown now?………..DBSJ

  • 112. Wasantha Bandara Ranagala  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:31 am

    Hi DBS

    I read your article with the same excitement of reading a Jack Higgins thriller.

    What are you contemplating at this late stage? We can put forward all sorts of points to justify our side of the story. LTTE killed innocent Sinhalese and the army retaliated with venom in response or vice versa. In October I drove along the east coast from bottom Panama to Trnico for 8 days with my wife and daughter who had not seen that area before. Though we enjoyed the stay at Arugam Bay/Passi Kuda/Nilaveli, when I saw the miserable life of the people there I did not see anything different that to the life of the people in the south. Struggling to make a living.

    Let’s be happy that all of them are no more. What is important now is how to get rid of the Rajapaksa megalomania to start with. He has gone blind and ruining the remainder of Sri Lanka. According to your comments Sarath too is involved. But most of the Sinhalese in SL and here we know put him in a better pedestal than MR because he is not alone in this drive now. Those who are backing him for whatever reason is from the anti war front. Wouldn’t you want to do some service to these poor Sri Lankans to find their economic freedom for a start. War crimes, human rights and human wrongs will follow suit if we could give way to economic rights to them. Those who perished with arms would have found their destiny either with white or black flags.

    Wasantha Bandara Ranagala

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    What a nice compliment. Thank you.

    I love Jack Higgins/Harry Patterson too.Enjoyed both the book and movie of “Eagle has landed”

    As for your observations on poverty eradication and economic freedom for all.I am with you

  • 113. TK  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:44 am

    14. dayan jayatilleka,

    If this is the only way to “justify” the Bros, GoSL and SLA then MR may have to be replaced by the likes of President Obama….

    Also please note there are sections within US who are calling President Obama to arrest President Bush and VP Dick Cheney for war crimes.

    Now you may want to say look at Nobel acceptance speech by President Obama etc., but also now he is being accused by your friends in Cuba.

    Yet President Obama is somewhat different and looked at different around the world including by HE Amb. DJ.

    All in all President Obama too represents the Yanks, and that’s not “mahinda Chintana”.

    I just thought of pointing out to three relevant comments in the Daily Mirror regarding this matter, and the true “chintana” of the “silent majority” of Sri Lankans-Buddhists

    *In a country of deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act. If heinous crimes have been committed on humanity it is time we hanged our head in shame and seek apology. We should rethink the character of our leaders whether they consist of the same human principles and observe the teachings of Lord Buddha. Only then will the Sinhala race shine and thrive otherwise it will be damned in the sins that we commit-Posted By: spark

    *Let us stop the ‘betrayal’, ‘Traitor’ Nonsense. As a true Buddhist, I am bit concerned and started to worry, if what this guy say is true. As I was thinking the Pro LTTE diaspora is making this claims and that was denied by our ministers. If this is true, then for god sake let the culprits face the music and they can’t rule my country at any cost-Posted By: Nanayakara

    *Thank you very much SF mother Lanka is very proud of You-Posted By: Fayad

  • 114. Maruthy  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:49 am

    Was wondering about the strange tone of the article until the Special Forces blaming stuff coming out.. Now I see the continuity in your articles……Wondering how long you are going to go on …….

    As long as I can Maruthy as long as I can.Inshaah Allaah!……………….DBSJ

  • 115. Maruthy  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:51 am

    “Whatever may be said, whosoever may say it –
    to determine the truth of it, is wisdom” – Thirukkural

    “Epporul Yaar yaar vaai Ketpinum – Apporul
    Meipporul Kaanbatharivu” -DBSJ

  • 116. Maruthy Again  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:52 am

    “Whatever may be said, whosoever may say it –
    to determine the truth of it, is wisdom” -Thirukkural

    DBSJ RESPONDS AGAIN:

    Theeyinaal Sutta Pun Ullaarum – Aaraathu
    Naavinaal sutta vadu

    Yaakaavaaraayinum Naa Kaakka -Kaavaatkaal
    Sohaappar Sollilukkup pattu

  • 117. Susith  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:53 am

    Actually, Terrorists have no rules. They can kill as they wish, but when it comes to their death, there are lot of rules to protect them. What a funny leagal system.. Who invented it for which purpose.. Just to protect violent people. Are there any rules to control such people? I haven’t seen any such thing..

    If terrorists adhered to rules they wont be terrorists.If govt troops do not adhere to rules they become state terrorists………………DBSJ

  • 118. thamilan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:56 am

    DBSJ, all these days i was under the impression that your parents certinly have wasted their money sending you to STC. shame on you.

    The STC motto is “Esto Perpetua” or “Be Thou for Ever”………………DBSJ

  • 119. NoEalamInSL  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:02 am

    Brilliant article, Jeyaraj.
    Whoever killed tiger cannibals/terrorists, it is justifiable. Whether they surrendered or not, they deserved death.

    A cure to a tumor is removing it completely.
    USA and Britain should be brought to War crime tribunal for negotiating with terrorists at the last moment of Eelam war IV to save LTTE terrorists who killed many thousands of Sri Lankans for the last 30 years.
    Saving of surrenders of serial killers, murderers, terrorists are Against Humanity.

    Three should not be any investigation/probe against Sri Lankan forces on last stage of war and should treat as a “Global Model” of combating terrorism. No surrendering options for terrorists.

    On the other hand, LTTE was given periodical pardon/surrendering options for unconditional surrender by government of Sri Lanka, but they refused at all times and until last moment LTTE tried to fight to death risking 300.000 people announcing “bloodbaths” if war continued to tarnish image of Sri Lanka. Democratic institutions like ICRC, UN, human rights groups (HRW) and legislators of superpowers should be held accountable for helping terrorists to terrorize the civilized world announcing “blood bath” during last stage of war taking side of terrorists to terrorize trapped civilians and threatening a democratic government by announcing economical sanctions to use as a leverages evacuate most dangerous terrorists in the world.
    Last stage of Sri Lanka has given clear violation of global campaign of combating terrorism not by Government of Sri Lanka but by those guardians of democracy UN, ICRC, HRW, EU, USA, UK.

    UN must investigate not on Sri Lanka but those criminal institutions and legislators on how they acted during last stage of war in Sri Lanka.

  • 120. Dexter  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:02 am

    Well fine LTTE people are terrorists, they had to be dealt with this way.

    But what about their families, especially children-like the ones GoSL have now put behind barbed wires at Ratmalana Hindu Colloege to showcase the international community.?

    I say the “rehabilitation” show @ Ratmalana and ambepussa away from the children’s home and parents is just guise too just like all else by the bros.

    “Hundreds of children are still missing or separated from their parents. They must be reunited as soon as possible” – Retired Major General Patrick Cammaert, the UN special envoy on children and armed conflict.

  • 121. Arunan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:10 am

    The mindless-heartless-brainless Sinhala politics and governance is determined by the monks living on free money.

    Take a sample of “scary” looking monks from the Daily Mirror:

    http://tinyurl.com/yks235f

  • 122. ben  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:16 am

    These rascals who were responsible for the deaths of many innocent tamils & sinhalese should have been shot on sight. They were cowards to to hide behind white flags if ever they did, in the end.
    Where was the international community when the LTTE killing machine was bumping of Sinhla & Tamil leaders leaders, and even Rajiv Gandhi ? I have to presume they supported it !!!
    Thanks to the armed forces & the Govt.

  • 123. Rationalman1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:19 am

    Like clockwork, these brave keyboard commando “Sinhalese Patriots” crawl from under the rocks and start their (depending on the day and the “patriot”) “The LTTE is inhuman/subhuman so they should be eradicated” chants.
    Reminds me of those WW2 movies with the Nazi caricatures.

  • 124. Asoka  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:22 am

    USA ordered the execution of wounded Che Guevara after he surrendered in 1967.

    No UN letter to Uncle Sam then, the biggest war criminal in history.

    SL should not waste time on inquiries. Ask the western white mafia hypocrites to go to hell.

    Are you equating Che with Nadesan and Uncle Sam with Mahinda Maamaa?…………..DBSJ

  • 125. Lakson  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:26 am

    SL Govt has never done a war crime. The 30 years old bloody terror was ended with the elimination of those barbaric and merciless criminals like Pulidaven, Nadesan and Prabhakaran. These bloody terrorists must have been put to death by frying them live in a frying pan and not by just a bullet. A gun shot was a bonus for these terrorists. These terrorist took lives of thousands of innocent people.

    “SL Govt has never done a war crime”. That’s a wonderful statement.Jayawewa!!……..DBSJ

  • 126. Lakson  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:27 am

    S L Govt has never done a war crime. The 30 years old bloody terror was ended with the elimination of those barbaric and merciless criminals like Pulidaven, Nadesan and Prabhakaran. These bloody terrorists must have been put to death by frying them live in a frying pan and not by just a bullet. A gun shot was a bonus for these terrorists. These terrorist took lives of thousands of innocent people.

    “frying them live in a frying pan”. Wow!You should be on “Iron Chef”program on TV………DBSJ

  • 127. Chandra1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:31 am

    This message is to Mr Philip Alston,

    Before you ask questions from Srilnlkan Govt on some guys with white flags, you better understand few important issues .

    UN did not ask US why so many innocent people are killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

    UN failed in Ruwanda where so many lives could have been saved . Why ???

    UN interfere in small countries for small issues but keep silent with big powers because they dictate terms to UN.

    UN appears to help terrorist in Srilanka and even evacuate and pardon, but never talks, investigate or bring charges against terrorists who killed innocent people in Srilanka. Remember , 9 /11 is nothing compared to numbers killed by bombs in Srilanka !.

    Please do not meddle with Srilankan internal affairs . Our Govt know how to handle a situation. Our forces have achieved the biggest victory against terrorism which some countries are not happy because they do not know how to achieve such a victory or their interest is to sell arms to kill innocent people.

    Philip Alston,please take note…………..DBSJ

  • 128. Sanjaya Nonis  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:40 am

    Your aricles are very interesting and feels like being at Mullivaikal on 18/05/2009. DBSJ, How do you do it ? :)

    I am a Sinhalese with serious concerns for minority interests, specially tamils in Sri Lanka.

    After all these years, I think they should learn 2 basic things in order to obatin their rights and their self respect.

    a) Be united as one – Do not create fractions within the tamil community.
    b) Follow the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King- “Non violence is Power”

    Thanks DBSJ, waiting for your next article……………….

    Thank you Sanjaya………………..DBSJ

  • 129. Sathyan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:05 am

    Thanks DBS – once again you have proved your Journalistic Professionalism.

    I really want to ask you something …

    I know, for a long time, you have been a critic of LTTE. When you point out something about LTTE you often severely attack Karuna and Pillayan, the only remaining (former) LTTE members who are now in the limelight. I have heard that many say that Karuna was responsible for the killings of 600 policemen in 1990. But, if that was so, wasn’t it true that he was carrying out the orders by his then leader, VP?

    For the sake of argument, if we say Karuna is the one to be probed and punished for the killing of 600 policemen, then, no matter who ordered, whether it was MR or GR, shouldn’t Sarath Fonseka is the one to be probed and punished for the cold-blood killing of Nadesan and Co.?

    Ironically, I can refer this subject back to a statement delivered few days ago by one of the prominent members from the Sarath Fonseka’s camp (I can’t remember his name); he said, ‘if Karuna can be a minister in the MR’s government then why can’t SF be the next President of Sri Lanka?’ LOL …

    By the way, DBS, in spite of who they were and what they did in the past, why don’t we as the society give Karuna, Pillayan, Douglas and the like a chance to prove their credibility in giving something good in nature back to the community? In my humble opinion, in the past, they all were under the wrong leadership and, as the cult members they carried out the orders from the leaders without the second thoughts. Thus, like all other 11,000 LTTE cadres who were given pardon and currently undergoing some sort of rehabilitation, AND the JVP, these men too need to be given a second life? Don’t you think so?

    For the God sake, No, I am NOT trying to back SF here. Sri Lanka DOES NOT need a military-turned President who is an opportunist.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    When the Karuna crisis occurred I was perhaps the ONLY Tamil journalist who urged the mainstream LTTE to resolve the problem peacefully and warned that the split could lead to the weakening of the LTTE in the long run. The LTTE paid no heed and thought military strength will solve everything. What I foretold then has happened and the Karuna factor was instrumental in the decline and fall of the LTTE

    Nowadays when some people attack the LTTE as terrorists who should be wiped out for their terrorism acts and that no terrorists should be pardoned I point out that people like Karuna and Pillaiyan are part of this govt. On the one hand former members of the LTTE and those children conscripted by the LTTE are being detained while ex – tigers like Karuna and Pillaiyan are being rewarded with perks and political office. I am pointing out the double standards here

    As for comments when some people say tiger surrendees should be killed and query about the LTTE killing 600 surrendee Policemen in the East, I take delight in pointing out that the man responsible is now part of the govt

    Make no mistake. The execution of 600 policemen was ordered directly by Karuna with the concurrence of Prabhakaran

    As for giving a “chance” to Douglasm Karuna and Pillaiyaan. That’s fine as long as they have really and truly given up violence. When the LTTE killed EDPD guys during the ceasefire I also protested in print and in person. I spoke at an EPDP organised meeting condemning the killing of Sinna Bala

    But then what happened? Douglas Devananda unleashed a spate of civilian killings and abductions in the North after Mahinda became President in 2005

    While professing to be democratic Devananda continues to exercise an authoritarian grip on the Jaffna Tamils through violence and intimidation

    If Prabhakaran wanted to be sole representative Devananda wants to be sole alternative. One form of LTTE tyranny is being replaced by another form of EPDP tyranny

    In the East the TMVP is continuing in the old ways of the LTTE albeit on a low -key

    The Karuna-Pillaiyan split is leading to internecine violence. Karuna is blocking Pillaiyan in matters concerning the development of the east

    However I must admit that Douglas and Pillaiyan are trying to develop their respective areas and help the people to some extent within limits

    I will support them in those endeavours and continue to criticise them for other negative acts

  • 130. Mendis  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:13 am

    Mr.Jeyaraj,

    You suspect SF was carrying out orders from ‘top’. Who do you actually refer by ‘top’ ??

    Mendis

    “top” is top secret at the moment but the truth will be revealed very soon I think………..DBSJ

  • 131. Isuru Chamara Dissanayake  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:17 am

    President Rajapakse lead the war and handled western diplomatic apes in fitting manner. MR shielded the forces from external threats. Instead of just India in 1987, many western countries including US tried to stop the operation in the last moment. If it wasn’t for President’s effort, we are talking peace with LTTE even today. This exactly is the leadership Jackass Fonseka so ungratefully trying to ridicule.

  • 132. Isuru Chamara Dissanayake  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:25 am

    President Rajapakse lead the war and handled western diplomatic apes in fitting manner. MR shielded the forces from external threats. Instead of just India in 1987, many western countries including US tried to stop the operation in the last moment. If it wasn’t for President’s effort, we are talking peace with LTTE even today. This exactly is the leadership Jackass Fonseka so ungratefully trying to ridicule.

    Public has the right to know. This is mot just human error judgment.
    We should know more about Sarath Foncseka’s alleged raping incidents. Most of the times rape is much more vicious than murder since rape is always premeditated. In a murder, the murderer may not have time to rethink because murder can happen so instantaneously. Rape is not like that.

    It will be a great pity if the General doesnt come clean in order to be the “Mr Clean” who wants to clean others people’s alleged dirt. It wouldnt do any good for Sri Lanka if the General becomes the President while carrying a lot of baggage and many skeletons in his cupboard.

    If President Rajapakse wins a second term as expected, he should appoint an independent commission of enquiry to probe all these exposures and establish their veracity, and bring culprits to justice. He should also invite anyone who has allegations against him or any of his brothers to bring those before this commission so that they can be investigated and culprits brought to justice. The constant carping about corruption surrounding the Rajapaksa family will then cease. If any of it is established as correct, then they too must pay the price for such activities.

  • 133. Hiran  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:27 am

    Thanks for the very interesting read.

    The fact is that there are more people glad that it ended this way because justice was served. This is an instance where rules would not have delivered justice.

    Are you advocating extra-judicial killings as a form of delivering “real” justice?…………..DBSJ

  • 134. iluvsl  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:32 am

    I condemn the Special Forces for killing in cold blood the tiger leaders who surrendered with white flags

  • 135. Lal Jay  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:33 am

    Most important thing is the 30 year long terrorist problem came to an end conclusively. Now it is over it open avenues to try and find solutions for the Ethnic issues and thousand other issues that were shadowed by the war. Unpleasant things happened on the way have to be accepted as nessesary on the way to achieve the impossible.

    After all the SF and the LTTE who fought in the battle field were not saints. Now openning this old wound is not in the interest of any community where in a country ethnic harmony is groving day by day. Injecting the hatred in to people again is an unpardonable sin. Sarath Fonseka and David Jeyaraj and all others beating on this issue are at fault. Stop this nonsence and let our people start their lives again.

    Before re-opening old wounds the wounds must heal first.What “healing” has this govt done?……….DBSJ

  • 136. TBD  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:46 am

    # 24, Didnt GoSL always said there is only 1,500 LTTE fighters. Howcome 12,000 in custody now?

    Ask Sarath and Gota…………DBSJ

  • 137. bob  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:53 am

    The Tamil Diaspora in the west knew , what is going on , I mean the negotiation between USA UK & NOR with UN. The assurance was given from the Top Level , thats why no one could beleive VP’s Death – If the Singalese ever come to know that he is alive- Probably B4 Jan 26th, Things could change / rattle. Those who comment ,The LTTE leaders deserve for this kind of Cold Blood – The Sinhala civilians too deserve due to the attrocities committed by the armed forces and the Govt against Innocent Tamil Civilians by Bombing Schools Places of Worship and hospitals
    But at the same token Govt had claimed no involvement of LTTE in N’goda bombings

  • 138. Gnanam  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:00 am

    Thanks DBSJ.

    Can we really expect decipline during war?

    I recently read an article in the WSJ by Warren Kozek (The real rules of war, 22 Dec 2009) in which he briefly described his father’s experience during WWII and draws parellel to what is going on in Iraq. The final paragraph in his artcle there is this quote by a British captain, John Tonkin, who experienced a great deal of many wars. “I have always felt,” Capt. Tonkin said, “that the Geneva Convention is a dangerous piece of stupidity, because it leads people to believe that war can be civilized. It can’t.”

    Although I feel sorry for the innocents and the children who got killed during this final episode of the war I really do not care how the LTTE got wiped out.

    I am glad the LTTE is gone for good. I am glad that what is left of my family in Jaffna is now living in relative peace.

  • 139. aratai  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:03 am

    .
    DBS:

    How can this be true, if 29 nations said, Srilanka did a good job in humanitarion rescue?

    :-)

    Many things are gray and not black or white…………DBSJ

  • 140. Roshan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:05 am

    Dear Writer -

    I understand the frustration you and others are in. You behind a computer others sitting in closed offices an round tables…

    Doing a real battle with the blood sucking brainless terrorists on the ground is not easy as what you or others are doing.

    Perhaps, there was a miscommunication, that means these soldiers didn’t get the message on time — that these terrorists are coming to surrender…

    Why the hell on earth … These terrorists waited until they get surrounded to a 1 square mile area to decide to surrender after 30 + years of a battle.

    I think whoever the people are going to question the Army or the Govt shold question themselves — doing a bloody war for more than 30 odd years — when it comes to and end and peak — they shouldn’t come up with a surrendering idea ….

    Thats what they have done before and it was always a disaster after they have given the liberty.

    In a way all the people who got armes other than the official security forces of a country should be wiped out if they are not in order with the country’s law.

    Readers — be aware of this type of tales … I wasn’t there to confirm this — you weren’t ther — or the owner of thsi article wasn’t there..

    I can write anything to tarnish or admire anyone.

    But even the writer of this article had to come face to face with a ruthless terrorist .. which he was trying to find since 30 odd years – see what will happen — That terrorist is responsible of killing of my brothers and sisters, my fellow soldiers … he has killed not only one or two or three — he is responsible for thousands of killings …. And if he has chance now – he will also kill you.

    Hey , WHAT WILL YOU DO ? kiss him on his feet and shake hands …………………

    I am against any killings … But if you find someone who is coming to kill you with a nife .. if you don’t kill him what will happen .. he will kill you

    If an unarmed “terrorist”surrendered with a white flag I will accept it…….DBSJ

  • 141. faizal  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:13 am

    In any battle or war there are survivors who lives to tell the tale if and when necessary. Cold blooded killing by the SL forces is nothing new. Go through the post independence history of SL during the internal uprisings. SL, especially the Sinhalese love killing human beings in cold blood. Who killed most of the Sinhala people? Is it the LTTE or the SL Armed forces & police? Definitely, not the LTTE.

    The LTTE problem was confined mainly to the N & E. But during the two JVP insurrections the problem was in the entire country and has anyone kept count of all those people killed during this period. I am sure it is more than what the LTTE killed.

    Most bloggers are pointing out only the ruthlessness of the LTTE, which however,was a terrorist organization, but not the ruthlessness and the cold blooded killings of the govt. forces, which are supposed to be properly constituted organizations that should obey the rule of law and the fundamental and human rights of all Sri Lankans, whatever their race maybe.

  • 142. Safa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:13 am

    The narrative pieced together by DBSJ seems highly probable. It portrays a situation ‎where things moved at a fast pace and even the commanders on the ground were ‎unable to control the advance of the troops. There appears to be conflicting accounts ‎of the commands emanating from the Defense Secretary and Lt General. ‎

    Also it confirms the statement by General Shavendra Silva that the 58th division was ‎not involved in this incident. There is also an indication that the Special Forces may ‎have not received prior orders regarding the proposed surrender of a section of the ‎LTTE.‎

    It would seem that the initial attempt to surrender by Nadesan was not heeded by a ‎few elements in the Special Forces leading to a free for all and subsequent fire fight ‎killing of the remnants of the LTTE including civilian members. All this may ‎have occurred within a few minutes and it is only those involved and present at that time ‎who could give us an account of what actually happened.‎

  • 143. Amilan Theron  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:14 am

    To all those Sinhala patriots who don’t want war crime inquaries on GoSL:

    - Elect Sarath Fornseka otherwise he is going to continue to tarnish the country from outside.

  • 144. Rosa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:14 am

    I guess ltte surenderees expected flowers and biriyani from the army

    Recognition of their right to life would have been enough………..DBSJ

  • 145. Ramesh  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:20 am

    In Tiger heirarchy, there are NO innocent people. Everyone is a partner in the nasty crime perpertated by the LTTE. Only an unborn tiger is innocent.

    I wish the surrendering tigers died biting a cyanide, the way they pushed their fellow tamils fighters into the jaws of death.

  • 146. Simon  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:20 am

    Its a shame that the top contenders for the presidency are Mahinda and Sarath.

    First thing, Mahinda must stop dying his hair and his hideous moustache in deep black.

  • 147. XSRILANKA  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:22 am

    International enquiry is what is needed, whoever looses this election will be facing possible aftermath of this. Only place is to hide is to be the next president.

  • 148. Sugath Hettiarachchi  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:28 am

    Is is sad to see this author too is falling to the common trap of reporting hearsay and (report) will be used by pepole with other intentions. I hope author should remain as a good analyst, as so many reporters became willing sepeculators and relied on hearsay during this brutal war for the sake of reoprting..

    “Hearsay”is not necessarily unreliable.Its useful to gather information………DBSJ

  • 149. ardneham  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am

    I am grateful to you for the Article – which you could not
    hold back for long – you have a “scoop” in the front lines
    even now.
    The article proves that there will be witnesses in the
    “war without witnesses” despite keeping the Media out.
    You missed a point Sir; Dr. P.Kohanna in the UN
    boldly stated: yes they held white flags BUT were shot by the LTTE from behind for surrendering!!!! This man`s
    line will hold up to Electioneering along with his friends
    Dayan and Rajiv – the famed mouth-pieces of GOSL?

  • 150. Sam_Australia  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:37 am

    This is most interesting (thanks DBS for the article).

    If you look back and see our history:

    A current minister was the LTTE terrorist who ordered many massacres including the 600 policemen

    A current minister was the UNP thug who killed a medical student (POL PARALA ANA case)

    A current MR supporter and then Premadasa supporter (and a diplomat until recently) was a guy behind PRRA like gangs who killed many Sinhala youth in the eighties.

    When the leaders of the JVP were killed- LTTE has supported Premadasa. They even sent a delegation to Geneva to counter the presentations made by some brave Lankans about these HR violations. During the eighties, in streets of Colombo, the police questioned the Sinhalese youth and let the Tamil youth go thanks to LTTE’s support Premadasa received. Premadasa called Prbhakaran his “younger brother”.

    I agree with Susantha that double standard of the international community is very clear.

    My sympathies are with the innocent people (including Prabha’s little son who apparently died and Wijeweera’s children and wife who are still kind of stuck in a navy camp). Nadesan was well known to many Sinhalese as a leftist. Some people say that the famous Sinhala artist Gunadasa Kapuge sung a song about Nadesan and his sinhala wife.

    The brutal treatment armed forces have shown against LTTE is not much different to the way they treated JVP.
    But the reaction of the UN in both occasions are so different!!

  • 151. Andy Lingam - London  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:55 am

    To DBSJ
    Thanks you for well inform article.
    To Sinhala brothers
    FYI, Mr DBSJ in not LTTE supporter ( LTTE broken his leg) , He still alive bcos he moved to Canada.

  • 152. Sathyan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:01 pm

    Thanks DBS – once again you have proved your Journalistic Professionalism.

    I really want to ask you something …

    I know, for a long time, you have been a critic of LTTE. When you point out something about LTTE you often severely attack Karuna and Pillayan, the only remaining (former) LTTE members who are now in the limelight. I have heard that many say that Karuna was responsible for the killings of 600 policemen in 1990. But, if that was so, wasn’t it true that he was carrying out the orders by his then leader, VP?

    For the sake of argument, if we say Karuna is the one to be probed and punished for the killing of 600 policemen, then, no matter who ordered, whether it was MR or GR, shouldn’t Sarath Fonseka is the one to be probed and punished for the cold-blood killing of Nadesan and Co.?

    Ironically, I can refer this subject back to a statement delivered few days ago by one of the prominent members from the Sarath Fonseka’s camp (I can’t remember his name); he said, ‘if Karuna can be a minister in the MR’s government then why can’t SF be the next President of Sri Lanka?’ LOL …

    By the way, DBS, in spite of who they were and what they did in the past, why don’t we as the society give Karuna, Pillayan, Douglas and the like a chance to prove their credibility in giving something good in nature back to the community? In my humble opinion, in the past, they all were under the wrong leadership and, as the cult members they carried out the orders from the leaders without the second thoughts. Thus, like all other 11,000 LTTE cadres who were given pardon and currently undergoing some sort of rehabilitation, AND the JVP, these men too need to be given a second life? Don’t you think so?

    No, for the God sake, I am NOT trying to back SF here. Sri Lanka DOES NOT need a military-turned President who is an opportunist.

  • 153. Rationalman1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:08 pm

    I can speak for the Sinhalese majority but all we Tamils want is to be left alone to enjoy life with our families. We want and deserve to be treated like a Sri Lankan Citizen with inalienable rights. We have been in the Island as long as anyone. But since Feb 5th, 1948, we have been told by the Sinhalese majority that we exist and our rights are “given’ to us by the benevolence of the Sinhalese Majority.

    We have been lied to time and time again by the Senanayakes, the Bandranaikes, JR Jayawardne, Premadasa and Kumaranatunge.

    At least Rajapakse was honest. he never hid his Duttagemnu complex, with emphasis on the “Dutta” part. We were attacked in mass by Sinhalese mobs in ‘58, 77 and 83. And our civilins were butchered by the uniformed murders of the Sri Lankan Armed forces. Of the so called 70,000 (understated) killed, least 95% were Tamils Civilians by Sinhalese mobs, and the armed forces. I cannot find any reliable numbers (even from the Sri Lankan Government about the number of civilians killed by LTTE, but I doubt is it is anywhere close to 1000.

    Killing civilians is tragic and totally reprehensible. But the Sinhalese majority does not acknowledge the Tamil Civilian deaths. They dehumanize them. One only only feel sorry for these people. One thing that is permanent about history is…. Nothing is permanent. The pendulum swings one way and then the other. People who are at one end of the pendulum should never forget that it will swing the other way and when it does, it will not forgive.

  • 154. Suresh M  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:09 pm

    DBS who are these ‘friends’ you were mentioning in your last para? Do you think SL Tamils have any ‘friends’ too at this pathetic juncture?
    It appears from many Sinhalese justifying, and even congratulating the SL Army for killing of pre-arranged surrendering unarmed LTTE. V.P was not wrong in his assessment of Sinhalese!.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    VP was wrong in many assessments.That’s why Tamils are in this situation today. As for Tamils having “friends”……Is that possible with Vocal warriors (Vaaichol Veerar) attacking everybody under the Sun?

  • 155. Rationalman1  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    Of the so called 70,000 (understated) killed, least 95% were Tamils Civilians by Sinhalese mobs, and the armed forces. I cannot find any reliable numbers (even from the Sri Lankan Government about the number of Sinhalese civilians killed by LTTE, but I doubt is it is anywhere close to 1000.

    Again killing civilians is tragic and reprehensible lest some “Sinhala Patriot” accuse me of being an LTTE supporter. When LTTE murdered civilians, Tamil or Sinhalese, I mourned them and condemned the murders.

    But I do not find that sentiment in most Sinhalese.

  • 156. Rohana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:23 pm

    This is a load of bunkem, what happend to their oath, the cyanide vial. Till last the ltte leadership said they will not surrender and fight to the last, which the tamil diaspora endorsed, even after Prabakaran died.
    So, it reasonably fair to accept that they all died in battle, with or without the ltte uniform, which you have already endorsed. It was the Ltte that was firing at fleeing civilians.
    Gen.Fonseka and the Govt. has totally denied it.

    Are you saying Nadesan and Pulidevan are alive?…………….DBSJ

  • 157. Nimal Rathnayake  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:26 pm

    Public has the right to know about these allegations. This is mot just human error judgment. We should know more about Sarath Foncseka’s alleged raping incidents too. Most of the times rape is much more vicious than murder since rape is always premeditated. In a murder, the murderer may not have time to rethink because murder can happen so instantaneously. Rape is not like that.

    It will be a great pity if the General doesnt come clean in order to be the “Mr Clean” who wants to clean others people’s alleged dirt. It wouldnt do any good for Sri Lanka if the General becomes the President while carrying a lot of baggage and many skeletons in his cupboard.

    If President Rajapakse wins a second term as expected, he should appoint an independent commission of enquiry to probe all these exposures and establish their veracity, and bring culprits to justice.

    He should also invite anyone who has allegations against him or any of his brothers to bring those before this commission so that they can be investigated and culprits brought to justice. The constant carping about corruption surrounding the Rajapaksa family will then cease. If any of it is established as correct, then they too must pay the price for such activities.

  • 158. Politics  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:27 pm

    This is just the beginning of the end of war criminals and their cronies.When one of these get elected as president and the loosing candidate and his cronies will be indicted for war crimes.Then what happens to the elected war criminal?We will have wait till end of his term.Every thing points to the Sinhala mass, in triumphalistic mood, are quiet happy to elect one of these war criminal presidential candidate.They find the moderates too boring.By electing the war criminal Sinhala nation will pay their high price just as Palestinians by electing Hamas.This will sow the seeds for creation of future democratic,LTTE free Tamil Eelam!

  • 159. Deshapriya  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:29 pm

    Dear Mr. Jeyaraj,
    Thanks a lot for your write-up. In fact, I was waiting for this.

    We will be able to close this chapter and move on. However, it seems that, we did not learn anything from this. Wasantha Raja and JVP was taken for a ride by SF.

    I can picture WR’s and JVP’s wept in six moths after the election if SF is elected like JVP did in the past (including after Mahinda took them for a ride in the last presidential election).

    I am afraid that you will have to continue to the next chapter that is going to unfold in the south in near future.

    You should not vote for either MR or SF in this election. Both are war criminals.

  • 160. thusitha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 12:45 pm

    LTTE learders are on standby till the white masters come and take them to west so then can start eelam on exile mean while the innocent civilians and there own cadres got killed, when they are in west they can start properganda saying innocent civi’s killed by the aremy (in fact its happening in now,) they never spoke about a surrender untill they got caught to 100 SQ. Meter, when they came to know there will be no way out suddenly started silencing joking wepons, world had enough of this cat and mouse game. this internationlay banned terrorist are not under UN accords or they are clearly not follwing norms when it comes to civilian

  • 161. Surya  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:04 pm

    Yesterday I watched Avatar (re-incarnation/Avatharam) in 3D.

    I am not a fan of science fiction movies, but this one is not just a science fiction, it worth seeing it in 3D. Well at some point, I was kind of involved more as I can relate the story with what happened in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan government and forces (Sky/Earth people) powered by 20 or more international powers (with MBR launchers, Cluster booms, MIG/Kfir bombers, advanced radar systems and provided Military training and consultations) to crush/wipe Tamils (indigenous people) in the name of war against terror/LTTE.

    The results would be same if the divided Tamils come together (as all indigenous clans came together for one cause) without any differences. No need for another bloody violent approach, it could be a diplomatic/political approach… Will Tamils unit, that is centillion dollar question? In the history of Tamil, there is more evident that Tamils split than unit…

    I don’t think this war crime thing will go anywhere, very soon (just after the election or even before that), India and China (interestingly/oddly) will come together again to rescues the SL government from this war crime drama… UN, US, EU and other countries will soon follow and say that they don’t want to harm the relationship with friendly Sri Lanka. No body care about the useless Tamils. In this materialist world, all just say things to make their own political/economical advantage but nothing will happen to salvage the Tamils. If Tamils/Human rights activist think UN is going to do something about this, we must be the stupidest people.

    If your intension of this article is to do some good or bring justice, it is just a waste of time. If you are writing this article in a manor of journalist, then yes, this is an amazing piece of work which can be useful in 10/20 years for those who master in Human rights studies or for future military analysis purposes.

    Tamils are a very powerful people but our only problem is the division. We don’t get along. We could have opposing views but should unite and learn to work as a Team to make decisions. Once we unite, we can solve almost all the problems, no need to rely on others.

    What do you think DBSJ, what can make us unite? What can we do to unite? Or it is mission impossible!!! Wish you a happy new year and belated merry Christmas wishes to you.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Thank you for the wishes and same to you

    Yes, sometimes its very depressing and one thinks what’s the point of all this particularly when reading some stupid, idiotic comments. But then one gets out of that mood and gets on with life

    As for writing this I dont know what results it may or may not bring. But I write what I know because the Bible says “the truth shall make you free”. So I’ll continue to speak truth to power in my own , small way

    Professionally its a challenge to seek the truth about what happened in Sri Lanka from far off Canada. I have no institutional support or NGO grants. Nobody re-imburses the expenses I incur in chasing the truth. The only reward I get is the satisfaction of writing a good article and the respect of my peers and regard of my readers

    Only people of similiar wavelength will understand or feel this

    As for upholding human rights that must go on despite the seeming futility of it all. Let the story of Sisyphus pushing that rolling boulder upwards inspire all of us

    AS for making Tamils unite, I have given up long ago. Now the danger is further fragmentation

    By the way yo’ve made me want to go and see “Avatar”

  • 162. SUDS  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:35 pm

    This article reminds of a similar story:

    Nad-e-hasan, a british muslim of pakistani origin believed in the noble cause of Dar ul islam. He was part of the london city police. He helped al Qaeda in bombing london metro though he did not actualy plant the bomb. He escaped to Afganistan and joined Osama as his official spokesman. The Jehadis were hiding among the tribals and firing at american troops. The americans managed to identify Osama’s hideout in Afpak and sent out half a dozen drones to bomb his hideout . Nad-e-hasan came out with a white flag and wanted to surrender. He also demanded a safe passage to saudi arabia (first class ticket in qatar airways) and recognitoin by UN for Islamistan.

    What did the americans do? At the risk of stating the obvious they certainly did not follow the geneva convention

    Its ironic that xenophobic Europeans clamour about war crimes when it comes to smaller and relatively weaker countries like Sri Lanka . They cannot tolerate a couple of spires in their skyline and the americans.. the less said the better about their drones mercilessly killing civilians.

    These people dont have the credentials to try anybody for war crimes.

    Its unfortunate if the president gave an assurance and that did not percolate down the chain. It would be unfair to hold him directly accountable for these killings. Its hard to belived that the general commited hara kiri by bringing up this issue.

  • 163. bob  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:43 pm

    DBSJ

    Some of the chingala contributors in your blog thinks , their race is the superior and above the international Laws. They also assume that the others are modayas and have to listen what they say is correct. The politicians of the begging pariah nation lives on denials. Please let me know of any international matter related issues these idiots ever agreed.
    All the modayas are shouting war is over – let us live in peace but now cut throating each other for position and a new business – Law Suits & Counter Law suits.

    Bob, Some Tamils also think that their race is superior………………DBSJ

  • 164. Anonymous  |  December 29th, 2009 at 1:57 pm

    From the writer of this article and those who have commented on the article are not eye witnesses to the incident . Only the army peprsonnel who were there in the fight could substanciate as to what happened.

    How did the woman wearing spectacles Murder Rajiv Gandhi and several civilicans. She was garlending Rajiv Gandhi. So that was the type of war the LTTE was conducting. Under those circumstances, even if those LTTE senior members showed white flags to surrender , what was the guarentee they were to surrender. Arguments can be taken in round about way, but ground situation was different. As one comenter argued as to why they did not surrender one week before for they could have saved many lives.
    Whatever happened, defeating terrorism was important to save the country and the people.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Not only the Army there are other eye-witnesses too. There are some officers who are ready to reveal the truth if a credible probe is launched. If the army personnel are allowed by their superiors to substantiate they would be prepared to do so by telling the truth. If the govt has nothing to hide let it have a credible probe

  • 165. gamaya  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:00 pm

    Well done for the brilliant article. It is for those who scream should provide evidence if this is not so. As I said in earlier post in the last ditch battle many tigers died heroically and many soldiers saved many LTTE fighters who were wounded. But as Forrest Gump said “shit happens” and it is up to them to clear it.
    DBS can’t you find out about Lasaantha W killing? Lasantha apparently tried desperately to contact president Rajapaksha before dying. As in this case as well President assured Lasantha nothing will happen to him. But someone who thought himself higher than the President (and wanted to be a president himself perhaps one day) ordered Lasantha’s killing Via military intelligence men loyal to him. Perhaps Fredrica janz smells rat and going all out to have her day for Lasantha. Even though Mangala – Ranil let it go now I don’t think Fredrica Does. (Is your website safe DBS – No hacking reported?)
    I am waiting for your article eagerly.

  • 166. Karan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    Why did not leaders and their families take cyanide while they brainwashed and forced innocence youngsters take cyanide?

  • 167. Kuru  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:11 pm

    Hi DBS,
    I was thinking, there was no article from you recent weeks and no twitters posted in web.
    “If and when that happens all the “friends” shielding this nation in international fora may be helpless as events take their own course.” My question is, FRIENDS you mentioned here are Dayan, et al?
    Read dayan’s comment. He thinks, SL governments never acted against humanity. Only LTTE committed all crimes against humanity. Still he tries to safe guard his government from all human rights violations and blaming all for tamil politicians. His recent articles reflect this attitude. My only believe is, nobody who commits crime against humanity, can’t escape from God’s verdicts and no more in the world.
    Hopefully long lasting peace will come to mother Sri Lanka.

  • 168. Nostradamus  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:17 pm

    Most of the comments claim and challenge valiantly and defiantly ” yes they were killed in cold blood, so what “. This is exactly what Philip Alston of UN wants to know.

    Late surrender does not mean a license to kill for the armed forces. UN does not classify surrender as early and late.

  • 169. Confused Confucius  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:31 pm

    Comments for the comments
    —————————————-

    # 81. James Thenuwera – Sinhalese are the best people on earth

    What did you mean by this? whatever you meant would be quite hard to prove in the prevailing world situation. I believe that you are not talking about racial superiority but how good sinhalese are, as people!

    # 98. kumaran – Kudos to you if you are a Tamil

    No one in Sri Lanka likes Rajapakse’s or any other politician; thats the truth. But when it comes to LTTE or Rajapakse people will choose Rajapakse, but I’m pretty sure when it comes to decide on Tamil people’s future people will have a different view. All these days the Sinhalese were anti Tamil (but actually anti LTTE) and the Tamils were anti Sinhalese (actually were anti government). Neither of the parties actually represent the Tamil or Sinhalese population for that matter.

    Your ideas seems what you felt actually as a human being not as a Tamil!

    # 94. HeyMan – These things should be written and known to everyone. Also what happened to the 70,000 odd JVP’rs and all the other people who are killed extra-judicially regardless of who they are.

    # 93. James Thenuwera – “If he is honest and is telling the truth, Fonseka must come out and now reveal the name of the journalist; He must do this now!

    Do you want this journalist dead as well? please leave the poor soul alone

    # 91. Chandran – Australia – “Final message to Srilankan leaders …. DO NOT BEG !… SRILANKANS CAN SURVIVE UNDER ANY CONDITION !”

    What are you doing in Australia if not for begging!!!

    # 70. Chandran – Australia – HRW and the human rights situation is the only reason why you chose to live in Australia and not Sri Lanka

    # 78. J.Muthu – you too look as if you are blood thirsty. Don’t read the comments if it’s too much for your mind!

    It is quite easy pick up people who are blood thirsty when they make the comments regardless of your ethnicity

    # 73. Wickramasinghe – I will be a happy person if our politicians were tried for war crimes. If they are free of war crimes they will be free and no one can blame them again; if they are convicted, then it’s hard luck!

    # 69. M Rajapaksa and # 68. Mahendra Rajapaksa – Calm down dude, if someone comes and pops your head there is no one to tell if this dictatorial rule goes on in Sri Lanka

  • 170. Sanath Kodikara  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:32 pm

    Was anybody brought before the courts for Iraq war incident ( as war crine) that Dayan Jayathikale mentioned above?

  • 171. bob  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:36 pm

    Hi All

    Hooray LankA – Its time for Tamils to write on Muther Lanka

  • 172. Ranjith Gunetilleke  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:38 pm

    We should NOT have any remorse towards the MASSACRE of LTTE terrorists and their families. Its over now.
    Now it is all about moving forward.

  • 173. Raveendra Siribaddana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 2:56 pm

    A person’s true nature can be seen from his behaviours. Now we can realize that what Fonseka and JVP and UNP want to do the country. It is doubltful to say that people will ever allow them to do what they want and wish.

    This is not a strange situaiton, even Lord Buddha had an enemy called Devadatta and Devadatta will never attain Nirwana.

  • 174. Martin Thomas  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:17 pm

    Matt | December 29th, 2009 at 1:41 am
    when LTTE was killing innocent people in cold blood why no one cared to speek up? specially international community, US , UK or UN. So the plan was to let them surrender and give them some breathing space so they can reorganise and start killing people?
    you have to illiminate those idiots. else others cant live peasefully.
    let the Geneva Conventions be there. terrorists mst be illiminated.
    What are Geneva conventions for then?An ornamental parchment like our Constitution?…………DBSJ

    Matt, can you please tell me, who made them terrorists in the first place. It’s the people like you. If you say it’s right to kill those who came with white flags to surrender, what can we do to people like you? Dont talk as you are not using your brains.

  • 175. Navin  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:45 pm

    There is a difference between shooting someone because, you cannot identify between a terrorist trying to surrender and a suicide bomber masquerading as a terrorist attempting surrender and shooting someone who has knelt down in front of you and is known to be unarmed.

    If any cold blooded killing took place, it is in the best interest of the country to make sure such things do not happen in future regardless of whether or not LTTE men got what they deserve or whether those who are shouting for justice are in fact crying foul.

    It is imperative that action be taken to stop this type of acts for armed forces are an asset to the country only in so far as they remain a disciplined body and function under the command of the political establishment. This must be done in a manner that does not weaken the tri-forces in anyway.

    As for the allegations on war crimes, since it is quite obvious that diaspora, UN, the western countries, NGOs, human rights crusaders and other busy bodies are all after different things and more so than justice and fair play double standards appear to be the norm it would suffice for GOSL to beat them at their own game.

  • 176. Roshan De Silva  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:50 pm

    LTTE made a big blunder by not reciprocating the Srilankan military terrorism on the Srilankan areas despite the Srilankan terrorist military have been massacring Tamils indiscriminately.
    Now, what happened, even though LTTE did not reciprocate the Srilankan atrocities against Sinhala people, NO SINHALESE show no mercy to the LTTE. That is, had LTTE done the massacres of Sinhalese as soon as the Srilankan military terrorists started genocide of Tamils in MOOTHOOR and SAMPOOR as so many 1000s of Sinhalese villages nearby, LTTE could have stopped the current demise.
    Now, the LTTE must come and do the same Srilankan LIBERATION to Sinhalese settled in EELAM without any sort of mercy as they just don’t understand HUMANITY at all.

    You are a rabid fanatic writing falsely under a Sinhala name. People like you are scum………..DBSJ

  • 177. Raveendra Siribaddana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 3:58 pm

    In November 2001 near Sherberghan in Afghanistan, Taliban fighters surrendered with white flags and open arms to an assurance that they will not be harmed. The surrender took place under the watch of the NATO/US command, and the subsequent mass massacre happened with total knowledge of the US Command in Afghanistan.

    2,000 surrendered Taliban fighters were reportedly suffocated in container trucks by Afghan forces operating jointly with the US. The bodies were reportedly buried in mass graves in the Dasht-e-Leili desert near Sheberghan, Afghanistan.

    The burial of the two thousand Taliban fighters in mass graves could not have taken place without the knowledge of the US Command in Afghanistan. Notorious Afghan warlord General Abdul Rashid Dostum, who was reportedly on the CIA payroll, is allegedly responsible for the massacre. General Abdul Rashid Dostumwas restored to his Afghan defense ministry position by President Karzai just before the recent presidential election.

    The revelation of the ‘white flag-bearing’ Taliban fighters who were given the assurance that their lives will be spared but were brutally killed and buried in a mass grave is not hearsay but investigated hard facts. This story was not told by some newspaper reporter to an Army General who himself used it in public to defame the Bush administration.

    Even the United Nations could use such credible information of the Afghan massacre to encourage the US government to initiate an investigation. The UN which reacts on unsubstantiated reports of human rights abuses in Third World countries ordering investigations of incidents which have emerged due to hearsay has so far failed to seriously ask the United Stated Government to initiate a criminal probe into the Afghan massacre.

    June 11, 2009 The New York Times carried a front page story about the massacre, and soon after President Obama in an interview with the CNN said that he has asked his National Security Council to gather information and review for him. He did not specifically say at the CNN interview that he will initiate a full-scale investigation. The 2009 is coming to a close but we have not heard from the Obama administration of the ‘progress’ of his national security council team’s review.

    This massacre represents a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and is a war crime. Under international law, the cover-up of a war crime is itself a war crime. From Afghanistan to Guantanamo Bay, from the FBI to the White House, the Bush Administration covered it up.
    To learn more and take action, visit AfghanMassGrave.org, and help make accountability a reality.

  • 178. Fran  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:02 pm

    What we are seeing, is the tip of the iceberg and the bottom is 1948. Sri lankan society is trapped in this huge iceberg made out of tears.

    very poetic observation………….DBSJ

  • 179. Dilan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:23 pm

    All columnists run for GOTABAYA criticize those who choose a course of action…and like now always the winner gets to write the history..

  • 180. Saunderaj  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:26 pm

    Two questions:
    1. Why did not these leaders follow the “LTTE cyanide rule” for themselves while they asked all young Tamils to swallow cyanide?

    2. What realy happend when 600 Sri lankan Police Officers surrendered to LTTE? They haven’t come home yet.

  • 181. karunakaran  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:49 pm

    DBSJ Is a good journalist.This is very good artical

  • 182. Chennai_Tamil  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    Hi DBS Sir. Your article was informative and befitting to the Sri-Lanka Govt.’s claims that no such massacre happened. All kinds of theories are going on. Sad to read how Nadesan & Puli met their end. Can you shed some light on what really happened to Dwaraka and Balachandran, kids of Praba. Reports on them are sketchy. Was Dwaraka raped and killed? Was Prabakaran tortured and killed? Was his son, Balachandran shot in front of his father? Can you shed some light on the where-abouts of Yogaratnam Yogi. What happened to Col. Ram of East? Excuse me for asking all these questions. Thanks

  • 183. M. Pereira  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:06 pm

    One could go on talking about LTTE did that, so whats wrong with this.

    LTTE tried to say their situation is like that of ANC. It didnt work that way.

    Just because US and UK did that, so why can’t GoSL do this too.

    There’d be different set of rules for GoSL.

    And last but least – # 14 dayan jayatilleka, many reasons are given as to why Gen. Colin Powell never entered presidential politics.

    Then again is Gen. Colin Powell talking about the Iraq war just like the same way Sarath Fonseka is talking and doing about?

  • 184. Rajah  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:14 pm

    #3 – Gloria wrote:

    “I feel very sorry for Nadesan’s Singala wife. How difficult it must have been for her to live in the vanni with the tigers”

    Why would you think that it was difficult for her to live in the wanni with the tigers? Is it your preconceived notion that those that lived under the tigers were living in difficulty? Everything has to be measured against a relative scale, not an absolute, utopian scale.

    There are places in the South of Sri-Lanka to this day where people live in far “difficult” situations than those did under tiger rule. Moreover, under the tigers, there was a strict code of conduct and discipline in their defacto state-running structures. These structures can be considered authoritarian, harsh and inflexible, but they were adhered to by the tigers unlike the structures of the Sri-Lankan Government where rules depend on who you know, how much you can bribe your way through, social status, etc.

    I for one prefer the devil you know well and sticks to his rules than a devil that makes the rules as he goes and bends them at will. With the tigers for instance, you knew exactly what could get you in trouble, and all you had to do was not do those things. Not the best place to live in, but better than the South where it doesn’t matter what you do, there is always a chance of you getting in trouble if someone who has the power to bend the rules does not like you. Further, if the tigers were that bad to live under, why did the tamils in the wanni and Jaffna vote for the TNA, the very voice of the tigers?

    The argument that they voted for them after the tigers were eliminated and therefore it does not count as a pro-tiger vote does not hold water. Even during the last stages of the war, not a single TNA MP spoke out against the tigers. If I hated the tigers so much, the last person I would vote for is one of these TNA MPs who said nothing against the tigers during the last stages of the war. Also, that the TNA actually put up a large showing in Jaffna given the draconian nature of the vote that the ruling regime enforced in Jaffna translates to a win in Jaffna in my opinion, pure and simple.

    Douglas Devananda went on record to say that had he had his way, the result would have been different. Sure, had he been allowed to stuff more ballot boxes, the result would indeed have been different. And last but not least, given that Nadesan’s wife was the spouse of a top tiger, I doubt she had any difficulty living in the wanni.

    “and now she is killed by her own people”

    Her own people? I fail to see how army men calling her a “bitch” can be considered her own people. Oh, right! I forgot!! She’s Sinhalese and so are they, so that makes them “her own people”. So much for those propounding a united anti-racist Sri-Lanka. I don’t see those that killed her as her “own people”.

    Her “own people” were Nadesan, and all the friends and family she had, not some morons who just happened to speak the same language that she did. She was accepted by the tigers regardless of her ethnicity, and the SL Army killed her calling her a “treacherous bitch” just because she spoke the same language that they did. Now, who do you think is racist? The answer is glaring clear.

  • 185. Deshapriya  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:26 pm

    RationalMan and Suresh M,
    Not all Sinhalese are bad. I am a Sinhalese who stand for the right of self determination of Tamils.

    Capitalists in this under developed country spread racial hatred ideas for their survival. Think what would happened to them if JVP and LTTE fought together against them.

    Believing SF or MR is a stupid thing. Now Wasantha Raja, some of the TNA MPs and JVP are doing it.

  • 186. Govirala  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    Comment 184 Raja

    “There are places in the South of Sri-Lanka to this day where people live in far “difficult” situations than those did under tiger rule.”

    Why did all those Tiger supporters left the North in droves if that was so good and even languishing in detention centers in places like Madras and Indonesia?.

    How about you my friend?.

  • 187. bob  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:34 pm

    Why Cant these chingala Key Board warriors write an article or known truth in SL Newspapers or blogs. Media and Freedom of Speech is that pathetic in the pariah State Terrorized State. All you shouted Terrorist must be Killed A . So As chingala SLA terrorist must be kiled Cold Blooded. First in the Line would be SF followed by……..You will not read the remaining namers as it runs to thousands. Why double standard here. LTTE was very keen in NOT harming any chingala civilian .If they wanted one artilerry would have wiped out the border villages .. Think of that please

  • 188. selvan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:35 pm

    Hi DBS

    Lot of facts were reveal as always. Good article. So in the final moment there were 3 groups. And pottu was in one of the groups and was he there until the last moment of the battle?

  • 189. Rohan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

    Everyday, my sister and her husband travelled in two buses to their work. This is because, in case a LTTE bomb explodes in one bus, one of them will survive to take care of their kids.

    In their point of view, what happened to these LTTE leaders is justifiable.

    Similarly, ask a Tamil family who lost their children to LTTE as canon folders whether is justfified.

    I am sure both families will say “We don’t give a rat’s a** how and why LTTE leaders died as they died”.

    I can live with this kind of justice.

    Hell with those HR agencies, which worry about human rights of a terrorist over that of a million of civilians.

  • 190. Pozhil  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:42 pm

    # 177, Raveendra Siribaddana, Thanks for bringing this up.

    LTTE and most Tamil diaspora supporting LTTE separatism didn’t see the full impact of the 9/11.

    Similarly Dasht-e-Leili has the potential of bringing war crimes investigations into GoSL. Or it could be the other way, will get covered up, so Dasht-e-Leili will not be in the limelight.

    Thanks to Sarath Fonseka, the most credible witness one could imagine, he could end up being the one that opens the flood gates of investigations into Dasht-e-Leili also.

    Here is a video on this by Physicians for Human Rights (PHR):

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdZlIEVtzN8

    Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has issued a call for a criminal probe in the wake of a major New York Times story by James Risen with new evidence that the Bush Administration impeded at least three federal investigations into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan in 2002.

    “U.S. Inaction Seen After Taliban P.O.W.s Died” – NYTimes.com:

    http://bit.ly/wHwpc

  • 191. Chinthaka  |  December 29th, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    # 127 – Because of Prof. Rajiv Wijesinha Prof. Alston may not take the note serious at the first try. Please ensure a second one is sent too.

  • 192. Max Headroom  |  December 29th, 2009 at 4:50 pm

    DBSJ!

    Ado Kotiya, punde yandi!

    Go to hell you motherfucking rabble rouser. Suck Canadian cocks and die there! Never ever step into SL.

    Fucking ass hole!

    Heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,heh,………………DBSJ

  • 193. Suthan P  |  December 29th, 2009 at 6:38 pm

    Well DBS, Sarath Fonseka opened up a can of worms. You just emptied the can all over the Lion in our flag. No doubt there will be more stories coming out soon maybe from you or even others. The leaders of the special forces squads you have named will certainly be under the limelight. they certainly wont be able to migrate anytime soon.

    I echo your sentiments in what Christ said, “those who live by the sword shall die by the sword. I wonder how well those who kill children sleep at night? How many times will they have to have rebirth before they attain nibbana? Each child they kill, how many rebirths does that set them back?

    When I see those who justify killing those who surrender it sickens me. The bell tolled for Nadesan, Pullidevan and who knows maybe even Praba, Soosai and Pottu. Will it soon toll for Mahinda, Sarath, Gota and the rest? Those who live by the sword will die by the sword!

    “Peace always”

  • 194. RS Wickramasinghe  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    According to your article DBSJ, the massacre of the surrendered Tiger leadership and their families was either

    A) a mistake ( a failure to relay instructions regarding a surrender)
    B) an act by omission ( a deliberate withholding of the order to accept a surrender)
    C) an act by commisiom ( a deliberately ordered act)

    It is also not clear at what point in the chain of command either one of these three scenarios occurred.

    Sri Lanka will have to deal with the question of responsibility to call itself a civilised nation.

  • 195. bob  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:18 pm

    Very Soon There will be a UN Inquiry on Who Killed GR after Jan 27th-2010. Gotta had to go.He can describe others ” Blood In Their hands”. When he got blood of others all over him.My dear Tamil friends Lets enjoy their Political Terrorism Till Jan 26. I wish Lots of blood run in the soothu (south ) SL

  • 196. jeyawardana  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:28 pm

    Gotabaya told the Sla to kill these pepole. Sarath told in the media. That is the truth.

  • 197. vishvajith  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    As always, thank you DBS for your article

    Can you please shed light on the statement made by Dr. Vickramabahu K..who claimed surrendees and their families including little children were taken to a room in groups and then clubbed to death.

    This may not be the group of Nadesan and Pulidevan etc.

    Thanks.

  • 198. Kalu Albert  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:05 pm

    “A tiny group of 12-15 led by Nadesan and Pulidevan had gone first followed by a second group of 35-40 at a distance.

    They were all unarmed and carrying white flags.When the Ramesh-Ilango led second group of 35-40 following behind saw what was happening they simply started running back.

    Some of the injured cadres put up a last ditch stand fighting with dwindling ammunition. They were reportedly led by Ramesh and Ilango who died a heroic death facing fearful odds”

    I am surprised that the Special Forces who were armed to their teeth would allow Ramesh and Illango to escape and regroup to lead the injured cadres to fight back.

    To see what happened to the first group,.the second group would have been in close proximity. Surely a battalion of 150 Special Forces who were on full alert and readiness, would have watched over both groups knowing the trickery LTTE tactics in the past. and finished off every one if they were going to kill them.

    The second group most likely were hiding with arms to make a last ditch attempt to clear the way for VP and his close associates to escape.

    This is all logical speculation, Only the brave Officers and the Soldiers who were in the battle field know exactly what happened and they are going to keep the details only to themselves.

    Sarth Fonseka despite his treacherous attempts to put the blame on one of the most outstanding commanders of this humanitarian operation,would not have a clue, as he was in China probably negotiating the commission on the recently returned shipment of ammunition.

    I hope Fonseka has booked a one way ticket to the States on a flight leaving on the 27th.

    All soldiers, officers and their families ,especially the mums and dads, whose young sons were used ass cannon fodder by this supposed to be brilliant Commander are hurting and angry for the pathetic betrayal Fonseka bestowed on them as his final gratitude.

  • 199. Rohan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    I feel very sad after reading all the comments. Most of us know the background of the deaths of Nadesan, his wife and Pulithevan (DBS’s article articulated it with apparent witnesses). Most of the commentators here seem to have no idea how many innocent civilians were killed by aerial bombardment, MBRLs, and a number of other means. Large number of people were abuducted, never to be seen again. If LTTE leaders deserve this kind of violent death, what kind of death the people who caused the deaths of Tamil people? Are we saying, the state army can kill anyone with imunity and it is all legitimate, but the non-state players are non allowed to do any such thing, and if they do it we will call them terrorists?

    Further, many here try to tell the readers it is all right to kill the LTTE terrorists like that. Can a gutsy military leader or a group of soldiers stand up and say, “We did it, because they deserved it”? Now, please don’t tell me LTTE shot them from the back.

  • 200. Rajah  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    Govirala – 186:

    ‘“There are places in the South of Sri-Lanka to this day where people live in far “difficult” situations than those did under tiger rule.”
    Why did all those Tiger supporters left the North in droves if that was so good and even languishing in detention centers in places like Madras and Indonesia?’

    The answers to your questions are all clearly outlined in my original post if you but care to use at least half a brain to read it and understand it without jumping up with a knee-jerk reaction. The statement I made : “Everything has to be measured against a relative scale, not an absolute, utopian scale.” says it all. If you still don’t get it, then ask yourself why the line-up at the US, British, Canadian, and a host of other embassies in Colombo are filled with Sinhalese professionals. If it is so good, why the hell do they want to leave the country? Tiger territory wasn’t a paradise, but compare that to the shanty-towns in the South where it looks like a scene from slumdog millionaire. And you know as well as I do, that with or without the LTTE, those slums will never change, come what may, because no one in the ruling regime will ever care for them. To make a valid comparison, you have to compare tiger territory and government territory during peace-times, like 2002, etc., not 2007, etc. where the SL Gov was savagely aerially bombing the LTTE territory. It doesn’t matter if the LTTE were even saints then, anyone would leave under such circumstances. Just compare how the tiger structures handled the Tsunami and how the SL Gov did, there is no comparison.

  • 201. Velu Balendran  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    Dear DBSJ,
    If what you are saying is what truly happened, then this will be considered to be the best piece of investigative journalism on the war without witness in SL, especially as it was conducted from overseas. I greatly appreciated the article.

    I have a small question though about Shavendra Silva. When he was first confronted with the white flag issue, as far as I can remember, his first response was to say “no comment” instead of saying that for the moment all he has to say is that he totally refutes the claim. But now he is coming out with total denial making us wonder what stopped him from saying that in the first place. It appears that he has prepared his ground before answering the questions. So, how credible do you think his position is? What is your take on any more skeletons coming out of the cupboard on this issue?

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Yep. His credibility would have been greater if he had denied it instead of saying no comment. But in the present situation all army top brass would be playing safe by getting clearance before commenting to the media.

  • 202. mark  |  December 29th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    Thanks DBSJ for the insightful article – please don’t stop your investigative journalism on SL matters as your articles are the only source of unbiased and truthful news and analysis.

    It seems the comments column has been hijacked by the usual rabid racist SL crowd (this time 9:1 in favour of the rabid racist Sinhala POV !). Previous articles, such as the one on the death of VP have been 1:9 in favour of the rabid racist Tamil POV. It seems SL is still doomed with these rabid ethnocentric POV’s, filled with with hatred towards anyone with a different POV. Grow up people !!! Be constructive, look at the root causes of the conflict and provide good will, reparation and help to all who need it in the tear drop island.

  • 203. LANKASON  |  December 29th, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    DBSJ DONT EVADE THE ANSWERS WHEN ASKING ABOUT THE 600 POLICEMAN WHO SURRENDERED IN THE EAST. POLICEMAN ALSO SURRENDERED LTTE LEADERS ALSO SURRENDERED . ALL WERE KILLED. WHY ARE YOU TRYING TO JUSTIFY ONLY LTTE S SURRENDER. WITH YOUR OWN HANDWRITING SAY LTTE TOO IS WRONG WHEN REPLYING.

    DBSJ RESPONDS (With a sigh)

    Machaang Lankason

    I’ll try to simplify things for you

    The Govt is saying that no LTTTE leaders surrendered with white flags and therefore none were shot. Fonseka said something else first and is now backtracking. He too says no LTTE surrendees with white flags were shot dead

    What I have done is to challenge that claim and that claim only by relating here some details of the incident where Nadesan and Pulidevan were killed by the Special forces despite walking out with white flags to surrender according to assurances given by President Rajapakse himself

    Now I am not trying to condemn one party and justify the other party or vice versa. All I am saying is that tiger leader surrendees with white flags were shot dead and asking for a credible probe into the incident by the govt

    Now this incident which happened in May 2009 is being offficially denied by the govt. The LTTE massacre of Policemen surrendees in June 1990 is well-known and not denied by the govt.That is the difference

    Though the govt says no tigers were surrendering were killed you seem to be suggesting that the govt killed the tiger surrendees this year as retribution for the LTTE massacre which happened 19 years ago

    I am a man of limited intelligence and find it difficult to comprehend the razor sharp reasoning of your brilliant intellect

    As far as I see it you seem to be thinking that the 1990 LTTE massacre and 2009 Army massacre have to be equated and treatd on par. You also see a definite link between both and depict it as retributive justice

    Now I will not equate the democratically elected government and legitimate army with the LTTE that has been described as “terrorist”. You do that but not I. I have great regard for democratic govts

    I think the LTTE is described as terrorist for engaging in acts like massacring surrendered cops. If you say that because the LTTE did that in 1990 the govt is justified in doing the same by killing tigers who surrendered then that means you are accusing the govt of being state terrorist

    Also if the govt got this massacre done in return for the 1990 massacre then why is it having Karuna the man who got it done inside the govt as a minister?

  • 204. Sathyan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:09 pm

    @ Comment # 129 – Your comment to my comment …

    Simply Superb DBS. I totally agree with you. I am not a blind supporter of anything or anybody. As you rightly said, encourage them when they are doing something good – knock on their head when they take the wrong direction. Let’s forget the eye-for-eye and blood-for-blood stand.

    THANK YOU DBS! Keep up your great work!

  • 205. Shanthy  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:11 pm

    DBSJ, your next column should elaborate this more with eyewitnesses account, SF’s Ambalangoda speech, UN’s Holmes subtle admission, Marie Colvin’s report etc.

    There are also the military personnel who witnessed this, now suffering in silence, will cry out one day.

  • 206. P_Mahen  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    It is sad to see, how events unfolded. Sri Lankans never behaved like humans. They even killed a mentally retarded person on the beach while hundereds witnessing. No action taken.
    What do we expect from these cold blooded inhuman hearts.
    They managed to brand LTTE as a terrorist organization. Now the govt is trying to brand every Tamil as a terrorist. Govt, recruits are doing this job on the web. The sad part of it is, they are using the tamils to kill tamils.
    Mr.DBS, i am proud, atleast you are brave enough to challenge the injustice. keep up your good work.
    A regime change may give some hope.

  • 207. Paul De sousa,Goa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    I am a retired UN officer reading your article from Goa.According to some of the UN inside information, they got enough evidence(video, cell phone, and phone conversation tapes) to prosecute Rajabaksa brothers and top level Army personal. And also they are suspecting Mr. Nambiar,s activities in this issue. UN official received very disturbing family business of Nambir with Sri Lankan official. They might going to send Nambiar back to India very soon..

  • 208. kkpalan  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    After reading this article yesterday and reading about 200 comments today, I can only say everyone had their own agenda.
    1. The timing of this article itself is well calculated and an eye opener for many. Many knew so far only the bad side of one candidate in the Presidential election.
    2. SF’s charge or statement of the murders and its hasty withdrawal is certainly not accidental , It is meant no get political mileage while pushing the oher side to get busy with handling international reactions during the busiest election period.
    3. The surrender itself and its make up and wide publicity deserved to be scrutinised thoroughly. Why didn’t they send. the women, children and other civilians with while flags in the first instance. Certainly the armed forces would have take them like others such as Soosai’s wife and children, Why the LTTE chose to send two or thrree of its well known leaders out. Wern’t they using these civilians, though mostly their family members, again as human shields for their escape.
    Just imagine what would have happened if the surrender drama went according to plan and Nadesan, Pulidevan & Elango is in the Government custody.
    -these so call ‘political’ prisoners have to be accomodated in separate hotel like detention centres.
    -they would be in the news even today with many diplomats, ICRC reps, NGOs, TNA MPs, their lawyers ,doctors, relatives and so forth meeting them almost on a daily basis and giving a run down of their ’stories’ to the Wetern and tiger medias everyday.
    -Amnesty International declaring them as prisoners of the month for several months to come.
    -Human Rights Watch ‘watching’ them whenever thy are brought to Courts and Hospitals.
    -The Pro tiger medias touting Mr.Nadesan as Nelson Mandela and Mrs Nadesan as Winnie Mandela and perhaps Pulidevan as Thabo Mbeki. There might be even attampts made to propose their names for Nobel Peace Price for their untiring efforts to bring peace in the country by attending peace talks in Thailand, Swiss, Germany and everywhere.
    - the tigermaniac would be kept alive .

    So, though incomprihensible, whatever happened, heppened for the good.

  • 209. Jay  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    DBS,

    Great article congrats.

    I had read the entire recent UTHR document regarding the last phase of the war. Report corroborates what you said.

    Last days during the war as surrender was finalized LTTE was letting civilians go free. So civilians were having a sense of relief that this war was coming to an end.
    Very next day all hell broke loose and fighting began with very high civilian causalities.

  • 210. Little Bird  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Dear DBS,

    I have been one of your regular readers and have a request for you. As a responsible journalist you need to stop and ponder for a moment to analyse what benefit these divisive articles would bring to the Sri Lankans in general, and Tamils particular.

    Assuming that these allegations were proved… and the culprits were sent to jail… would that bring a tangible, worthwhile and positive benefit to Sri Lankans ?

    Instead, why don’t journalists like you write on topics that would help enhance lives of all Sri Lankans? Health, poverty, common issues, technology, social problems…
    Isn’t that should be your terms of reference?

    Don’t you still see that it’s far more realistic and positive to work with the whole Sri Lankan society…and win smaller rewards… rather than continuing the tested and failed methods for asking for instant gratifications?

    If ten years go by… and you folks are still stuck in the mud… you are sure to remember this Little Bird!

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Sinnakkuruvi/Punchikurulle

    Are you saying people must sweep everything under the carpet and go on as if nothing has happened?

    True nation building or empowerment of civil society cannot be achieved without establishing justice and equality based on truth first.

    If and when that situation prevails issues you suggest will be focused on by journalists with a social conscience I think. As you rightly pointed out the basic issues common to all humanity need to be addressed

    In Sri Lanka the concept of development journalism was gaining support when the ethnic crisis escalated and pushed everything else to the backburner

    Each of us can write only on topics that interest us or we have some knowledge about. In my case I regret very much my inability to write about topics I love like cinema,wildlife,travel, history, books, music,drama,poetry etc

    But I dont have the time and energy for these as my primary focus at this point of time is still the unresolved Tamil national question,its related events , Human rights and the politics of Sri Lanka

    I also think about writing on people living together but havent found the time &energy for it

    When I began writing the column “Behind the cadjan curtain” in “Sunday Island” in 1982 my mandate from the then editor Vijitha Yapa was to explain the Tamil problem to the Sinhalese and build bridges between communities.

    It is because I tried to follow that as far as possible (despite lapses) that I have the affection, admiration and appreciation of a large number of right-thinking readers from all ethnicicites and nationalities

    It is wrong of you to say these articles are divisive. One cannot unite people by ignoring or glossing over the truth. True unity can come only when people know and realise their faults and the wrongs they have done to others. We must truly feel and empathise with the “other” if we are to set things right and unite

    For that we must inform the other of the truth no matter how unpalatable it may be

    I also believe in speaking truth to power. This article is not to “divide” but to tell the govt defiantly that they are lying about what really happened. I write to challenge the govts version of the event

    It is a sad feature of websites like mine that ill-informed,extremists monopolise the comments section.I allow them to a very great extent because I dont want to restrict their freedom of expression as far as possible. But please do not think this vociferous minority comprising all ethnicities reflect the views of all people

    There is a silent majority out there that is repulsed by what is going on and these strident divisive comments

    You may think that my articles divide people. No they dont.The quiet ,reflective type of people who read them enhance their knowledge and understanding of matters. As I said earlier you cannot build bridges by covering up the truth no matter how good one’s intentions are

    The raucous, hateful comments posted here are not the thinking of most decent people. I put my e-mail address here and get a lot of positive mails from people.I regret very much my inability to reply each and every mail but I do value them highly. Sadly the “Good” people write nice mails in private while the “Bad” ones rush to comment publicly with hateful posts

    You would not believe the number of mails sent by Sinhalese readers about this article. After knowing what happened they are appalled and express regret to me. Some volunteer additional information. Of course there are abusive mails but the majority of them are nice ones. These keep me going

    Another point I must emphasise is that a very large number of non- Sri Lankans interested in Sri Lanka read me regularly and often write in private. These are academics, journalists, Diplomats, NGO personnel and human rights activists. I suppose these people not having the “baggage” of being Sinhala or Tamil are in a better position to treat what I write on its merits without being biased or prejudiced

    I also get the feeling that you seem to be thinking that I write for financial gain. The time and energy I put in and the expenses I incur in gathering information about Sri Lankan events from Canada cannot be compensated financially

    I get paid for writing articles to Sri Lankan papers but when you convert rupees into dollars you realise how little that is

    This and other websites run with the help of my friends do not yield money either. If anyone clicks on the google advts we get a fraction of 5 cts. But very few click on them. So that income is negligible

    Though thousands of readers visit our sites daily my friends and I are yet to discover the secret of making money through that

    In order to subsidise my expenses I do part time jobs to earn money

    Idiotic persons from all Sri Lankan ethnicities are quick to accuse me of getting paid by this one or that one or this party or that party or this govt or that govt or LTTE or RAW when they dont like what I’ve written

    But the truth is I can hold my head very high despite these charges because I have never ever compromised on these fundamental principles.Being honest to God and honest to myself is my credo

    The Thomian motto “Be Thou for Ever” or “Esto Perpetua” inspires me

    Why then do I do this?

    My satisfaction is something different but I think very few will ever understand

    Little birdie your comment touched me.

    I will give thought to what you’ve said and hopefully write on other subjects if and when possible. Hopefully I’ll lighten up for 2010 and write on what interests me

    Let me excerpt part of my response to an earlier comment by Surya at #161

    “sometimes its very depressing and one thinks what’s the point of all this particularly when reading some stupid, idiotic comments. But then one gets out of that mood and gets on with life

    As for writing this I dont know what results it may or may not bring. But I write what I know because the Bible says “the truth shall make you free”. So I’ll continue to speak truth to power in my own , small way

    Professionally its a challenge to seek the truth about what happened in Sri Lanka from far off Canada. I have no institutional support or NGO grants. Nobody re-imburses the expenses I incur in chasing the truth. The only reward I get is the satisfaction of writing a good article and the respect of my peers and regard of my readers

    Only people of similiar wavelength will understand or feel this

    As for upholding human rights that must go on despite the seeming futility of it all. Let the story of Sisyphus pushing that rolling boulder upwards inspire all of us”

    By the way I dont think I will be wallowing in the mud in 10 years time. I may have turned into dust or ashes

  • 211. Don  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    I do not know what is achieved for the reconciliation of the two races after 30yrs of brutal war, by publishing this article. Yes Bible says “Truth shall set you free”. That is an individual being truthful. But truth is what we perceive. As a nation we need to get going. We have great potential. We got to see the big picture. Why dig up specs of dirt to find who did this or that? If one goes back to a great conflict in WW2, such things happened by the thousand. Millions died or maimed in Japan due to the 2 atom bombs and who or which nation was accused of being a war criminal? But the reality is, US the perpetrator helped the vanquished Japanese to start all over again and now they are best friends. Similarly US and Vietnam today.

    I do not believe the story happened as narrated and there are many many gaps. Geneva Convention was flouted all long in WW2. It can be a great joke. This article opens old wounds and muddies the water. Poor Singhalese and Tamil people want to get along in their lives and they are far away from this jiggery pokkery. Is anybody going to be punished for this? DBS says he does not think so.

    Therefore, as peace is beginning to prevail in our land, we should get together to make it lasting and see to it that we do not support extremist elements or harbour such views which could facilitate history to repeat. If we cannot do that, we should leave SL and build our own empires elsewhere.

    You cant build a new nation based on cover ups, deceit and lies…………DBSJ

  • 212. Dominic  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    It is so funny that how these guys justify the killings of the surrenders in cold blood. If for a sake of argument say this surrenders cold blooded killing justified, then what LTTE did also justified. Isn’t all the violence killings started by the Sinhalese towards minorities ???? Hello !

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riots_in_Sri_Lanka

    Who started it all??? Who is to blame for the country’s current pathetic status???

    The conmen known as politicians who exploit these divisions to come to power by instilling fear psychosis among the masses playing pseudo patriot card, as far as I can remember, Starting from from SWRD and it will continue many generations to come.

    As long as Sinhalese oppress the minorities, they themselves become oppressed. No one is going anywhere, instead we are going backwards towards stone age.

    But this situation is a golden opportunity for the Conmen
    who are the current politicians and who directly or indirectly benefit from them.

    Until the majority of average people realize this ploy,
    There is no way this Island going anywhere.

    Whenever I see a so called patriot, He or She is the worst enemy of the people of the Island.

  • 213. Channa  |  December 29th, 2009 at 10:59 pm

    Interesting read DBS.

    But I couldn’t consume as the truth of pictorial account in which the two N&P’s were shot dead allegedly by Special Forces. May be it happened at a distance not point blank. Our soldiers are a disciplined lot.

    Ok let’s assume say it was a cold blooded murder. What would have not crossed the minds of the Special Forces Soldiers? Here are some if I were in that position.

    1. The LTTE suicide cadres hid as civilians willing to surrender. What if a surrendered with white flags blew himself?

    2. The horror images of the Batticaloe massacre of 600 surrended unarmed policemen by the LTTE.

    3. The group of 30-40 people including that of the two N&P’s were a mere trojan horse to lure Sp Forces to walk in and then be ambushed by Ramesh & team.

    4. The LTTE hardcore will never surrender unless they have master plan to escape or kill all Sp Forces at that moment.

    Given this psychological pressure at that moment, it’s natural that they may have killed the group consisting N&P.

    It may be of a big issue for the international UN bodies and HR groups here. However brutal it was, now Sri Lanka is a safe place to live thanks that the LTTE is eliminated by hook or by crook.

    So even if there would be an international war crime, the SL govt could defend it’s stance.

    However, Sarath Fonseka will be taught a lesson for unnecessarily opening an unwanted debate berating the soldiers as well as the politico-military hierarchy with hatred turned lies, lies and lies.

  • 214. Kantha  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:43 pm

    DBSJ, I am regular reader to your columns. Nowadays seeing lot of political shift in your articles, which is attracting more sinhalese than Tamil readers. From their comment 90% of them think that Tamils are not part of sri lanka, which is good to know.

  • 215. yours truly  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:50 pm

    Sarath Fonseka says he commanded the army to the victory against LTTE.
    Sarath Fonseka says on theorders of Defence secratary, army killed LTTTE leaders who surrendered with white flags.

    In an investigation, who is going to ask whom, about the facts?
    The soldiers(if any) allegedly shot these LTTE leaders?
    Or
    simply to believe the so-called eye witnesses and bring someone to the ICC.?
    Will that be Sarath Fonseka as the commanding officer of the army
    Or the commander in chief, the president?
    Or Sarath Fonseka’s arch enemy Gotabaya rajapaksha
    Or the envy of Sarath Fonseka, Brigd. Shavendra Silva ?
    Or
    Will the International Criminal Court accept this article of DBSJ as evidence? I am sure fine tuning of this article and the witnesses will surface once the investigation is under way. There will not be any shortage of them.

    One thing is interesting,
    Nadesan never trusted sinhala army, wanted to surrender to US or UK.
    I for one do not belive for a moment Nadesan and Pulidevan went to surrender with just white flags as stated.
    They must have had wepons with them

  • 216. Ganesh  |  December 29th, 2009 at 11:52 pm

    Utter waste of time. Do some better analysis to do something better to the people instead of wasting time to write about surrendering leaders.

    LTTE recruited a lot of children by force and sent them to the front line to die. When they all know that they are going to die, the leaders took the white flags instead of guns and cynades . How many civilians were killed and suffered during the war. and how many of them are still suffering in the camps now.
    My opinion, If we want a peace full Sri lanka, There should not be any tiger leaders left.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    What a pity a very important personality like you had to waste his valuable time reading this (Did you really?).It is indeed a privilege to have a person of your eminence waste your time further by posting a comment.

  • 217. TCK  |  December 30th, 2009 at 12:40 am

    Since there are mostly emotional comments here I thought of dropping a line again.
    Some are strongly challeneging this report while some are treating as ‘gospel’.

    Both parties can be wrong to some extent. (no one knows for now)

    1. Firstly, I do not think DBSJ is at all wrong to report this. Rationally, if DBSJ has his sources and the story right, he can proceed to report. That is his right. I would like to see if someone that disputes his report can come up with a similar rational report to challenge it.

    2. Now, I beleive two things can resolve these matters when all others fail:
    1. Time
    2. Money.

    (These two work like a charm. No amount of accountability, inqueries, punishment is not going to achieve what the above two can do.)

    3. The comments mostly show that people of Sri Lanka (of all ethnicities) do not really care about what happened to these leaders.

    But now, this ‘incident’ can be very easily ‘blown out of proportion’ and used against the nation and we will all have to face the consequences. Just imagine, if a so called indepenednt international inquery is held and MR, SF, GR, Palitha Kohona, etc etc.. are found guilty and sent to prison, who and what will bring the country together? Will it not become an easy pray to anyone that wants to exploit us?
    (Do not forget that MR & SF basically bring together more than 90% of the voting population. So eliminating both is in a way making SL leaderless.)

    Will SL be able to find a suitable replacement to take national leadership quickly?

    These I feel are the big questions.

    We have all seen what has happened in countries where the top leaders (from all parties) have been eliminated.

    OK, since many think that this unimportant incedent (well in a way it is relatively unimportant as it is nothing more than the shooting of a surrendered terrorist leader. Except for technicalities of HR, and the ‘news value’ there is nothing more to it..It is a ‘they were killed so what?’ matter) should have been left as is and DBSJ should not have opened a can of worms, I like to ask, what do you think SF was thinking…..?

    If SF has the same worries, he should not have used them to harness votes in petty politics. This is a mega scale blunder from his part.

    International media along with HR agencies practicing selective HR protectionism, can very easily take this out of context, highlight how inhumane it was, and tie it all up with the plight of the ordinary Tamil people in the camps and whip it up into a poisonous gas to suffocate the entire country.

    So, what ordinary people like you and me will have to face will be much much bigger than this incident itself. That is what is sad about it. A terrorist leader, (whome we never knew personally) even at his death can still do more damage to us than any one we know personally.

    DBSJ, also thanks for your response to 203. LANKASON, rather than answering questions with questions, you gave a good response and it clarified a lot of things.

    I also have a question for you DBSJ:
    If SF did not bring all this up, would you still have published/ investigated this matter in this same manner? Please do not think I am questioning your right to report it. Just trying to understand the background.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    First of all this issue is not an intra-journalist or inter-journalist issue. It is a national issue with international implications. It is up to the govt to conduct a CREDIBLE probe or provide a comprehensive version of what happened from its own perspective.This in turn could be accepted,rejected or partially accommodated.If guilty persons are identified they should be penalised.However given the Rajapakse regime’s miserable track record in the sphere of accountability I very much doubt any concrete action will happen

    As for your question to me I have already outlined my mindset in the article itself

    I am reproducing the relevant extract here-

    “It is against this backdrop that I want to focus to some extent on the events of that fateful period relating to the deaths of Nadesan, Pulidevan and others.

    Though the lead story in “The Sunday Leader” of Dec 13th 2009 may have aroused passionate interest about the incident it was not something which went unreported during those days in May when “triumphalism” was holding sway.

    I, myself referred to it in the article “The last days of Thiruvengadam Velupillai Prabhakaran” that appeared in the “Daily Mirror” of May 23rd 2009 and on this blog.

    More than six months have passed since the killing of Nadesan ,Pulidevan and others. Some of us who have been researching the course of those events have been able to gather more information during this period.

    Information

    The information gathered is by no means comprehensive and may very well have some factual errors in the minor details. Given the difficulties one faces in this quest for truth I sometimes fret that the whole truth may never,ever be revealed.

    Nevertheless I do feel that some of the information gathered should be publicised at this juncture though I would have very much preferred to wait until more details were available.

    Despite the shortcomings it would indeed be appropriate to disclose some details now not only because the issue is topical but also to dispute the “evolving official” version that seeks to deny the entire incident.

    Here then are some facts about what happened then in mid-May 2009 “

  • 218. David Blacker  |  December 30th, 2009 at 12:41 am

    Let’s hope that one day both Karuna & Pilliyan will get what they deserve. The SL brand of karma is never too far away, as we have always seen.

  • 219. Bala  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:12 am

    Dear DBSJ,

    I heard MR’s told to somebody before he come to power that his aim was to eradicate UNP, defeat LTTE and to solve the ethnic issue. He had done first two. If he come to power again will he do the third, or just make more fortune to his family? Will be he as a normal Sri Lankan ruler in the past or he will make history? What do you think?

    Intdhalaa balamu. /Irunthu paarpom./Let’s wait and see./…………………..DBSJ

  • 220. shankar  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:19 am

    DBSJ

    As usual you always make them look so smart and handsome. One looks like he is a MD of John Keels and the other looks a Chief Accountant of Hayleys.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Shankar, they are good-looking and smart.The civilian clothes enhance their appearance

    And who knows , if they hadn’t become tigers they may very well have risen to the top in their professions

    Mahendran or Nadesan was a playboy in his youth and had to become Policeman because he messed up his studies. But he comes from a family of educators, professionals and govt officials. His father was a well-known Sama Samaajist called “Trotsky” Balasingham

    Even as the founder and first inspector general of Police in the LTTE run civil administration,Nadesan was able to run the fledgling “Kaavalthurai” remarkably well. I know how he got down particulars about various Police forces in different countries and tried hard to model the tiger police force on those lines

    The finest praise came from a reputed human rights organization that inspected the functioning of the LTTE police and stated it was on par with any police force in South and South east Asia

    As for Prabhakaran or Pulidevan who was a nephew of an old classmate of mine,he was a brilliant student but cut short his studies by joining the tigers. During negotiations with the govt delegation led by Jayantha Dhanapala on the P-TOMS ,Pulidevan cut an impressive figure

    So if things had been different Puli may have indeed been a top notch administrator or professional

  • 221. P_Mahen  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:26 am

    Mr.DBS,

    I read your response to little bird’s comment.

    Just a gentle reminder, it is your social responsible to write on unsolved issues which affected our life style. Today we are a scattered nation; I met my mother after 12 years, and again away from her for 5 years.

    No country to rely on, and always have second class citizen feelings. An unknown fear encircled us and killing slowly day by day.

    We have the fear to expressing our own opinion. Darken future and we are just letting the day to pass by. The violent expression we post on web comments are basically the expression of suppression. We feel like dropped out from the sky without any hands to hold us before hitting the ground.

    You are the few voices left in our community whom we can count on.
    Please be voice and screen for our lost community. Thanks and regards

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Thank you but I really dont think I have any responsibility to do so. I was writing for decades about the Tamil predicament and criticised the LTTE for its acts of omission and commission.I warned that the LTTE would plunge the Tamils into a state of irredeemable harm by its actions and urged a course correction. Few Tamils endorsed it openly. While the tiger propagandists launched constant attacks on me openly those Tamils who agreed with me did not stand up openly for what they believed in

    Now disaster has struck and the Tamils are shattered. Still the tiger supporters instead of cowering in shame and remorse for the terrible calamity they have brought upon the Tamil people continue to engage in tomfoolery like transnational govts, vaddukkoddai referendae, denial of Praba’s death, vituperative attacks on almost everyone capable of helping Tamils.

    In this situation no one can tell me that I have a responsibilty or duty to write

    That time has passed

    I dont think anyone can lift the dog’s tail now

    If I write, I write because I want to and not because I must

    Also there is no necessity to focus on the Tamil crisis as a mandatory task. Yes I may write but only if and when I want to and not due to any sense of ethno -duty or ethno- obligation

    Sorry for being blunt but I had to say it straight

    No hard feelings

    All the best for 2010

  • 222. Chandana  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:27 am

    Dear DBSJ,

    Please don’t get discouraged after reading these comments. By nature we Sri Lankans like to read only what we want to read and we want to hear only what we want to hear. As a Sinhalese Buddhist I never saw you as a journalist with an agenda and always checked your articles to get a true picture about what is going on in Sri Lanka. If you stop writing we will be at the mercy of those biased journalists with agendas.

    Thank you Chandana and all the best for the New year……………DBSJ

  • 223. Don  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:27 am

    214. Kantha:-“DBSJ, your articles, are attracting more Sinhalese than Tamil readers. From their comment 90% of them think that Tamils are not part of sri lanka, which is good to know”

    I speak to a lot of Tamils and Singhalese. Those under 50yrs are progressive and do believe that Tamils are a part of SL and if peace continues like now, there will be more interaction between the races and that will greatly promote racial harmony.

  • 224. Kumar Emayan  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:32 am

    ” An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does truth become error because nobody sees it”

    This is the anti-thesis of Goebbelsian propaganda techniques……………DBSJ

  • 225. David Blacker  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:46 am

    TCK, yes, but to leave the kids would have meant leaving witnesses.

  • 226. jcnars  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:51 am

    You say:
    “Among themselves the trio of KP, Nadesan and Pulidevan in a frantic bid to bring about a laying down of arms, contacted a vast array of personalities all over the globe ranging from friendly pro-LTTE legislators to journalists who had been critical of the LTTE.”

    - were you one of those journalists?

    Also, #207, apparently from a UN officer in Goa hints conspiracy involving Vijay Nambiar. You have a lead to pick from there.

    I am moved to learn about your part time jobs. I wish and pray that before you get “turned into dust or ashes”, you will see your motherland turn exactly as you had wished & prayed.

    Yes and thank you for sentiments expressed. Wish you the best for 2010…………DBSJ

  • 227. Dananjaya Bandara Dissanayake  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:52 am

    Dear sane readers and Mr Jeyaraj,
    It seems that Mr Jeyaraj has dropped a well timed bomb even though it is still under investigation. I think this is a good piece of investigation journalism.
    I feel that most of the Sinhala critics are polarized in the notion that this thing never had happened or if at all it had happened it should be ignored for various reasons.
    Does Mr Jeyaraj live in Canada mainly because of the fear for the LTTE or the government?
    After six month of the demise of LTTE and it’s hierarchy, can Mr Jeyaraj come back to Srilanka and do his respected job as a true journalist still?
    The Tamil National question is still not answered by us despite but we managed to destroy the person who questioned it.
    We live in a distorted history, precarious present and an uncertain future. We both ethnic groups are full of hatred,polarity and self inflated egos.
    President lives the life of a king- Dusta Gamini. His brothers and the extended family has become a dynasty in three years time.Opposition have been turned out to be traitors in public eyes. Once the patriotic war hero has become a zero over night.
    Friends, we live in a time of major deceit, misappropriation and recklessness. We will see many more articles like this when most of the IDPs come out from the camps.
    I personally know from past experience that SL army never was a disciplined lot, unless they were forcibly disciplined by SF in the Unjust war ended in May. I still doubt it.
    I will call Srilanka a democratic country only if can answer all these question posed by various interests in a positive matter and then I suppose Mr Jeyaraj and most of the Tamil expatriates should be able to land in a true democratic country!
    This election will never ever pave the way for that as it was called for a one mans show. It has started widening the gap already.
    Only a good leader ( does need to be a Sinhalese),a truly open economy and free thinking from average Srilankans can take us where we deserve. Otherwise we will be on our reverse gear as we have been doing since independence.

  • 228. Palith  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:08 am

    Dear Dbs

    Your Artical timely disclosure related to the current situation.

    But I can’t understand all comments were not balanced (one sided)

  • 229. jcnars  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:08 am

    David,
    Your opening lines from nursery rhymes reminded me of the ‘Sparrow’ song brilliantly done by Simon & Garfunkel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI9AohkDW5M):

    ———————————————————-
    Who will love a little sparrow?
    Who’s travelled far and cries for rest?
    “Not I,” said the oak tree
    “I won’t share my branches with no sparrow’s nest,
    And my blanket of leaves won’t warm her cold breast.”

    Who will love a little sparrow?
    And who will speak a kindly word?
    “Not I,” said the swan
    “The entire idea is utterly absurd,
    I’d be laughed at and scorned if the other swans heard.”

    And who will take pity in his heart?
    And who will feed a starving sparrow?
    “Not I,” said the golden wheat
    “I would if I could but I cannot I know,
    I need all my grain to prosper and grow.”

    Who will love a little sparrow?
    Will no-one write her eulogy?
    “I will,” said the earth
    “For all I’ve created returns unto me,
    From dust were ye made and dust ye shall be.”
    ———————————————————-
    Most of us can identify with the Sparrow strangely !

  • 230. jj  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:44 am

    Pls give more details abount your answer to comment 55 – re death of VP.

  • 231. Dan  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:45 am

    The Rajapakse brothers are responsible for the war crimes. It is suspected that India is trying to save the Rajapakse’s and put the blame on SF. When there is an International war crime tribunal, it is a must to look into the part of India’s south block involvement in the war crimes against the Tamils.

  • 232. Marcus Marianayagam  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:23 am

    DBSJ: I find your response to comment #210 more interesting than the article itself. What you are doing is a noble cause. I wish you keep writing for many decades to come. People like you make us feel that there is some light at the end of the long tunnel. I see that some of the reader’s comments could be really frustrating. It is good to hear that you get positive comments in private emails. All the very best and happy and peaceful New Year 2010!

    Thank You Marcus. I guess something snapped and I unburdened myself. All the best for 2010…….. DBSJ

  • 233. prabasputha  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:32 am

    Time to move on I guess.

  • 234. Curious  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:40 am

    DBSL – why do you think these leaders were killed instead of being caputured alive?
    Is it fear they would become martyrs?
    Wouldn’t the SLA get added mileage and score a brownie point if they go these senior leaders to sing?

    I cannot for once understand why a prize catch like VP was killed (unless ofcourse he actually died in combat) instead of being captured alive and then killed as is suspected.

    I am not directly involved in this confict but I have followed the rise and the eventual fall of the LTTE through what is out there in the mainstream media and now through your posts. I admit your inputs can only be from someone who indeed is very well connected – thus I’d like you to tell me your views on what I have mentioned above.
    I do not support the violence on both sides but I had always rooted for the LTTE whenever they pulled of a spectacular military victory against all odd (the airport raid etc.)… sort of an underdog thing…
    I used to refresh your weblog every 10 minutes during the final two days of the confict.. and for a moment I thought perhaps VP did manage to crawl out somehow. KP’s announcement had a share to blame for that confusion.

    I hope God eventually gifts this land and its people the grace and humility to live in peace…

  • 235. Tamilian  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:47 am

    good english writing skills and vocabulary

  • 236. Anonymous  |  December 30th, 2009 at 4:58 am

    # 218 David Blacker.

    Karuna and Pilliyan are the best operators the LTTE ever had. Since Karuna left the LTTE did not win one single battle against the Army.

    Now they are serving their people in the East,helping the development of Infrasrtucture ,Education, Jobs and Commerce.

    This must be like a needle in the eye for the pro Tigers.These two have done enough good to nullify bad Karma including Prabakaran.

  • 237. Tharaka  |  December 30th, 2009 at 5:38 am

    Even though this not directly related to this article a incident happened over facebook made me realized how collectivist tamil diaspora is.

    Oneday I commented on a facebook share on one of ex colleague FB page where he said commenting people distributing cool drinks remembering tamil youths death. It looked like organized by three wheeler guys I think. I said there is no ulterior motives there. They are just common people who try to give some sort of alms giving.

    It drew such a harsh replies some even accused denying genocide etc etc. Finally my friend removed me from his friend list. I think they collectively see Sinhalese as enemies. Some even have the notion that Sinhalese are of inferior intellect.

    I thought that will be the last I’m going have any conversation with a diaspora tamil. However I had very cordial discussions with Tamils living here in SL. I think with such vicious collective mind there can not any negotiations until such time they go beyond this group think.

  • 238. TCK  |  December 30th, 2009 at 5:43 am

    225. David Blacker: I suppose you are right David. But I also think if they really wanted to get rid of them, it could have been done in a more planned manner (by seperating the two from th rest. and executing seperately some time later)

    DBSJ: Thanks for the speedy response and updating the blog one last time before going to bed.

    I was not questioning if it is an intra-journalist or inter-journalist issue but merely how certain parties will use the information for things othern than to seek justice for the families of the departed.

    I came across an interesting saying (in a TV series called ‘Gossip Girl’ of all places) I donot know if this is original but thought to share this with you:
    ‘Sticks and stones may break bones but a poisoned pen is the best revenge’

    My friend sitting next to me at work read your article and was in tears.! She is a Sinhalese and has no compassion for the LTTE. But she says she felt for the kids and families. I read the same article and felt nothing. I am not proud of it. Maybe it is how I am wired or how 30 years of violence has conditioned me.

    But, l personally question how and why this issue should affect me personally and sadly it does…(maybe I can babble away more about it later..?)

    for now,
    Wish you and all fellow readers here a New Year full of Peace, Tranquility & Happiness..!

    Thank you and all the best for 2010…………..DBSJ

  • 239. Rathnavali  |  December 30th, 2009 at 5:48 am

    DBSJ, thank you for a very interesting article.

    Yes, I agree with your view that we cannot build a democratic society by hiding skeletons in the cupboard. Irrespective of what has happened in the past, I do believe that we Sinhalese must extend our hands to our Tamil brothers and sisters and make them feel that we TOGETHER form one “NATION”. This appears to be a difficult task, but I believe it can be done. What we need is a GENUINE strong leader who will not be swayed by political pressures and would do what is RIGHT for the sake of all Sri Lankans.

    Now we have before us another chance to create a country free of hatred, a country where all communities can live as ‘one’. But are those seeking to rule the country the correct people to seek our mandate? Do we have a choice?

    In my view, some of your comments appearing in this column is significant, in that it warns of an even greater danger looming ahead equivalent to the LTTE menace just vanquished. The following comment of yours ( a person who seems to be having an ‘ear to the ground’) is what I find alarming:

    “…Make no mistake. The execution of 600 policemen was ordered directly by Karuna with the concurrence of Prabhakaran.

    As for giving a “chance” to Douglas Karuna and Pillaiyaan. That’s fine as long as they have really and truly given up violence.

    While professing to be democratic Devananda continues to exercise an authoritarian grip on the Jaffna Tamils through violence and intimidation. If Prabhakaran wanted to be sole representative Devananda wants to be sole alternative. One form of LTTE tyranny is being replaced by another form of EPDP tyranny

    In the East the TMVP is continuing in the old ways of the LTTE albeit on a low -key. The Karuna-Pillaiyan split is leading to internecine violence. Karuna is blocking Pillaiyan in matters concerning the development of the east ….”

    What you have said here points out to more violence in the years to come. This situation is presently continuing under the regime of MR, who is either blind to what is happening or simply does not care. If we then, agree to a continuance of his regime, we are willing asking for more bloodshed. That is my personal view.

    Finally, I find it strange that India had nothing to do with the ’surrender of the LTTE”. They are still silent and does not seem to support the international community in war crimes accusations against MR and his govt. Could it be that they knew what was going to happen and preferred to remain silent in order to totally crush the LTTE? In which case, they may have their own covert operations against Sarath Fonseka, as India will not want their involvement in the annihilation of the LTTE to come to light.

  • 240. bob  |  December 30th, 2009 at 7:19 am

    192. Max Headroom

    An ass born to a lion and a pansala thug

  • 241. pravin  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:00 am

    may their soul rest in peace

    the tamil race will always remember mr nadesan and mr pulithevan..

    take care jeyaraj anne

    bye

  • 242. sittingnut  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:04 am

    dbs jeayaraj is ignorant and makes stuff up to look as if he knows . no sources etc.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    You want me to reveal sources so you can send the white van to make them disappear? You want me to identify my moles inside the armed forces? Take a hike!

    By the way you are the “Troll” who messed up the “Kothu” website comments section I hear. You are most welcome NOT to read me at all.

    You’ll be doing all of us a favour if you keep away

  • 243. Gamini  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:22 am

    Lies, damn lies and politics !

    DBS has as per usual jumped on the bandwagon at the first sign of a juicy story, sadly nothing here except a cunning soldier trying to become a cunning politician.

    DBS if your little tale is correct why doesnt the EU, UN and god know who else was supposed to be have been involved in this surrender come and say president promised safe surrender instead they were killed, only these half arsed journalists such as Mrs Colvin trying to sell papers.??

    Not a Grecian classic but the story is over, two sides, one war all leaders from one side finished because they beleived their own propaganda end of story. History is written by the victors.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    There is nothing “juicy” in a tale where people who surrendered with white flags after obtaining assurances from the Executive president were shot dead in cold blood by the Special Forces with a reputation for discipline and efficiency

    That you could describe such an incident as “juicy” reveals your character

    If as you say Marie Colvin (You guys use foul language to describe a woman) is wrong then why cant Mahinda deny her version publicly. Why cant he conduct an open probe if he has nothing to hide

    Yes history is usually written by the victors but there is always a subaltern perspective that provides alternative narratives

    Speaking of history being written by the victors what we are witnessing now is a clash between two people about who is responsible for the victory and who deserves cedit as the greatest victor

    So what we will see is a revision of history depending on who is victor at the polls

    This is what you call snatching defeat from the jaws of victory

  • 244. Rationalman1  |  December 30th, 2009 at 9:04 am

    Mr. Jeyaraj, I am sure you must have heard this before from others, I feel that I should include my voice to the chorus and call you an outstanding journalist.

    You have been a careful journalist, not prone to sensational headlines. I notice that you have changed your heading from being tentative to openly declaring that the Special Forces killed Nadesan and co. Have you got more information between the past two days to make it a solid accusation?

    Fonseka in his deniable denial about the Sunday Leader article accused, accused Gota the second time around of giving illegal commands to junior officers. And Gen. Sharvanada was very careful in his denial. He only denied that the 58th did not have anything to do with murder of Nadesan. Do these two statements corroborate your article?

    And why were Gen. Jagath Dias and Gen. Udaya Perera removed from active service as soon as the war ended and made Deputy Ambassadors to Germany and Malaysia. ? They were in the forefront of the action during the war and soon as it was over kicked out? Any reason?

    And do you still stand by your article about the death of Prabhakaran? What about the accusation against Gen Dias about torture and execution?

    Thanks

    I have not changed the heading in any way.Its the same……………..DBSJ

  • 245. J.Muthu  |  December 30th, 2009 at 9:36 am

    Dear DBS,
    ans220 regarding puleedevan, he is such a talented and very intelligent. If he left srilanka like other tamils he could be an accademeic in any prestigous university. Such brainy guy wasted his talent for our beloved tamil people. you are spot on.
    good luck wish you a happy new year, hope our people get some freedom they deserve this year.

  • 246. Karan  |  December 30th, 2009 at 9:45 am

    There is an old adage: “those who live by the sword die by the sword”.

    During the eighties LTTE invited TELO & EPRLF members for negotiation, then fired all of them in point blank. One of them was EPRLF leader Pathmanaba, He escaped and went to India but he was gun down in Indian soil by LTTE.

  • 247. S BASKARAN  |  December 30th, 2009 at 11:47 am

    Dear DBS,
    Thank you for letting the world know what happened during the last minutes of the war. Not only the LTTE leaders, many civilians were killed in similar manner. I know how the STF killed 5 young men in cold blood as a revenge to one of their collegue being shot. STF went into a rice mill and lined these innocent men and shot them dead. They were called LTTE cadres by the STF.

    STF, is responsible for many massacres of civilians in Batticoloa. They were called kola kotiya.

    I suspect there will be any justice in Sri Lanka. Even in the unlikely event of UNP comming to power , it will not proceed to punish the culprits.

    There is a another group of men and women who have sprung into action. These are the same men and women who were responsible for stealing the money and equipment which were donated to the poor after Tsunami and after the war in the east. It involves doctors pathetically.

    Please write an article to prevent money being misused by the same group of men and women again preventing any development to the North as well.

    Happy new year and keep on with your good work

  • 248. Revi unni  |  December 30th, 2009 at 11:54 am

    Dear DBSJ
    Thanks for such a well written article.Gandhi said once
    An eye for an eye will leave the whole nation blind,I still feel that Prabhakaran’s original sin was the Rajiv assasination
    and We all are still paying the price. Of course hind sight is far more illuminating than foresight. I do look forward to more from you incisive pen/key board
    REVI UNNI

  • 249. Mavady  |  December 30th, 2009 at 11:58 am

    As far as I heard and by reading this article what I can think is that surrender of these guys were arranged well and MR and his brothers willing to accept their surrender with genuine heart. That is why MR himself gave the promise to Nambiar, Nehru….etc regarding the guarantee of their safety and they hoped surrender would take place the hand of 58 division and GR phoned Shavendra Silva and asked him “surrender was to be accepted and their safety guaranteed”.

    Later GR informed to SF (who was in China) regarding the proposed surrender plan. Basically SF not like this proposal as that arrangement was not consulted with him earlier. He felt that his “Authority” was undermined. This situation SF gave instruction (from China) to Special Forces to move the scene of surrender and told the junior officers to “sort these guys out”. I think SF was culprit of this massacre. MR is innocent criminal. I’m sure that commander of Special Forces Regiment Col.Athula Kodipilli has much more information and he has to clarify the circumstance that how his forces deployed the surrender scene.

    Whatever happened, promise gave by president to UN envoy Nambiar was not honoured. Did Nambiar seriously question this incident back to GOSL? Not really; but he help GOSL to cover up this story. Probably GOSL offered nice bed to him to sleep while he was in SL. MR could dig out the truth and punish whoever involved but that will back fire his election result. SF trying to be a good boy and open this story back; but that created critical situation to him now. I hope MR will do the independent inquiry after the election. May be it could be the bagger’s believe.

    The truth is IC was blind eye just passing the lip service and encouraged this war and waiting to see the LTTE end. They did not take any prompt actions to stop the blood bath. They did not take any prompt action to stop this war without witness. There is no moral perfect. Organisations such as UN, is there to protect western interests. If there were any substantial benefit for them, they could have applied R2P. King punishes soon. God will punish later. We need to have an independent inquiry and whoever committed crimes have to be punished.

    Hi DBS, I know most of your readers very decent. But some of them (comments like 29,192) are writing filthy. Could you please kindly filter out these comments? As many readers are ladies and young people; better not to have these disgusting comments.Thanks.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I think Sarath Fonseka was back in Colombo when this happened. His China trip was from May 10th – 17th

    As for the obscene comments I deliberately released them in a bid to shame those who wrote them and make them refrain from doing so in the future

    It worked with some in the past.Let’s see whether it will now

  • 250. Shyam  |  December 30th, 2009 at 12:39 pm

    # 189. Rohan, I understand your predicament.

    When you say “I can live with this kind of justice” there are others who cannot.

    Especially for e.g. the Tamils who played by the rule and law and order, but were badly affected in govt. inspired pogroms of 1958 onwards. Many of them left the country and struggle with cultural loss of being away from Sri Lanka.

    The Tamil families are torn apart by tears of oceans, as the uprooting of Tamils continued over the opast 3 decades due to GoSL and LTTE fighting.

    What is your answer to all those Tamils homes that were looted in 1983? who didn’t have anything to do with Thirunelveli-Jaffna attacks that are blamed on by some Sinhalese for as justification.

    HR organizations and others highlight the situation of the leaders, not to justify the ‘crimes’ of these LTTE leaders, but then they do realize what the common Tamil will be facing under the chauvinistic rule.

  • 251. Wijitha Fernando  |  December 30th, 2009 at 12:41 pm

    This is further to my comment No.67.

    Dear Jeyaraj

    You haven’t got my comment correctly.
    In the Paragraph
    “A tiny group of 12-15 led by Nadesan and Pulidevan had gone first followed by a second group of 35-40 at a distance. They were all unarmed and carrying white flags.”;

    You said that both groups were un armed

    But in the paragraph
    “Some of the injured cadres put up a last ditch stand fighting with dwindling ammunition. They were reportedly led by Ramesh and Ilango who died a heroic death facing fearful odds

    Many consumed cyanide or blew themselves up with grenades.”

    You said that some of them in two groups fought back with dwindling ammunitions and many blew themselves up with grenades.

    You also said that those figting cadres were led by Ramesh and Ilango who were in the second group

    Could you please explain how those unarmed persons had guns, ammunition and granades.

    It is not difficult to logically establish what actually happened.

    LTTE planed to breake through SLA defences by posing as surrundees

    First group came with white flag carrying LTTE leaders.

    Second group came with LTTE cadres who had consealed weapons.

    Special Forces detected those consealed weapns and started firing.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Earlier I thought you had misunderstood but now I see you are wilfully misinterpreting what has been written.

    You have ignored some sentences I wrote in an attempt to project your theories in defence of the SF

    Now I dont have to explain each and every sentence I write particularly to those with an agenda

    What I wrote was -

    When the Ramesh-Ilango led second group of 35-40 following behind saw what was happening they simply started running back.

    A few SF personnel gave chase firing on the fleeing men,women and children and commanding them to stop.Many were hit and fell.

    Thereafter the Special Forces moved forward and launched an assault on the tiny enclave where the remaining people were staying.

    Some of the injured cadres put up a last ditch stand fighting with dwindling ammunition. They were reportedly led by Ramesh and Ilango who died a heroic death facing fearful odds

    —————————–

    Ilango and Ramesh must have escaped and led the last ditch defence. Obviously they would have had weapons and some ammunition where they were staying

    It was supposedly a very small area. All events happened within 100-150 metres I think

    Please dont let me prevent you from stating your interpretations of the event in a bid to absolve the Special forces and blame the victims for their predicament

    Also ask Mahinda to conduct a credible probe into the incident. You will attain enlightenment then I think

  • 252. Francis Drake  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:08 pm

    I think President Rajapaksa should have an inquiry about what happened

  • 253. lankaputhra  |  December 30th, 2009 at 1:32 pm

    In 1971, lots of young lives were lost due to arbitrary killing by the forces. No body protested or challenged. Then in late eighties, the same thing happened in a larger scale. Human write were brutally violated. Villages were massacred and exhibited to people to terrorize them. Nobody challenged them and the international community was dead silent.

    During the Elam war, what has happened is cited world over by media. But this time International community is divided in opinion. Now enough is enough. If no sensible action is taken and wrong doers are not exposed and punished, again and again future Sri Lankan generations are going to face same kind of human right violations/war crimes/arbitrary killings etc.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    In 1971 Bishop Lalshman Wickremasinghe, Regi Siriwardena, S. Nadesan, Suriya Wickremasinghe etc formed the civil rights movement after the JVP insurgency and protested the human right violations

    In 1989 there were a lot who protested the human rights violations including Mahinda Rajapakse and Mangala Samaraweera

    Why are the JVP and ex – JVP guys like Somawansa and Weerawansa not demanding an inquiry into those human rights violations, punishment for the guilty and compensation for victim families. Why are the JVP and other Sinhala politicians silent on this?

    The price of liberty is eternal vigilance

    Our rights are being gradually eroded

  • 254. Nostradamus  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:05 pm

    229 # jcnars

    If i could (El Condor Pasa) by Simon Garfunkel and Blowing in the wind by Bob Dylan are two of my old favorites. I guess the sparrow here is identified with freedom.

    The nursery rhyme in the article beautifully illustrates the scenario.

    If i could ( lyrics)

    I’d rather be a sparrow than a snail.
    Yes I would.
    If I could,
    I surely would.

    I’d rather be a hammer than a nail.
    Yes I would.
    If I only could,
    I surely would.

    CHORUS
    Away, I’d rather sail away
    Like a swan that’s here and gone
    A man gets tied up to the ground
    He gives the world
    Its saddest sound,
    Its saddest sound.

    I’d rather be a forest than a street.
    Yes I would.
    If I could,
    I surely would.

    I’d rather feel the earth beneath my feet,
    Yes I would.
    If I only could,
    I surely would.

  • 255. ranka devid  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:07 pm

    mahinda would have loved to get his hands on some LTTE front men, specially someone like Pulidevan , whom he would have ear marked for his future political plans. The saga of Soosei’s family highlights this fact. The Government was over the moon when Daya master and George surrendered.Even With a price kill like that of Theepan they did not achieve that much of publicity points…. it is reasonable to think that the presidents wish or the command was not considered in all these….

    Whom do you think flouted the President’s wishes and if so did the President punish the culprits?…….DBSJ

  • 256. mavady  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

    # 250

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I think Sarath Fonseka was back in Colombo when this happened. His China trip was from May 10th – 17th.

    Yes. You are right. I overlooked the days of SF’s stay was in China.Sorry. Wherever he was that time he deplored special forces over there with sinister motive. That is why I think. We will wait and see as more news to come.

  • 257. Param  |  December 30th, 2009 at 2:55 pm

    Hi Jeyaraj,
    I have been reading you from “Manchari” days (golden period of Tamil Canadian journalism).

    I have two questions.

    1 Was Mr Prabhakaran alive during the surrender episode?
    2 Was Mr Prabhakaran’s youngest son (Balachandran) part of the team lead by nadesan?

    Thanks,
    Param

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    VP was in another area at the time. He too died in the early hours of May 18th morning. His death may have been around the same time

    Balachandran was not with Nadesan’s group

    Good to hear someone remembering “Muncharie”

  • 258. Confused Confucius  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:02 pm

    Dear DBS,
    It’s quite moving to know that you are doing part time jobs to fund your journalism. I could quite easily say that there will be a lot of well wishers if you put a donation button on top (did I miss it if it’s already there), but my only fear would be, that it will cause a conflict of interest and make things more murky and messy.

    I didn’t know that canadians were poor, I thought they were rich. Why don’t you come to England for a change (thats a 2009 joke).

    Could you please write about the Tamil Canadians which I believe won’t cost much. I heard it is like watching a Holywood movie, in Slave Island and eating Puttu and Baabath i.e. Thrilling. Also about Pottu Amman and VP.

    It’s quite sad what has befallen on the land we were born. Power hunger has caused such a paranoia. That we are shattered all over the world.

  • 259. Fran  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:03 pm

    #218
    “Let’s hope that one day both Karuna & Pilliyan will get what they deserve. The SL brand of karma is never too far away, as we have always seen.”

    People pay for their karma, during the process others collect karma to be paid for later, cycle goes on. Then why innocents and children have to pay for this. Well, may be they collected karma previous birth. What a sad cycle we are in.
    Then what is good or evil. What can not be repeated to my children, not good for anyone else.
    What rights I enjoy, do not take it away from another individual or group.

    If Sri lankan brand of karma continues, there will be not any humankind, we can only spot the island from the space, a tiny bright red spot.

  • 260. Voltaire  |  December 30th, 2009 at 3:46 pm

    To ALL Sri Lankans: “Vive la difference” – (let us) “Celebrate Difference” (and thereby make it possible to rebuild a peaceful, united and prosperous Sri Lanka)!!!

  • 261. Nehru G  |  December 30th, 2009 at 4:23 pm

    Singala racists try to object your writing truth and spread lies about surnedered tiger leaders been shooting dead by army. dont pay attention to them dbs annai

  • 262. Gnanam  |  December 30th, 2009 at 4:23 pm

    #249
    “Prabhakaran’s original sin was the Rajiv assasination” ?

    For me personally, VP’s original sin was when he ordered the killing of Mr Anandarajah – the then prinicipal of Jaffna St John’s College.

    Until that fateful day the conflict was a sideshow for most of us who were too young to comprehend the evils acts commited by both sides.

    I feel that there was a moment-in-time for each of us when the ‘troubles’ started.

  • 263. Kumar  |  December 30th, 2009 at 4:52 pm

    When there was injustice against Tamils and Tamils were considered as second-class citizens (during JR Jeyawardana era) brave Tamil youths have joined various groups to fight against state. Who ever these youths may be (Prabaha, Karuna, Soosai, Pottu, Douglas, Pillayan etc) should be respected by Tamil community. In due course, the struggle against injustice had changed into atrocity. Mainly due to Tamil Diaspora who were not brave enough to join the arms struggle have hijacked the LTTE agenda. They had provided false direction to LTTE and responsible for demise of LTTE. Instead of paying homage to the fallen LTTE leaders they are continuing to misguide Tamils. Exile government or Vaddukotai resolution will not bring any solutions to Tamils living in Srilanka.

  • 264. bob  |  December 30th, 2009 at 4:56 pm

    261. Voltaire |

    Politicians cannot build up a Peaceful & Prosperous SL. Only Peoples vote can build -by choosing the Right one. I am not in either SF or MR Camp.bcoz both are war criminalsd according to the Int’l Law

    DBSJ – a Qick Q ?
    So far in the Presidential Election everyone got the required 50% or above . MR is the one who got the lowest %- thats why he is shaking and very soon many wood jump from the sinking ship.
    For arguments sake MR Gets 48% & SF gets 42 % or vise versa what will happen – A Re election ??
    ** PS ** I thought you were with Senthamari while George K was with Thaayakam **

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    There will be a re-count if no one gets 50% +1 on the first count. The candidates with small number of votes will be elimnated and their second preference votes will be added on to the leading candidates and a winner will be found

    I was with Senthamarai till starting “Muncharie”

  • 265. Sam Lank  |  December 30th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    Too bad if this was true, but bottom line is LTTE terrorists and its leadership encouraged, planned, and executed most dreadful killings our generations ever heard of. This was the reason why they were banned by civilized countries and why there was no energy to save them from total annihilation. Fight for so called “Tamil Cause” induced induction and reasoning of “collateral damage” in buses, farms, schools, trains, and even at homes of most moderate and brilliant Tamil politicians.

    They killed people like killing ants. No surprise the return “collateral damage” to LTTE has happened as writer described. You can argue the level of cruelty which pretty high in this case if true, but not higher as on many situations we have seen including massacres in Buddhist temples and Muslim mosques. Remeber Aranthalawa, where the followers of these “white flag carrying leaders” stabbed 30 some innocent Buddhist monks? I wonder where were all these “independent and balanced” writers, UN and all other nations at that time.

    So the “collateral damage” was done to both parties. Now let’s look at the results. No more massacres, no more bombs, no more fighting. SL GOV should start working hard to uplift Tamils and their future generation without a delay. These so called leaders of LTTE already destroyed their own future generations (remember baby brigades? Converting schools to war-games?) I do not give a sh—.t about pully or mully or any bast..d LTTE leader. They deserve not to live.

    But I do care about innocent Tamils and also innocent Sinhalese who were destroyed by Tamil terror for over 30 years. Enough talking what has happened, or you go back to cover all 30 years and start talking about all killings. We all want to focus our energy now on the future of the country. Too bad things happened, but it was fantastic terrorists are over, and their killing leadership machine has been destroyed. Good for the civilized world!

  • 266. R.Veera  |  December 30th, 2009 at 6:47 pm

    Anpulla annan DBS,
    Tell me How they killed all Ltte top brass kids, including Vps and other tops.
    Do you beleive there is a solution in srilanka and tamils can live peacefully in their own homes? I beleived tamilealam, only solutiuon for tamilss? do you agree or not?

  • 267. Voltaire  |  December 30th, 2009 at 7:20 pm

    # 264. bob | December 30th, 2009 at 4:56 pm

    261. Voltaire |

    Politicians cannot build up a Peaceful & Prosperous SL. Only Peoples vote can build -by choosing the Right one. I am not in either SF or MR Camp.bcoz both are war criminalsd according to the Int’l Law

    REPEAT:
    To ALL Sri Lankans: “Vive la Difference” – (let us) “Celebrate Difference” (and thereby make it possible to rebuild a peace, united and prosperous Sri Lanka)!!!

    COMMENT to “Bob”:
    Voltaire was NOT referring to elections or any other short-sighted device or machination. We Sri Lankans – minorities and majority alike – must stop navel gazing and look towards rebuilding our common, shared future and heritage in our shattered land; and then and only then can we prosper, develop and reach our full potential as citizens of what can become a veritable paradise on earth.

  • 268. Govirala  |  December 30th, 2009 at 7:55 pm

    # 192 Max Headroom.You are a pathetic low life.I don’t think you are in Srilanka.Your feral comments are hurting all Srilankans,mainly Sinhalese unless your ulterior motive is to discredit Sinhala people.

    Most of the commentators here are descent people who express their views with logic and cool heads.I do not believe you aree capable of that.

    So get on you bike and p… o…

  • 269. Indika  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    I agree with David Blacker. If SF or whoever ordered it ,what was needed strategically was had been accomplished.
    It’s clear that troops had been very descriminatory.
    In this type of scenario no army will let the opposite top brass survive the final offensive and keep the battle for another day.

  • 270. shankar  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    I am a little puzzled by the fact that if indeed SF had given the order to the special forces to sabotage the surrender proceedings as some commentators are implying, then why did he bring out his accusation that Gota had given the orders to shoot them. It would be in his interest as well as everybody’s to keep mum on this issue.

    His actions do not constitute that of a guilty man. There is more to this than meets the eye. Initially was there a sincere word given by Mahinda and subsequently a shift in his stance due to some advice he received.

    Mahinda and Gota asking people to surrender and shooting them also does not make sense. They could have easily killed them on the battefield.

  • 271. Jayan  |  December 30th, 2009 at 8:36 pm

    During President Premadasa’s time the LTTE killed 800 unarmed policemen who surrendered in Elephant Pass. Premadasa ordered tham to surrender after getting asuarance from the LTTE. Did any one charged for war crimes? The laws of war apply only to conventional warfare. When you fight the terrerists, there are no accepted laws. Its a well known secret that Mahinda and Gotabhaya caved into western pressure and perhaps bribes too and wanted to spare the lives of the LTTE leaders. Fotunately Sarath Fonseka ignored their orders and finish-off the terrosists. But unfortunately he just can’t keep his big mouth shut. Most importantly now we don’t have to warry about bombs going off in Sri Lanka.

  • 272. Chennai_Analyst  |  December 30th, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    Hi DBS Sir. I had raised some queries with you yesterday. I did some web searching and came across a UTHR doc which says that Praba and 18 of his Bodyguard were Executed. They quote Karuna and others. Is this all true?
    Now if the Sri Lankan govt were to have indeed executed Praba and family, means that they did not want Praba falling into Indian hands for Rajiv’s Killing. Would it mean then that the Sri Lankan govt too were somehow involved in Rajiv’s Killing or complicit? After all the Sinhala Sailor guy who hit Rajiv was let go and all charges on him dropped and he made a hero. Some in India believe that there were other forces at work. The Tigers were not loose mouthed people. They were a highly secretive lot. How would Yasser Arafat get word of a Plot against Rajiv in March 1991, and warn Rajiv about it? It all sounds like a Cloak & Dagger stuff
    Sir, if you have more news on this can you elaborate in a write-up if you can. Thanks

  • 273. Pandu Ramanayake  |  December 30th, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    Dear DBS,
    You, as anyone of us, is bound to have certain biases, opinions and unique perspectives. Expecting a political analyst to be unbiased is almost expecting him not to be human. Yet your recent articles on SF, Gota etc. indicates that you have chosen a side on the upcoming elections. You may of course deny it but I think you are way more intelligent not to know the impact of your recent writings which are slanted to absolve a group of war criminals while indicting another. The end result is that we will end up with a group of war criminals as our leaders rather than one of them.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I have kept on repeating ad nauseam that no point of view can be termed as neutral.If you take a stand on an issue it cannot be neutral.The point is that I try and treat an issue on its merits alone. I am non – aligned in approaching an issue but may adopt a point of view after delving into it.Its as simple as that and I just dont understand all this furore about bias, unbias etc

    On another point , I think you are misunderstanding what I write because you are viewing it through this prism of presidential elections. You should not rush to jdgements based on one or two articles.Wait and see

    You must also look at nuances. If you take this particular article for instance I am critical of Fonseka for trying to draw a red herring across the trail due to vindictiveness. But fundamentally the finger of guilt points all the way to the top right up to Mahinda Rajapakse. Complicity on the part of Vijay Nambiar also cannot be ruled out

    About being ruled by war criminals the sad reality is that we are going to be ruled by them for a long,long time. People get the leaders they deserve. After vilifying Wickremasinghe unfairly as a traitor for trying to resolve the crisis through peaceful means and describing war-mongers as patriots there is indeed poetic justice in being ruled by war-criminals

    The choice nowadays is between tweedledum and tweedledee.A proven devil and untested devil. But no doubt devils

    THere wont be any constructive change. Perhaps cosmetic.The more things may seem to have changed they will remain the same

    As for your other point I do think you are exaggerating the impact of my writing. It’s flattering to hear that my writing has power to make or unmake Presidents but it is simply not true

  • 274. anton  |  December 30th, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    DBSJ,
    Your article made me to think that you are good spin master.

    Wow!Do you think I am as good as Murali?………..DBSJ

  • 275. yours truly  |  December 30th, 2009 at 10:57 pm

    Now we know; at least we think we know how Nadesan, Pulidevan, Ramesh etc died.

    What happened to Pottu Amman?

    Do the war crimes not apply to his disappearence?

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Killing or being killed in combat is not a war-crime. Neither is committing hara-kiri. But cold-blooded execution of surrendees with white flags is a war – crime

  • 276. Kushan Peiris  |  December 30th, 2009 at 11:21 pm

    haha…DBS …why are you deleting our comments?

    Because what you post is disgusting and revolting…………..DBSJ

  • 277. jcnars  |  December 30th, 2009 at 11:35 pm

    The following comment 242 doesn’t indicate where the fool Sittingnut’s comments end and where DBSJ’s comments begin…

    242. sittingnut | December 30th, 2009 at 8:04 am
    dbs jeayaraj is ignorant and makes stuff up to look as if he knows . no sources etc.

    You want me to reveal sources so you can send the white van to make them disappear? You want me to identify my moles inside the armed forces? Take a hike!

    By the way you are the “Troll” who messed up the “Kothu” website comments section I hear. You are most welcome NOT to read me at all.

    You’ll be doing all of us a favour if you keep away

    Thanks for pointing this out.It has now been rectified…………DBSJ

  • 278. Don  |  December 31st, 2009 at 12:31 am

    DBS response to comment 211. “You cant build a new nation based on cover ups, deceit and lies………”

    Please forgive my ignorance, but I haven’t seen a Nation built on truth alone with no cover-ups lies etc., each of us perceives truth in different ways. Sometimes it is better to allow the truth to lie as it is rather than to stir the pot. 3 examples out of hundreds,

    In WW2, 1944 British intelligence parachuted 13 agents into occupied France. They were captured by Gestapo due to stuff up by BI. They were tortured and killed with about 40 accomplices. One of the agents was the son of a British Commander. Late 1944, both UK and USA army were rehearsing for seaborne invasion, south of UK. Advance radar units spotted German planes but was too slow to raise the alarm. In consequence 2500 allied serviceman perished. Werner Von Braun was a brilliant German scientist who made V1 and V2 flying bombs for Germans using slave labor. Therefore he was considered a war criminal and breached Geneva Convention. But end of war, he was spirited to USA to become the man who put the first man to space for USA. The free world was told about these incidents about 20 years after! This is how these two nations came to be built after a devastating war. They told the truth only when it was convenient and when it did not pose a threat to reconciliation and rebuilding of their countries.

    Some of these war time cover ups have been recently serialised on ABC TV in Australia.

    Indira Gandhi said “freedom of speech and action is a luxury in a developing nation” Meaning. they may need to be curtailed at certain times for the development of a nation.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    What you are talking about is warfare between established nation states. This is an internal conflict.

    Some of us are talking about re-inventing and re-building a NEW Sri lanka based on truth and reconciliation,justice and equality, peace and amity

    Others want to carry on the divisive destructive policies as usual with a few attributing lofty motives to their continuing with the status quo

    If you think the “pot should not be stirred” you should ask this govt to stop all its activities against suspected LTTE or pro-LTTE persons immediately. Dismantle the security zones, close down most military camps,reduce military personnel, release all LTTE suspects in custody, return child conscripts to their parents, re-settle the people in their old places, stop arresting people for alleged complicity with LTTE activity in the past etc

    While the govt continues to “stir the pot” by continuous acts like this people like you say “dont stir the pot” when war crimes by the army are spotlighted and justice is sought

  • 279. R Maran  |  December 31st, 2009 at 1:22 am

    Nadesan and Pulidevan backed war criminal VP to the last minute. They don’t deserve any sympathy from us.

    These were the people supported VP when he was holding 300,000 Tamils as human shield for his own protection. When more than 35,000 Tamils were killed in the height of the war, Nadesan and Pulidevan suffered no scratches.. Hiding well deep inside of the human shield.

    I still remember, when Nadesan replied to question on the remark made by MK on killing of other liberation movement fighters by LTTE, He said, “LTTE killed traitors”. Pulidevan claimed “George and Thaya masters are a no longer active LTTE member, that’s why they surrendered to SLA”. Within a month from this comments he made, he surrendered himself to SLA.

    “Thoraga Pulligal” and their leaders don’t deserve any sympathy. It is our people suffered the most. War criminals were killed by war criminals. I am pleased with this at least justice served 50%.

    Time will come for war criminals MR, SF and GR to face the international war crime tribunals for killing innocent Tamils.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    The point is not whether these tigers were bad and deserved their fate but that of the conduct of the govt and armed forces. These guys were executed in cold blood after surrendering with white flags consequent to guarantees of safety from President Rajapakse and UN chief of staff. That is the issue here

    Another point is that if these guys deserve this kind of “justice” then why are people like Karuna and Pillaiyan who also have a lot of blood on their hands not getting “Justice”?

    Why are you not looking at this from a principled perspective?

    If the LTTE executes in cold blood its terrorism but if the army does its patriotism is it?

  • 280. Gnana  |  December 31st, 2009 at 1:32 am

    Its high time Tamil diaspora should wake up and face the realities at the ground level. They cant afford to be disillusioned any longer.Justice will always prevail Thanks Mr DBS for writing this heart breaking story.

  • 281. Liyanage  |  December 31st, 2009 at 2:16 am

    I have no sympathy for the LTTE leaders including Nadesan, Pulidevan and Ramesh regardless they were carrying white flags. But I feel for the innocent women and children. If I was in command of the SF forces at that time I would have separated them into two groups, women and children in one and the leaders in another where the first group would be sent to the closest rehabilitation camp and the latter would be forced to swallow the Cyanide. That is whay they preached child soldiers and they should have been treated with their own medicine.

  • 282. Pandu Ramanayake  |  December 31st, 2009 at 3:12 am

    Further to your response to 273, journalist/ analyst do have the ability of making or breaking campaigns. A simple glance at the main slogan of the incumbent regime…the so called “Maha Pavadeema” based on the Sunday Leader story of alleged killing of LTTE leaders is testament to that. While hailing you for your informative, thought provoking articles and continuous endeavours to seek the truth I sincerely wish that your actions, however sincere, would not contribute to the prolonging of our suffering in Sri Lanka under this dictatorial regime. As you say “people get the leaders they deserve”, but please don’t forget that sometimes they make their choices based on what many like you tell them.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Not quite

    In 2005 I wrote articles critical of Mahinda before prez elections. I also wrote that LTTE should not enforce boycott because it would lead to Mahindas victory which would be bad for Tamils

    But did anyone listen?

    So please dont repeat this fallacy

    By the way it was not the Sunday Leader that created the controversy. It was Sarath who said things and then backtracked thus strengthening the opponents hand

    In your anger and haste in kicking out a family of rascals you may bring in another rascal who’ll turn out into a dictator

  • 283. Navin  |  December 31st, 2009 at 4:55 am

    282. Pandu Ramanayake:

    hmmm….. I thought SF & UNF are dying to restore freedom of expression and media freedom on our behalf— doesn’t that not imply DBSJ should be free to write whatever he wants regardless of the consequences??? :D

  • 284. Mavady  |  December 31st, 2009 at 5:42 am

    • 262 # Gnanam
    #249 “Prabhakaran’s original sin was the Rajiv assasination” ?
    Hi Gnanam. I think we are not talking about VP’s sin that is endless story. We are talking to the fate of Nadesan, Pulithevan & others with them. Even Though they are the members of LTTE, that point in time they are un-armed people came for surrender based on the guarantee provided by the Excellency president. You know what happened later. This civilised world cannot accept this barbaric act and noone cannot justify this incident.

  • 285. Raj  |  December 31st, 2009 at 5:47 am

    DBSJ,
    Good article & I can see 283 opinions. Please keep writing. Wishing you and all Lankan happy and peaceful new year. May this new year makes this land for equal opportunity & respect to all Lankan

    Thank you and wish you all the best for 2010…………DBSJ

  • 286. Sirimevan Costa  |  December 31st, 2009 at 6:13 am

    DBSJ, you have shown the 3 terroritsts in civil clothes (in fact in full attire). I note even Col Ramesh is in a suit. They look really smart and cultured

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Those pix were already available on the internet.We have only reproduced them.Its nice to see usually uniformed people in civilian dress. Does not Sarath Fonseka look like a typical Sinhala mudalaali in his new white garb?But Nadesan and Pulidevan have been in civilian dress for a very long time

  • 287. jagan sriram  |  December 31st, 2009 at 7:27 am

    dear jey,
    wish you and our regular set of commentators a happy and prosperous english new year.
    bye see you next year

    DBSJ RESPONDS;
    What about our irregular set of commentators? no wishes for them?
    just kidding!

    Thank you and wish you the best for 2010

  • 288. Tharaka  |  December 31st, 2009 at 7:36 am

    Hey “Brave Sri Lankan” , You are a bloody idiot. Im writing with my real name. Disclose your name if you have a spine. Useless Donkey.

  • 289. Hakeem  |  December 31st, 2009 at 7:41 am

    These bastards should be killed. I do not see any wrong thing in killing these LTTE terrorits. they got what they deserve.why sholud we apply Geneva convention to LTTE. when LTTE do not adhered.

    They chased out entire muslim community from Notthern province within two hours. Muslims were not allowed to take their belongings. only SLR50.00 allowed to take. even the jewelleries LTTE rob. why do we need to show sympathy.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    You are neither Hakeem nor a Muslim. I have a strong hunch who you are. Dont engage in this type of false posting

  • 290. MW  |  December 31st, 2009 at 8:20 am

    What are the differents between a soldier and a murderer? That are the rules. There are national and international rules. The army und die Goverment must implement the rules. Have they done so? They had time 6 Month all along.
    11,000 – 12,000 individuals (including children) suspected of links to the LTTE have been arrested in irregular detention facilities. Where are the rules?

    Thank you for a very interesting article. But there are unlowful killings and enforced disappearances of Journalists. Where are whose article? Where are the rules?
    The current treatment of displaced ethnic Tamil civilians by the Sri Lankan government, combined with an ongoing culture of impunity, will serve only to foment future conflict. If communities that have been torn apart by decades of violence and impunity are to be reconciled, the Sri Lankans should initiate internal reforms and seek international assistance to prevent ongoing violations and ensure real accountability for abuses of last 30 Years.
    Where are the rules?
    No rules no peace.

  • 291. Sam Lank  |  December 31st, 2009 at 8:53 am

    Dear DBS, as we all know, these white flag carrying LTTE leadership killed or ordered to kill hundreds of surrendered police and army officers during Premadasa era. Now that was a war crime correct? This means international community and media should have fought for a war criminal investigation at that time correct? Now, we have a speculated war criminal charges against the “war criminals” of killing war criminals? Should some relative’s of those police and army officers who were murdered cold blooded, petition UN or go to international courts (charge Philip Alston for not doing so?) to start a war criminal investigation on war criminals who got killed by new “war criminals”? Is it possible to take UN or any other governing body to courts on such a count?

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    “Col” Karuna who ordered and supervised these executions is now the nation building minister in this govt. I suggest you contact him to get answers to your very pertinent questions. He is in a unique position to answer you

  • 292. some thaught  |  December 31st, 2009 at 8:59 am

    srilankan democracy is whatever the majority race do their minorities, simply they have adopt to live with it, numerous state sponsored killings and riots unleashed on Tamils time to time, but the lankan state come victories un scrutinised by any body.

    Tamil people also started accept it and live with it, this what also advocated by the “Tamil politicians” and the “Tamil intellectuals”.

    If it worked for srilanka this model can be applied to any rough states to full fill their agenda, well-done Lanka and rajabaksa regime, Sarath played his part too.

    Now the thriumpen Sinhala regimes and the blood thirsty Sinhala masses can do whatever they want with help of some opportunistic Tamil “leaders”.

  • 293. bob  |  December 31st, 2009 at 9:06 am

    265. Sam Lank

    But the State Terrorism is continuing.. Thuggery Doc Merv
    White vans Opposition bashing…..Nepotism…Is this acceptable ?

  • 294. dilshan f  |  December 31st, 2009 at 9:10 am

    Dear DBSJ,

    Thought i would respond after much thought. Firstly let me wish you a happy and peaceful new year.

    Secondly, your ref to ‘LTTE leaders’ and ’surrendered’ and ‘White flags’ and war crimes.
    It is my opinion that much violence has been unleashed upon this land for 30 years or more. We in the south of Sri Lanka has seen many bomb blasts and murders. I have no doubt that the people of the north suffered at the hands of the GOSL and the LTTE. Your ref and the world at large ref to ’surrender’ baffles me. Where do we put in a category for people whose lives were snuffed out in a minute or second. They did not have a chance to surrender or find a white flag did they? Where do you fit in people who were hacked? I am not a great fan of the LTTE nor the people you mention who came out with white flags. They too were responsible for many crimes. Yet you say they deserve protection under the standard convention of war and those who broke them to be tried for war crimes. I do not say that they deserve to die too.

    What I am saying now is that we have peace. for once we have a blessed christmas. Its time to move on. One cannot just go back in time and stop at the last escalation of violence and say now lets start the war crimes from here onwards.

    How far do we want to roll back the clock. to the time when Karuna killed the cops? or to a time when Central bank was bombed. oer perhaps the Arantalawa massacre or the dollar and kent farms massacre.

    I want to move forward and I know that perpertrator of voilence will still be at large when I die. from ex LTTE in Europe and Others here in Sri Lanka.

    Its time to forgive forget and move on.
    Thats my responce. Good luck and may God bless you with health and happiness in the year to come.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Dear Dilshan

    The point is not whether these tigers were bad and deserved their fate but that of the conduct of the govt and armed forces. These guys were executed in cold blood after surrendering with white flags consequent to guarantees of safety from President Rajapakse and UN chief of staff. That is the issue here

    Another point is that if these guys deserve this kind of “justice” then why are people like Karuna and Pillaiyan who also have a lot of blood on their hands not getting “Justice”?

    Please look at this from a principled perspective.

    This killing is but one of the many incidents that occurred during this war. The atrocities conducted by the LTTE and Armed forces were many. I think it is the duty of all decent people to expose at least some of them where possible

    Forgiving and forgetting is indeed a noble thought. We must certainly do so and reconcile and move on

    But one can forgive and forget only if the perpetrators are contrite and admit their guilt and offences

    If you say sorry after hitting me and really repent I will forgive you and forget . But when you dont do so and what is more gloat about or deny that you have wronged me then I cannot be expected to forgive you. If I say I do in that situation then I am only displaying my cowardice

    But what we are seeing is a govt that arrogantly refuses to admit lapses and blatantly denies that no war crimes or crimes against humanity were committed

    On the other hand we see eminent persons claiming that as the armed forces defeated the tigers they cannot be questioned. Citing conduct of the allies after world war 2 they say there is only victors justice and refuse to countenance requests by various human rights organizations that alleged war crimes should be investigated

    They state brazenly that history is written by the victors

    They may be right . The main story so far about the war victory is being written by the victors. Unfortunately there is a dispute about who the greatest victor is and so El presidente and generallissimo are engaged in another war

    Now history will be revised according to the victor in this fight

    As far as this incident is concerned the govt says it never happened and faults Fonseka as a great betrayer for referring to it.

    But on the question of vistors writing history this may have been possible in another age. But history has many dimensions. There are subaltern perspectives of history with other narratives

    Let the big,powerful victors write the “main” greater narrative. But little,powerless people like me will write “alternative”lesser narratives also

    The only strength and courage in writing them is a firm conviction that the truth should be told

    History is replete with instances of small people questioning the diktat of powerful people .

    Speaking truth to power is also derived from the Prophetic tradition in the Bible

    Those days when I criticised the LTTE there were many well-meaning Tamils who advised me not to do so in the larger interests of the Tamil people

    I would answer saying I am doing so in the larger interests of the Tamil people

    Sadly I have been proven right

    Likewise I do feel that the faults of the govt and armed forces need to be pinpointed also

    May be I’ll be proven right

    For six months I waited patiently for this govt to adopt the healing process and reconcile with the battered and shattered Tamils

    But it did NOT happen

    We are seeing the dance of triumphalism continue. This presidential election is a distorted extension of triumphalism

    In my case I can only write about a few incidents that I have knowledge about.

    This I will continue to do

    Those days when my Tamil friends advised me not to write on some matters I respectfully declined and said NO

    Now I have to tell people like you also “NO”.

    I am sure you will understand

    You are one of the people I have come to like and respect after interacting on this blog. Hence this long response

    Wish you all the very best for 2010

    PS: If we are to forget the past and move on why is Tissa still in jail for writing articles many years ago in a magazine that only sold 50 copies? Was he your contemporary at College?

  • 295. odda vediya vaal  |  December 31st, 2009 at 9:12 am

    Let’s forget about surrendered TELO carders who were burnt alive. Let’s forget about surrendered EPRLF carders who were killed in captivity. Let’s forget about Amirthalingam who was killed during “negotiations”. Let’s forget about atrocities committed to LTTE (Karuna) carders in Verugal by pretending to be surrendering with a white flag. But can we know fate of the LTTE carders who were with Karuna and subsequently surrendered on the assurance given to a Christian priest that they will not be harmed?

  • 296. Fran  |  December 31st, 2009 at 9:16 am

    #278
    Truth will set all of us free.

  • 297. Ganda Paiyanathan  |  December 31st, 2009 at 10:01 am

    I really don’t see what the big deal here. In the West, LTTE would have been classed as illegal combatants. Hence, Geneva conventions don’t exist.

    Get over it folks, they got what they deserved. Did you expect the SL forces to make cups of tea ad offer biscuits? :)

  • 298. Ganda Paiyanathan  |  December 31st, 2009 at 10:26 am

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    The point is not whether these tigers were bad and deserved their fate but that of the conduct of the govt and armed forces. These guys were executed in cold blood after surrendering with white flags consequent to guarantees of safety from President Rajapakse and UN chief of staff. That is the issue here

    Another point is that if these guys deserve this kind of “justice” then why are people like Karuna and Pillaiyan who also have a lot of blood on their hands not getting “Justice”?

    Why are you not looking at this from a principled perspective?

    If the LTTE executes in cold blood its terrorism but if the army does its patriotism is it?

    Dear DBS

    Good question but the above two, broke off at the right time. Not when the LTTE decided to fight to the end under cover of innocent civilians. Praba and his gang should have joined the mainstream, back then. Two years too late !!!

  • 299. pushpa  |  December 31st, 2009 at 11:19 am

    DBSJ you yourself states that they were fighting a pitch battle at the time. Imagine the situaion. It was early morning and raining. There were shots coming from everywhere, and even some tiger caders pretend that they were surrendering, but later they took their weapons out started shooting at the army. There was utter chaos and the tigers were determined to kill as many soldiers as possible, because they were cornered and there was nothing more to loose. They were going to die any way, and they wanted to take as much as possible with them. Besides, the tigers themselves were shooting their own cadres who were surrndering to the army.

    Given this scenario, what happend was that in this chaos Nadesan and others came with the white flags, and remember it was still dark and raining. The STF wanted to check their authenticity, but someone from behind Nadesen’s party started shooting, and a couple of STF members got shot, and then the whole hell broke loose.It was a split second decision, if the STF didn’t shoot, they would have all got killed. The balance of Nadesan”s party ran back to the bush and got more weapons from the bush and started shooting from the bush. So, what do you expect the STF to do ?. They finish them off.

    If one wants to blame the SLA they can always twist the story and say that there was bright sun shine and it was nice and quiete, and they had beautiful white flags high up in the air. One can disregard the fact that it was a pitch battle going on there at the time, smoke everywhere, shots coming from everywhere and in one second you are shot dead and it was early morning and raining.

    Whatever happens, if MR, GR and others are taken in front of a War Crimes Tribunal, that will not help the Tamil cause at all. May be diaspora can humiliate SL and our leadership but this will set back the Tamil issue for another 25 or 30 years. Given the LTTE is not there anymore to massacre innocent civilians as revenge, the life for ordinary tamils in SL will not be rosey. Diasppora can take their f;lags and protest in western cities, but in the real world in SL, the day to day life for the innocent tamils will be very hard.

    As Yogamali stated in the earlier blog, all the three million tamils in SL cannot leave this country. They have to live here amicably. Therefore, everyone should take a step back and let everything settle a bit.

    HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Nobody likes their elected leaders and armed forces being “humiliated” in international tribunals.

    But what should be done is for President Rajapakse himself to order and conduct a credible probe into this and other allegations of war crimes, human rights violations and crimes against humanity by both sides.

    Incidently he has committed himself to the UN that such a probe would be done but is dilly-dallying

  • 300. pushpa  |  December 31st, 2009 at 11:22 am

    192 Max

    I know how you feel, but please do not use this type of language hee.

    Cheers.

  • 301. Voltaire  |  December 31st, 2009 at 12:06 pm

    Another famous adage: “There is NO medicine for foolishness” (if the cap fits then please put it on).

  • 302. Nivithigala  |  December 31st, 2009 at 12:52 pm

    LTTE was bigheaded when they had power and now the people who have destroy them turn out to be bigheaded, boasting creating so much hatred between peace loving people knowing that they are going to pass this sick mentality to next generation too. LTTE massacred innocents then Special Forces massacred them. What we could see is wheel is turning everyday and all the time but no one wanted see away out. What I whish for this New Year ….. Please God create a good leader who could bring peace to both Sinhala and Tamil communities get them back together soon. Else, our children will fall in the same problem and we do not want that to happen. Nivithigala

  • 303. Senthil Vel  |  December 31st, 2009 at 1:36 pm

    Dear Mr.DBS,

    I have found your articles to be neutral & details to the depth.you seems to be well informed about what you write.could you answer my question.we saw VP body in television with a bullet wound to the forehead & his body intact without any injuries.isn’t that very strange he could have died during combat only with one bullet wound that too exactly to his forehead.i suspect either he was lured to surrender & executed. could you answer this or provide more details

    thanks

    Senthil

    At the appropriate time……………DBSJ

  • 304. Raja  |  December 31st, 2009 at 1:39 pm

    Hi DBS
    What happend the Third group with Pirabakarn?

    Please read my earlier article on Prabhakaran’s last days………..DBSJ

  • 305. Raja  |  December 31st, 2009 at 1:43 pm

    Hi
    So Chandranehru Chandrakanthan and KP both were in Sri Lankan Government side ?

    ???????????????????????????????……………………DBSJ

  • 306. Sam Lank  |  December 31st, 2009 at 2:05 pm

    Bob, no, it is not acceptable. Thuggery, Murder, Terror, none of those are acceptable regardless if it was LTTE or GOV. It is time SL GOV start listen to the voices of decent. Silver lining is that as CIA classified, world’s most ruthless terrorists and its leadership was over, which is an obvious and resounding win for the man-kind.

    Forget about killing Sinhala or Muslim innocents, they killed their own moderate Tamil leadership. No one can argue otherwise. This is why civilized world had banned them, prosecuted their arms dealers and fund raisers, and shut off most of their lifeline during final phases of the war. Tamil’s had and has legitimate grievances, so does poor under privileged Sinhalese and Muslims. Some of the grievances have been addressed and more need to be done. BUT none of these can be achieved by sticking to the stupid megalomaniac protocol Tamil terrorists were adhering to which was killing, killing and killing, does not matter women, children or babies, just massacre them.

    This very protocol some of the bloggers and writers try to hide by adding some dressing and makeup will not turn to a strategic approach at present or in the future. Terrorism will never win, regardless how strong one’s grievances are. There are zillion facts about atrocities done by both parties, but we know that LTTE continuesly tried to trigger more 1983s by killing so many innocent villagers, bombing buses, killing entire baseball team of a high school team (DS), and many other appalling acts, but majority of Sinhala people did not do anything against Tamil civilians.

    1983 was a mistake (managed and supervised by then UNP regime), but Sinhalese should get credit for restraint though LTTE continued the killing spree to invoke more racial violence. This was indeed a good start. I hope SL Gov will take drastic steps to make sure SL will head on right direction from now onwards.

    Also, Tamil terrorists as well as those who are biased for terror tactics should hear the message – your protocol will never work. We need to anticipate the birth of true moderate Tamil leadership to the caliber of Thiruchelvams and Kadirgamar, who are qualified even to become the president or PM of the country with Sinhala majority. Unfortunately Tamil Terror killed these brilliant Tamil leaders. So the protocol must change, enough has happened.

  • 307. Sam Lank  |  December 31st, 2009 at 2:35 pm

    Dear DBSJ, your response to Dilshan – “The point is not whether these tigers were bad and deserved their fate but that of the conduct of the govt and armed forces. These guys were executed in cold blood after surrendering with white flags consequent to guarantees of safety from President Rajapakse and UN chief of staff. That is the issue here”.

    I agree. But what about the justice to the families of those 800 surrendered Police and Army officers that LTTE killed cold blooded? Will you show your passion to those Sinhalese families who suffered? Can you suggest what can we do to give equal opportunity at UN though it is few years later now? I wish we see equal passion and effort here. Karuna may have executed the cold blood killings of those surrendered, but it was the “LTTE leadership” given the orders, like you may blame SL Gov for current issue. But equivalent to “SL GOV now” is not “Karuna then from LTTE”. It was “LTTE leadership” which consists of those white flag carrying LTTE terror leaders. And you know, some of those “leaders” are still at large living in Canada and other countries. It was like some soldiers killed Pullidevan/Nedesan, Karuna was the executer. Your main focus is not on the soldiers killed terror leaders, but on SL Gov and military leadership correct? Should not we bring both cold blooded killings to the front of UN for justice?

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    It is only when there is no JUSTICE nationally that international justice is needed. Mahinda Rajapakse can conduct a domestic credible probe into ALL human rights violations, war crimes, crimes against humanities allegations and find out the truth

    At present many of the LTTE atrocities are all being investigated and legal action is being taken. Only atrocities on the govt- army side are not being inquired into. Furthermore they are being denied and arrogantly dismissed on the basis that victors require no justice. It is only such conduct that invites international intervention.

    As for Karuna he was the eastern commander and decided unilaterally to execute and informed his leader after giving the order.Prabhakaran concurred and sanctioned it. He was not a common cadre obeying orders from the top.

    Nowadays there is a tendency to gloss over Karuna because he is on the right side

    If you take up the case of 600 cops being massacred before international tribunals the first thing they will ask is why Karuna instead of being charged is given a minister post

    Now I am tired of explaining again and again to the likes of you

    Try to understand if you can otherwise take a break but dont pester me again and again to re-invent the wheel

  • 308. Satha Alaganandasundaram  |  December 31st, 2009 at 3:54 pm

    Another fantastic investigatve journalism by DBS.

  • 309. Liyanage  |  December 31st, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    Comment 297 – I have nothing against your comment but I strongly condemn your pseudonym (Ganda Paiya+nathan).

    You know what I mean?

  • 310. Ravi  |  December 31st, 2009 at 5:05 pm

    Dear DBS,

    Please don’t waste your energy and time in responding to these blogs as you could spend your precious time in much more valuable things such as writing the above, or on any subject for that matter. It is always a joy to read your works as they are master pieces.

    Seriously, I am willing to contribute to your noble course, please set up a donation account and I will be the first one to contribute. I am sure there are others out there who want to join me on this.

    Have a wonderful and properous new year.

    Regards
    Ravi
    Thank you and all the best for 2010 to you………..DBSJ

  • 311. bob  |  December 31st, 2009 at 5:59 pm

    306. Sam Lank

    1983 was a mistake (managed and supervised by then UNP regime),

    YES This Mistake Oiled the Aspiration of Tamil Lamp

    LTTE was not a Terrorist organization at that time

  • 312. Kalu Albert  |  December 31st, 2009 at 6:35 pm

    Good health, Peace and Happiness to you and all you readers in the New Decade.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:
    Dear KA,
    Thank you for your wishes and the same to you

    Two points.

    1. I have had some problems with certain websites before. I do not want to get embroiled in unnnecessary controversies with them. Therefore I do not encourage excerpts from or links to postings in those sites. Let them carry on their way while I continue in my way

    2. I do not want discussions on this site about what someone has said on another site. Again it can lead to unwanted controversy which I do not need. It is most inappropriate to discuss contents of other sites elsewhere. The best is to initiate a discussion on the site concerned

    No hard feelings

  • 313. marusira  |  December 31st, 2009 at 7:31 pm

    And the award for the best photo in the last decade goes to
    the photo depicting Karuna standing over the dead body of Velupillai Prabhakaran and identifying same.

    What a sight.

  • 314. Raveendra Siribaddana  |  December 31st, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    What a year it was!
    2009 will be remembered together with heroes and zeros (and heroes who became zeros) as long as the Sri Lanka nation exists.
    Sri Lanka survived 2500 years. There were traitors, there are traitors and there will be traitors. But Sri Lanka will prevail!

    DBSJ !
    Wish you a healthy fantastic & prosperous 2010!!!

  • 315. kaluyaka  |  December 31st, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    I think all patriotic Sinhalayo must get together and put war criminal charges against Mahinda, Gota,Sarath and Shavendra

    Our noble race is shamed by these vermin

  • 316. Fran  |  January 1st, 2010 at 12:16 am

    Happy New year to all the fellow travelers on Earth. I hope 2010 will bring peace and justice to all the persecuted and unfortunate.

  • 317. Forget-the-Past  |  January 1st, 2010 at 2:09 am

    Dear DBSJ,
    All the best for 2010.

    Thank you.Happy new year to you…………….DBSJ

  • 318. shankar  |  January 1st, 2010 at 3:26 am

    When the TNA MP Chandra Nehru told Mahinda that he would like to be there when the surrender took place, Mahinda said not to risk his life unnecesarily.

    For those who are villifying Mahinda as a man who does not value human life, this is a good eye opener. See how concerned he was even for an opposition MP’s welfare.

  • 319. Rathnavali  |  January 1st, 2010 at 5:09 am

    Wish you a Happy New Year DBSJ!

    Looking forward to more interesting revelations during 2010…

    All the Best,

    Thanks and wish you all the best for 2010…………DBSJ

  • 320. Bawa  |  January 1st, 2010 at 6:13 am

    Thanks. But what i understand from this article and other well written articles on the subject, even if nadesan and pulideven were shot dead by the forces, it was not a war crime given the facts that LTTE had siught to sort of tactics as surrendering but then attacking the forces. Therefore, lets move forward and look for the future how we could rise together as a nation.

  • 321. James Thenuwera  |  January 1st, 2010 at 6:29 am

    MR and GR may have told the forces not to kill at those who came with white flags (if they gave such assurance to Nambir of UN). But, how can MR or GR from Colombo stop the forces that would kill those 3 even if they came with white flags. It was still war situation, the soldiers were doing the final battle. No ceasefire had been announced by the Government, so MR and GR cannot be blamed. It is like if Churchill wanted some Nazis not to be killed, the allied forces would still have killed them. The soldiers had the say not the Commander in Chief. War Crimes Tribunal must go after the soldiers who killed them – this will be like finding a needle in a hay stack

  • 322. Roy Dias  |  January 1st, 2010 at 8:41 am

    Someone here mentioned about 600 SURRENDERED policemen were killed by LTTE.
    THE MAN WHO KILLED THEM – COL.KARUNA IS AN M.P OF SL PARLIAMENT.
    shouldn’t he stand trial for his part in ‘war crimes’?
    Karuna and all who killed surrendered LTTE/SL forces should stand trial at ICC.

  • 323. TCK  |  January 1st, 2010 at 10:37 am

    Heres a thought.. since as you mention we (Sri Lankans) have seemingly ‘forgiven’ Karuna and others for their crimes, why don’t we do the same in this incident and move forward…

    I still can’t understand how lack of an investigation right now in to the execution of a surrendered terror leader prevents a Tamil person from being part of the redevelopment process. What stops him/her from doing their job wellt? Maybe I am too stupid to comprehend these things. Is it that they are all dying to know what happened and are waiting to see the culprits being punished?

    I do not think NOT investigating/ punishing the executors of Rohana Wijeweera has prevented the development of the country. If it was being investigated and some people punished, can some one please tell me WHO here will be feeling good about it?

    I dont think you’ll ever understand.Happy new year……………….DBSJ

  • 324. TCK  |  January 1st, 2010 at 10:45 am

    In the last sentence in my above comment, I a referring to Rohana’s Death and not this incident. I want to knwo 20 years on, there is no investigation into Rohana’s death. BUT, what bad things has this ‘injustice’ done to the country? Did it stop people from living, getting married, raising kids, building houses, doing business, writing books, making films…?

    Does even JVP think of him? Time and Money resolves
    everything.

    BUT let me make it clear, we are talking about terrorists in both instances. Not an innocent civilian that was willfully killed.

    Thousands of civilian were killed during those dark days………………DBSJ

  • 325. Ariya  |  January 1st, 2010 at 11:35 am

    You see, DBSJ, I keep remembering the 5 year old Tamil girl who was burnt to death in Colombo, while walking in the new sandals her grandfather bought for her. She was killed by a coward, who hid somewhere and pushed a button to detonate a bomb.

    These two guys and the others might never have given a 2nd thought about that little Tamil girl and her mother, who also was burnt to death.

    When these guys’ pals blew a bus, the people inside were also killed in cold blood. When one of their pals drew a tractor at unarmed Navy personnel, that too was done in cold blood.

    I don’t really have sympathy for these two guys, nor for his Sinhalese wife. But, if that little Tamil girl lived today, she would have been of much more worth than these two guys.

    I know of a Tamil man, who sent his little girl to his village from Colombo, and how relieved he was that Prabakran was no more. How he was relieved that he can bring his little girl back to school in Colombo!

    No, DBSJ, I don’t have any sympathy for these two guys!

    Did anyone ask you to have sympathy for anyone?…………..DBSJ

  • 326. Ariya  |  January 1st, 2010 at 11:56 am

    You see, DBSJ, when some story is written in Sunday Leader, it touches only a few people in Sri Lanka, but even the English speaking Sinhalese don’t appear to bother about that. And when the whole story is translated to Sinhalese and published in a Sinhalese newspaper, it doesn’t make any waves. The Sunday leader writes to the outsiders, not for the “locals”, so that it would be reproduced in as many as foreign newspapers, and there would be some waves. But for the “locals”, it is a minor issue, and the larger issue would be that “why did the former Army Chief betrayed the Army?” type thinking.

    In a way, Ranil had done his job well. He had made SF look a traitor, so that SF would NOT win this election. Even though Ranil had put forward a “common” candidate, he doesn’t want him to win. Ranil had lost so many elections, and if a “common” candidate wins the very 1st election, where can Ranil hide his face?!

    In a climate where war criminals are not shame-faced why should Ranil hide his face?………..DBSJ

  • 327. DrJ  |  January 1st, 2010 at 12:49 pm

    Dear DBS J,

    Keep on writing! I wait for every new post from you – and I am not even Sri Lankan!

    A wonderful 2010 to you and your pen.

    Could you please do us all a favour and look into cloning yourself really fast?!

    Again, many, many, many thanks! If you ever come to Bangalore, I am buying!

    Thank you. Is it not Bengalooru now?Happy new year…………..DBSJ

  • 328. Ernest  |  January 1st, 2010 at 12:51 pm

    Mahinda was very much concerned not to have a witness by the slaughter. He is the man who gave orders for the party which was then celebrated by the soldiers of all ranks. What a fantastic party it was! Want to see more of it, when Mahinda is going to give his blessings for rest of 11000 last minuite forced recruits?

    Happy New Year 2010 for the lucky survivors.

  • 329. Sam Lank  |  January 1st, 2010 at 12:59 pm

    311. bob

    “YES This Mistake Oiled the Aspiration of Tamil Lamp”
    - Aspirations do not need adaptation of terrorism. Did not Tamil “aspiration” turned terrorism made the lamp go dark and energy-less? Aspiration should have stayed an aspiration rather getting Tamil’s labeled as terrorists throughout the globe. And the leader (VP) has been equaled more or less to ruthless top terrorist Bin Laden. Wrong turn Bob. Tamil’s should be smarter than this.

    “LTTE was not a Terrorist organization at that time.” – Are you kidding? Did not they cold bloodedly murdered mayor of Jaffna, a respected Tamil leader Dureiappa? Was that some kind of a Hindu ritual to send an innocent life to heaven or something? The time you adopt terror tactics, you become a terrorist.

  • 330. Nostradamus  |  January 1st, 2010 at 1:06 pm

    Mahinda told Chandra Nehru not to risk his life unncessarily assuring him what is necessary will be done.

    When Tweedledee fails to get the job done, Tweedledum will rise to the occasion. Double jeopardy.

    Moreover, it was a No Visit Zone. However 3 had Green Channel previlege. Karuna, Masters Daya & George besides Indian advisors reportedly.

    It is also quite possible STF did not know what white flags meant which might have led them to think of it as a new form of warfare.

    Had the Indians raised the Tri Color inadvertantly they would not have known what hit them. Like Rajiv Gandhi when he a was inspecting the guard of honor.

    Vijithamuni Rohana de Silva, a naval rating from the south, apparently believed hitting the head of the visiting dignitary is the appropriate way of honoring foreign leaders.

  • 331. kaluyaka  |  January 1st, 2010 at 1:58 pm

    DBSJ now I/we know who you really are.

    That’s easy cos I write under my own name and not names like “Black Devil”………..DBSJ

  • 332. Kukul Charlie  |  January 1st, 2010 at 6:06 pm

    According to Fonseka’s own estimate, there were 12,000 Tiger fighters at the commencement of the humanitarian operation. He stated repeatedly that his goal was to kill 1000 a month.He was not interested taking prisoners.

    When the President laid out plans for the surrender it was 58 and 59 divisions which were assinged the task of accepting who ever wanted to surrender.The surrender posts were located on the beach side of the enclave.

    The rest of the area was well sealed to prevent anyone escaping to the hinter land. The special forces there, were not interested in” surrenders”.

    From the account of the events,it is obvious Nadesan and the rest accompanied by armed fighters lead by Ramesh and Illango were heading in the wrong direction . This was the last attempt to clear an escape route for Praba abd his close allies.

    The surrender posts manned by 58 and 59 commanders had already accepted scores of Tigers including hierarchy members like Daya Master and George, without any physical harm.

    Now that Ranil has secured the Sambathan faction’s backing for Fonseka, surely,a war crimes tribunal will eventuate in the unlikely event that Ranil becomes the Executive Prime Minister. This is the pay back to the TNA which acted as the political wing of the LTTE under the leadership of Sambathan.

    In a pre-emptive move,Mahinda can conduct his own probe…………DBSJ

  • 333. Kumar  |  January 1st, 2010 at 9:37 pm

    DBSJ’s comment on post 117:

    “If terrorists adhered to rules they wont be terrorists.If govt troops do not adhere to rules they become state terrorists………………”

    In Sinhala we say “This is a Masuran watina kathawak”.
    Thank you.

  • 334. Ben J  |  January 1st, 2010 at 10:10 pm

    HI David,
    this is a fine article. it looks like, lot of your singhala readers were very unhappy about this article. after all this a normal human reaction. you were the only tamil journalist who criticised the LTTE when the LTTE was in power at NE of sri lanka. you were attacked by the LTTE “modayas”. even though some of us did not like the LTTE but we were scared to talk openly. but this article is not about pro LTTE or anti SL army campaign. this is about the human right violation.

    you would have written the same thing if LTTE have done this type of killing to the SL army. you have written so many article criticizing LTTE’s action. people have forgotten and now saying you are pro LTTE. this is a real, neutral journalism. people of sri lanka must understand one thing, today it happened to surrended LTTE cadres and their families. tomorrow it can happened to you and your families.

    if you don’t punish the people who is responsible for the unlawful killing now, this kind of killing will continue. I am not saying Nadesan and others are deserve to live. they are terrorist and they have to be punished. but accroding to the law. we have to obey the international law as well. you can’t run the country as wild state. if SF become the president, this will happened.

  • 335. Dinesh Ariyadasa  |  January 1st, 2010 at 10:38 pm

    Good article,

    The real question is what happend to pottu amman? Is he dead or surrenderd to the army or alive and well in exile?.

  • 336. R Pathmanathan  |  January 1st, 2010 at 11:21 pm

    Thank You Mr. DBSJ for this article.

    I’m quiet happy with your response to the well deserved cocky and arrogant reader’s comments.

    Please let me reply to # 192 Max.

    I strongly urge you to find your biological father first before you utter anymore venom on this web site or to DBSJ. I’ve come across vulgar before but not to to this extent. Please don’t preach others what you have perfected. You are a pathetic sick M.F.Dog!

    #325 Ariya, you should change your name to Kariya,
    which is more appropriate to you.

    Terrorists or not, no one deserved to die when they surrendered to their enemy. We all know what happened to the Army man who made “Kataragama Queen – Manamperi” to dig her own grave and killed her. The same fate will fall on these so called SF army soldiers.

    As for MR, UN’s Nambiar and SF, what can I can say beside how can you guys sleep peacefully at night?

    DBSJ: Wish you a happy new year!

    Thank you. Wish you the best for 2010………………..DBSJ

  • 337. Natives  |  January 1st, 2010 at 11:34 pm

    Dear DBSJ,

    Wish you a happy, healthy and rewarding journalistic year!!

    D- Determined to expose wrong doers
    B- Best & Brilliant Journalistic mind from Sri Lanka
    S- Superb writing, Superb analysis
    J- Judgment, right on target and predicted the demise of LTTE.

    Wish you a many many years of successful blogging at DBSJeyraj.com. ( would love to see “donation/contribution button” on the site)
    Hopefully 2010 will be happier and prosperous year for people in SL.

  • 338. rajan  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 1:28 am

    Good resourcefull article.Any info regarding Pirabaharans final days.

  • 339. pushpa  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 2:15 am

    I can see there are so many people coming out of wood work seeking for a war crimes tribunal since the General opened his big mouth apparently to venge his anger from MR & Co.

    OK have an inquiry, but get those LTTE members who have escaped and living in London, Canada USA Australia etc. . They are people who sent child soldiers like lamb to slaughter and gave them suicide pills.

    Why dont you get Mahinda to conduct a credible probe into all these?…………DBSJ

  • 340. amu sinhala  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 2:44 am

    What credibility for this fairytale like report??

    But funny, reading some of these silly comments, one begins to wonder what zero level of IQ some of our Sinhala brothers have.??

    Have they for a mom sat and thought back if they have answers to:

    1. what kind of evidence they have that LTTE attacked Sinhala civilians intentionaly, unless people got caught to cross fire situ.

    2. If the Govt. had evidence, why did they not try and bring the culprits to justice.

    3. It is well known that many Tamil politions (& few Sinhala) were killed by Sinhala politions and the SLA and they all got away putting the blame on LTTE

    4. If LTTE were to attack sinhala civilians, they cud have
    killed millions in retaliation to the many blatant attack by SLA on innocent people in churches and the kids in chencholai. But did they?? No. B’cos LTTE in latter years was engaged in a civilised way of war.

    5. If Sinhala politions were not engaged in genocide activities rite from 1948, S/lanka wud have devoloped far ahead of every other Asian nation and it was we the Sinhala Budhist who are in majority wud have been benefitted..

    60 years wasted due to bad politics !!

    Go back to 1956 to 1983

    U must be ashamed of ourselves to call us following the Buddha ways.

    But I ‘m a Negombo Christian Sinhala, but stand to reason!!.

    Plse sit back and think.

    How can we decide to punish the 300 000 in the camps on the pretext of fighting terrorism.
    This is an uncivilised way of treating human beings, just b’cos they belong to a diff. race ??
    and ofcourse the price for humburg capitalism!!

  • 341. Ranjith Subasinghe  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 3:06 am

    Thanks for this story. If it happened like this it is very good. There were no international norms for these terrorists. People were killed cold blooded by those who raised white flags. I have witnessed many. One example is that LTTE killed 10 civilian in Kanthale. They came there as contractors to harvest sugarcane. One night in 1986, LTTE came and killed all of them. They cut the male sex organs and put them in their mouth. They cut the breasts of females and had broom sticks inserted into their female sex organs. This is one example of (of thousands) how LTTE carried out the killing of innocent poor people. One good thing is that LTTE did not discriminate in these killings. They gave equal right to Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims in their killing actions. I agree that they should not have been killed that way. It is bad that they were shot dead. It was an honourable death for them compared to innocent people who struggled to die when LTTE was executing them. Rather theses guys should have been killed after allowing Sri Lankan to torture them for months.

  • 342. Tissa Wije  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 4:50 am

    Thanks DBSJ for another informative article. Also let me wish you a happy new year in 2010.

    No doubt you have sources of information from Army circles, but do you you have a similar network among LTTE circles, I wonder. Some of the information coming from anonymous sources may be attempts at slinging mud, as you see in the hotting up election parade.

    Being a distant follower of the happenings of LTTE inner power structure, it raised some questions in my mind. How did these nattily dressed characters rise up the ladder in the LTTE command structure, it can’t be their good looks alone. I suppose, they hailed from Jaffna, unlike the TMVP chaps, who realized that the uppity Jaffna boys would never let them their due place, however much they up their game in the ferocity shown to the enemy like killing the 600 cops, worshipping Kattankudi Muslims and the unquestioning obedience shown to Sun God.

    Nadesan and Puliadevan would have demonstrated further reasons to win their stripes, and that part is missing in your summation. Did they have a hand in executing major atrocious murders of the LTTE like Anuradhapura pilgrims, bus load of Buddhis prists in Anuradhapura, or the Colombo murders, major bombs. It is the total obedience of a character who has burned the return boat that earns the value and promotability in the eyes of the Sun God.

    As for Nadesan’s wife, I heardher family donated Pansukula, and mourned for her demise decades before the event took place. Plainly they had disowned her, after the many events of 85 – 00.

    This piece is about how Nadesan&Pulidevan were killed and not about their “career” in LTTE………DBSJ

  • 343. TCK  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 4:52 am

    DBSJ’s response to me: 324. TCK
    Liek I said, I was referring only to the subject of this discussion. ALL civilian deaths, should be investigated, and responsible people brought to justice. NO question about it.

    But the country will shed different tears to those innocent people and to a surrendered terrorist. I still feel no one would really miss lack of an investigation in to the execution of Nadesan & Pulidevan. The same way we do not care about RW’s execution.

    By RW you mean Rohana Wijeweera not Ranil Wickremasinghe?………….DBSJ

  • 344. TCK  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 4:59 am

    323. TCK: I dont think you’ll ever understand.Happy new year……………….DBSJ
    - I too am worried about this. But does not stop me from trying. :-)

    Your perseverance is commendable………….DBSJ

  • 345. SJVGGPINGRAVE  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 5:23 am

    DBSJ ,Thank you for this article. wish you a Happy new year.
    Questions that will and Should not go away.

    During the war against the LTTE the Sri Lankan government took stringent action to ensure that minimal information relating to its battlefield tactics and costs seeped out to the public. Claiming it was to ensure the safety of non-combatants, the government restricted access of international agencies and media to the battle zones. Even the International Committee of the Red Cross was not permitted access to the battle zones.
    By preventing international organizations and media from operating in the battle zones, the government was successful in keeping the costs of war out of the realm of public discussion. As a result, government calls for recruits to join the military and for economic sacrifices to support the war effort were met with public support.
    This is A premeditated war crime and crime against humanity the IC,Un should not ignore. There are ample evidence already and any new evidences needed can be collected even now as a forensically trained doctor I can confirm there are technology available. Mahinda , Foney & Co can run but not hide for ever.

  • 346. pandaravanian  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 5:27 am

    Although Sri Lanka is not a signatory to the Rome Convention which set up the International Criminal Court (ICC), the island nation can still be dragged before the ICC without its consent, senior cabinet minister and a former Professor of Law, G.L.Peiris, has said.

    DBSJ ,Thank you . wish you a very Happy new

    Thank you and happy new year to you also…………..DBSJ

  • 347. Rp  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 5:35 am

    Who the hell cares because when these murderers killed hundreds and thousands over a 30 year period of terror there was no one to shed a tear for the hapless victims & the suffering families. Tamil LTTE hangers on are trying to make these lunatics martyrs

    some others are trying to make war criminals war heroes…………..DBSJ

  • 348. pushpa  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 7:17 am

    If these three smiling gentlemen did not join a murderous
    organisation like the LTTE and kill innocent people, they wouldn’t have faced that fate they did.

    These three did not surrender earlier although many opportunities were given, because they wanted to kill more and more SLA before they surrender.

    So, Mr DBSJ please do not try to make them martyrs by giving us some nice smiling photos. They were cold blooded murderers, and they got what they deserved.
    All the Tamil people are happy for what happened to the LTTE and the leadership, but out in the open they do not want to say it. Am I right Mr DBSJ ?.

    Cheers.

    Pangs of conscience on seeing the smiling faces of surrendees shot dead in cold blood?………….DBSJ

  • 349. pandaravanian  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 7:31 am

    # 329, 306,291,265,Sam Lank
    If 1983 was a mistake what about ,1956,1961,1977,1981 and many more I can give you as evidence why are you making these mistakes repeatedly?. Have you forgoten who killed SWARDB,VIJAYA KUMARANATUNGA,RAVI RAJ,JOSEPH PARARASINGHAM ,MAHESWARAN,KUMAR PONNAMPALAM. have your ‘democratic’ Gov supported by majority of your peace loving people investigated it? Executive president has all the powers to do it except change a man to woman and vice versa. Don’t run away from the truth TRUTH SHOULD PREVAIL FOR EVER

    From 1956 to 1983 and who cold bloodedly killed Tamils in the streets, homes, temples & churches were’t they not terrarists (Sinhala state aided) they even put priestes in boiling tar drums have you forgoten. Who killed and even enucleated eyes of some Tamil political prisoners alive and presented to Buddha statue in the prisons. Are you saying therse acts are saintly.

    I do not give a sh—.t about SF.MR.GR or Sam Lank or any bast..d But I do care about innocent Tamils and also innocent Sinhalese who were destroyed by Sinhala ,and military terror organised by Sl politicians and tiger terror for over 60 years.

  • 350. panamkkottai  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 9:06 am

    “There is now a Sri Lankan model for ending a protracted guerilla war”
    Which means, war model is
    1. keep the media away
    2. Put behind bars, who speaks for justice
    3. Use heavy weapons
    4. Bomb and kill your so called own citizens
    5. Don’t even spare the hospitals, churches, schools, .. ground zero everything
    6. Set up a propanganda unit to justify the killing of civilians
    7. kill as many civilians as possible
    8. Get your neighbours within your loop and give them false promises.
    9. Don’t let any militants or wounded civilians to surrender, just shoot them
    10. Put the blame on minorities, Party and enjoy,
    11. Get your friends to defend any war crimes charges
    Very simple model, why not world follow this.
    Lucky sri Lanka is not powerful as US. then they will wipeout the whole world.

  • 351. panamkkottai  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 9:10 am

    When Mahinda Rajapakse says that his military is very disciplined as he knows the past record of human rights violations when, in fact, 950 of his peacekeeping military was expelled from Haiti for sexual abuses. He knows well that his military and Generals will do all misdeeds including sexual exploits, murders in a disciplined manner.

  • 352. expatdoc  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 9:54 am

    5. Dave D ALwis
    10. Matt | December 29th, 2009

    What ? If I say when The Sinhala thugs and undisciplined Sl army were killing innocent Tamil people in cold blood since 1958 why no one cared to speek up? Including yourself If they (you) have done so LTTE may not have even formed and VP may have even joined Sl army ( if army recruited Tamils) and become army Chief . Pullythevan may have become a UN diplomat ,Nadasan may have become IGP. I my self may be living in Srilanka with all my extended family and may be busy in developing Srilankan National health service instead living in a foreign cold country treating foreign nationals and advising/ developing their health services. TRUTH SHOULD COME OUT AND JUSTICE BE SERVED THEN ONLY PEACE BECOME A REALITY.

    Let the Geneva Conventions be there to protect minorities .

  • 353. pandaravanian  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 10:01 am

    Dear guys and gls

    The UN Security Council had the right to request the Chief Prosecuting Officer (CPO) of the ICC to embark on an investigation of the complaints it had received with a view to prosecution. The CPO could, on his own, seek the approval of the Pre-Trial chamber of the ICC to conduct investigations.

    In the Sri Lankan case, the UN’s Special Rapporteur for Extrajuicial Killings and Arbitrarty Executiuons, Philip Alston, had called for clarifications on the allegation that the Sri Lankan army had killed three top leaders of the LTTE and their families when they had come to surrender waving white flags as per a prior arrangement between them and the Lankan government. The allegation had been made by no less a person than Gen.Sarath Fonseka, a former Army Commander who is now a candidate in the January 26 Presidential election.

  • 354. pandaravanian  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 10:05 am

    Dear commenters who have omited from their minds or forgotten what happened prior to 1980s please see this independant web site

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riots_in_Sri_Lanka

  • 355. Youngster  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 10:46 am

    Dear David,

    Best & happy new year,
    Youngster

    Thanks and best wishes for 2010…………DBSJ

  • 356. Dr. Rohan Serasinghe  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 11:43 am

    I am sure that if the situations were reversed and the army officers surrendered to Prabhakaran, he would have wellcomed them and served them with Dosai and Masala Wadai, not forgetting some Palmyrah Today too! We all still remember how humanely the LTTE treated 700 surrendering police officers by massacaring them! There is a famous tamil proverb saying “what ye shall sow, ye shall reap”, it’s a advice that the LTTE leadership should have heeded long time ago! Nadesan and pulidevan got what they deserved, they had the blood of so many on their hands!

    But why has Karuna not reaped what he sowed after massacring 600 surrendee cops?…………..DBSJ

  • 357. Anil  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 1:00 pm

    Dear DBSJ,

    It is hearten to hear your story. I do not believe the story after all. But before writing, as a human being, you should think the devastation what they have done. As to this wirting it seems you all-heartedly accept all inhuman things done by them. this is their fate for what they have done.

    Now I know what your ulterier motives are.

    Best Regards

    Thou art truly divine for you have divined what was concealed in the dungeons of my deep,dark soul. I beseech thee to lay bare those thoughts furthermore and more and more……….DBSJ

  • 358. Revi unni  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 1:19 pm

    Dear DBSJ
    A very Happy new Year To You.Since you have mentioned about your interest in wildlife I sincerely wish you would spare time and your talent for this subject.I am only interested in LTTE since they gave the noble PANTHERA TIGRIS or the Tiger a bad name
    ReviUnni

    Thank you and all the best for 2010……………..DBSJ

  • 359. Navin  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 3:38 pm

    350. panamkkottai | January 2nd, 2010 at 9:06 am

    “There is now a Sri Lankan model for ending a protracted guerilla war”
    Which means, war model is

    1. keep the media away

    I’m not aware of US ever allowing Russian or Chinese media into anywhere near US troops
    were engaging so called terrorists. Though we regularly here of so many terrorists
    been killed on the ground by US drone attacks all these claims emanate from
    Media controlled by American Neo-cons. So this particular aspect doesn’t make
    Sri Lankan model unique.

    2. Put behind bars, who speaks for justice

    Those who speak for justice must first make sure that there are no
    skeletons in their cupboards.

    3. Use heavy weapons

    If US can fire cruise missiles into heavily populated city like Baghdad,
    I don’t understand why GOSL cannot subject small cities like killinochchi to aerial
    bombardment or use Heavy Artillery on a highly militarized remote war zone like Puththukudiirrpu.

    4. Bomb and kill your so called own citizens

    Then how come we have 280,000 IDPs in camps? For every citizen that got
    killed in the last Eelam VI, VPs death has saved many thousand others who
    would have died of terror attacks otherwise. GOSL cannot save everyone but
    it has saved more than enough to justify its actions.

    5. Don’t even spare the hospitals, churches, schools, .. ground zero everything

    If there is reasonable proof that terrorists have taken refuge in the hospital
    or school or church even international law no longer requires that it be
    excluded from fire. When you are fighting with a terror outfit like LTTE that
    has abused all civilized norms for its advantage, there is no point in crying
    that even hospitals were attacked. If you didn’t want the hospitals attacked,
    you should have shouted at LTTE when it started using hospitals as cover
    to attack the military and not when the military started returning fire.

    6. Set up a propaganda unit to justify the killing of civilians

    So what the hell is wrong with that? Free media goes it both ways! If it can be used to
    criticize the government for civilian deaths, GOSL can also use it to justify its actions.

    7. kill as many civilians as possible

    (sigh!). I don’t think fellows like you appreciate the lives saved
    by GOSL for those lives aren’t the ones that matter to you. The lives that
    matter to you are the lives of those who keep the Eelam dream alive.
    I guess, when they are no more, it is as if all Tamils have been killed.

    8. Get your neighbors within your loop and give them false promises.

    Unlike you, all our neighbors are quite capable of thinking for themselves and aren’t kind of people that can be fooled.

    9. Don’t let any militants or wounded civilians to surrender, just shoot them

    I wonder then, how we have 12,000 LTTE carders in protective custody today?

    10. Put the blame on minorities, Party and enjoy,

    Minorities in Sri Lanka are as responsible for the current situation in
    the country as much as the majority. Been a minority is no excuse for
    not been responsible for the ethnic conflict. Remember, it wasn’t the majority
    that started the war!

    As for parting, I don’t think its just the Sinhalese who party when
    their boys defeat the bad guys or cause damage running into millions of
    dollars! Too bad you won’t get to party for a long time.

    11. Get your friends to defend any war crimes charges

    In a world where the distinction between
    a war crime and collateral damage is vague, there is nothing wrong with
    we making full use of the law to our advantage for we aren’t the only
    ones who are doing that. Besides GOSL isn’t the one who has committed most devilish
    war crimes in the world or in Sri Lanka.

    Very simple model, why not world follow this.
    Lucky sri Lanka is not powerful as US. then they will wipe out the whole world.

    Too bad, the conduct of US and Brits is worst than that of Sri Lanka.
    You certainly have a huge problem in seen things in relative terms.

  • 360. ananda  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 4:40 pm

    These people were members in the world’s most feared terrorist organisation, and they must have killed so many Sinhala and Tamil people in cold blood. Therefore, I am not shedding any tears for them. Looks like they got their just deserts. Well , one might ask how they were killed.
    They were not sitting in their house sipping a cup of morning tea innocently. They were in the middle of a bloody war early in the morning where there were lots of bullets flying around criss cross. The first person to shoot will survive and if you don’t shoot first, you are dead in a second. There were incidents in the past where they came with white flags and then suddenly started shooting and further suicide bombers were sent towards the SLA in the past. So, given this scenario, the SLA were not going to take any chances. Further, there is evidnce that the LTTE themselves were shooting those people who were trying to surrender. Everybody including you Mr. DBSJ know the LTTE was using innocent civilians as a human shield. Therefore, these guys might have been killed by anyone’s bullet.

    So, please don’t point the finger at the SLA alone.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I am not pointing my finger at the Sri Lankan Army in general

    I am unambigously stating that members of the Special Forces regiment deployed in the area were directly responsible for shooting dead in cold blood senior leaders of the LTTE who surrendered to them carrying white flags

    I have stated the names of four special force squadrons deployed in the area with the names of their commanding officers. I have also given the names of the two officers commanding the two Special force regiments deployed in the area and the name of the overall Special Force commander

    I have stated that the special forces were assigned to the area to supplement the efforts of 59 division on the direct orders of then army commander Lt.Gen Sarath Fonseka

    I have revealed through a secondary source that President Rajapakse and his brother and special adviser Basil Rajapakse had given guarantees of safety through a Tamil parliamentarian to the LTTE leaders intending to surrender

    I have revealed through a secondary source that UN Secretary -General’s chief of Staff ,Vijay Nambiar had also been given an assurance by President Rajapakse that surrendering LTTE leaders will be guaranteed security.

    I have also said that Sarath Fonseka was informed of the surrender arrangement only around 3. 30 am on Monday May 18th

    I have also said that the LTTE leaders intended surrendering to the 58 division but had fallen into the hands of the Special Forces

    I have also said that when Defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse later made inquiries about the surrender he was presented with a fait accompli

    Under these circumstances all that President Rajapakse has to do is to conduct a CREDIBLE probe into the incident and prove if possible the “innocence” of his officials, officers, special forces as well as his and brother Basil’s innocence and if necessary Vijay Nambiar’s too

    That is the best way to clear the good name of the Army

  • 361. bob  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 5:29 pm

    359. Navin

    Too bad, the conduct of US and Brits is worst than that of Sri Lanka.
    You certainly have a huge problem in seen things in relative terms.
    TRUE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • 362. Sam Lank  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 5:54 pm

    349. pandaravanian

    Relax Pandaravanian, all violence were mistakes, Sinhala violence against Tamils and Tamil violence against Sinhalese, all were mistakes and wrong. You need to reassess why Tamil struggle failed, failed miserably. The “approach” resulted in wiping out of entire LTTE leadership and prior to this, LTTE killed moderate Tamil leadership, LTTE let Tamil youth and babies die by creating baby brigades, so Tamils destroyed Tamils due to many strategic mistakes. Python started swallowing its own tail. None of the Tamils can boast any win or potential win now unless the “protocol” is fundamentally corrected. You can’t win any cause by adopting to terrorism. The terrorists will be destroyed sooner or later, like we have seen on our own example.

  • 363. K. Puthrasigamanay  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 6:11 pm

    This is all wrong propaganda by the GoSL. Everyone knows that the LTTE does not surrender, they have the cyanide capsules and are supposed to commit suicide before surrendering. So this talk about surrendering is all rubbish and meant to discredit the great LTTE!

  • 364. WJ  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 6:36 pm

    362. Sam Lank, OK this another sweep under the rug attempt.

    What is the answer those who were affected by the riots,, majority of them who have nothing to do with LTTE terrorism…lived outside of North and East..and worse yet they were state sponsored pogroms.

  • 365. mark martian  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 7:12 pm

    Dear Jaya, I am proud of you. Well done sir. Thanks. Hope to see you in Toronto some day, I am in montreal. Thanks Makr Martin

  • 366. Jayan  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 8:22 pm

    If you check the past records of the LTTE, they have resorted to violence with complete disregard usual laws of war. When they come with white flags who can give a gurantee whether they come with human bombs or not. Even with MR’s assurance of their safety, the soldiers did the right thing by killing them all. Now see the end result, 20 millian Sri Lankans; Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and others can live peacefully in this country of ours. I am sure of that those who live in this country will approve this 100 percent and those who live abroad may want to prosecute the soldiers for war crimes. All Sri Lankans who reside in this country are thankful to General Sarath Fonseka for ignoring MR & Gota’s orders and finish-off the terrosists for ever. But unfortunately Gen. Fonseka just can’t keep his big mouth shut.

  • 367. ananda  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 8:37 pm

    363 K Puthrasigamanay

    I think you are dead right. These gentlemen did not want to surrender being members of the great LTTE. All what they wanted to do was to pretend that they are surrendering and come forward and kill more of their enemy.

    So there you go Mr Jeyaraj, you got your answer. Everyone knows that the LTTE does not surrender, they have the cyanide capsule and are supposed to commit suicide before surrendering.

    I rest my case.

    What a waste of my time to have taken you seriously and written a serious response………….DBSJ

  • 368. pushpa  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 8:45 pm

    313 marusira

    You are funny mate, but I think you are perfectly right in choosing this photo as the photo of the decade.

    I reckone this is the photo of the century.

    Cheers.

  • 369. yogamali  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 9:04 pm

    Thank you DBSJ for writing this interesting article. I hope your sources are correct. However, when I read some of the comments, I find it that this could have happened in a different way. Whatever it is, as you say, it is a good idea to clear the air. It has to come from the SL Govt, if they are serious about telling the truth.

    I would like to mention here that most of my Sinhala friends read your blog to find out another angle to the whole ethnic issue. The local papers are full of patriotic overkill. Overseas papers and the media are not really intersted in SL, and you are the only one who write in the middle path, although some of your readers from both communities write extreme comments.

    I am not really worried about that because the ordinary person in the street does not read your blog, and it is read by people who got an open mind about this issue.

    Whatever happens at the elections, I hope there will not be another dark time in SL.

    Wish you a happy new year Mr Jeyaraj.

    By the way, you should write a book about this whole
    episode, and it will be a good read.

    Bye

    Thank You and wish you the best for the year 2010…………….DBSJ

  • 370. Assitha Subbarathna  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 9:14 pm

    Hi DBS,

    Thanks for the detailed story,
    Believe it’s true.
    You take up arms to kill,
    So it’s obvious ,and you too know ,you might get killed,
    Either hot or cold blood.
    this is a common fact for both sides.
    Even though the Geneva convention is there,
    things happen differently at front line.
    It mainly depend on how cruel the war is,and how cruel the enemy especially.

    I have no worries about how those big guys die.They who brought thousands of innocent people on the path of dead, don’t have the right to plead for safety.

    But I feel really sorry for the family members of these barbarians,they should be able to saved if those terrorist leaders realize there potential early and decide to surrender.

    So I let LTTE’s barbaric,arrogant & imprudent leadership responsible for unfortunate deaths of these women and children.

  • 371. Praveen  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 10:23 pm

    DBSJ is a well established journalist among the Tamil Diaspora,During the whole humanitarian operation ,he published numerous detailed accounts of the battles as well as the demise of all key leaders.

    This account of the surrender is the most important among all these reports, as this incident has the potential of dragging the current and future governments and the leaders before an international court. Several high ranking officials of the Western Nations and the UN are hell bent on bringing Srilanka to a War Crimes Tribunal.

    The author must have gathered these details from the most reliable sources such as eye witnesses who managed to escape the alleged massacre, the LTTTE hierarchy operating in the West ,and the Western Officials who were involved in the last ditch attempt to save the LTTE.

    Having read the details over and over ,I find glaring deficiencies in the story.I am not sure how this will stand at a judicial tribunal manned by high flying legal eagles.

    I wouldn’t be surprised if Gota has planned an inquiry that will be announced shortly to preempt the propaganda of the pro Tiger lobby.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I think International Human rights circles are more concerned about this incident because high level international efforts by at least three western envoys, two European foreign ministers and two high-ranking UN Officials were involved in the exercise.President Rajapakse himself reportedly provided assurances of safety to those intending to surrender.

    The LTTE or pro-LTTE lobby is hopelessly divided on this. For many in the tiger camp the fact that senior tigers opted to surrender is something shameful in their perception.The impetus in this is unlikely to come from those circles

    In any case there wont be a need for external intervention if President Rajapakse conducts an effective, credible probe

  • 372. Forget-the-Past  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 10:53 pm

    I am just glad it’s all over. Let’s stop it at that.

    No point in flogging a dead horse. LTTE is history, and that’s good news for the rest of the world.

    Diaspora can say whatever they wan’t, but the Tamils here in Sri Lanka are left to find a solution to the problem on their own. There was such a big hue and cry to release the IDP’s. Now they are released and worse off than they were in the camps. Oye Diaspora! We can’t see you offering any form of help to those poor homeless Tamils.

    IMHO this piece is not only about Justice, Truth ….. and the rest of it, but a clever leverage of driving a point home to advance the cause of Tamil struggle. And I don’t see anything wrong with that.

    UN and the rest are obliged to at least make a statement and they have done that. These two people are not worth UN’s time and GOSL has not become that unpopular with IC yet for this issue to go beyond it’s current status.

    We can and we will live happily ever after …. without VP or LTTE.

  • 373. Don  |  January 2nd, 2010 at 11:01 pm

    369. yogamali :- I agree 100% with your response. People on the road in SL is not interested in intellectual discussion and theory. They are more worried to find out where the next meal is coming from! I think Lenin said “the agony of the stomach is not felt by the head” meaning decision makers do not feel the suffering of the masses. Some people have taken the moral high ground and say it is very important to find out how these three guys got killed. They don’t know that only about 10% of daily occurrences we see is the truth!

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Most “ordinary”, less-educated people of Sri Lanka have a firm grasp of what is right and wrong. It is the so -called “educated” high- class people who are generally ambivalent on what is right and wrong. They fault other concerned people for trying to do the right thing and advise them not to stir the pot.They also arrogate unto themselves the right to pronounce verdict that the ordinary people are not concerned about matters like this

    I dont think this incident was the only one of its kind. There are many more more of this type. Perhaps some people want to prevent other terrible human rights violations, crimes against humanity and war crimes from being exposed and so dismiss this incident trivially as a pre-emptive move.

    I think More excreta may collide with the occilator in the days to come

  • 374. Kail  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 12:05 am

    A very informed and credible article, a pathetic ending.

    However I cannot believe that a War Crime Tribunal will ever take-off, the story will fizzle out eventually. This is pathetic too.

    There are 370 postings responding to your article, most are repetitive so I read about 100 and stopped. Most Singhala writers accuse the Tigers of killing innocent Singhalese Civilians. I thought the Tigers only responded to the aereal bombing and the artilary firing into Tamil civilian neighbourhood. They did not take the war to Colombo, Colombo brought the war to Jaffna.

    After 34 years, my first vist to Jaffna was in 2003. I found a place bombed back to Stone Age.

    I also found it hilarious when two Sinhala soldiers near the Keerimalai Temple asked me to take them back to Canada, that they are poor village boys, who took the only available employment, they love Tamil people, only the AAnduwa (govt:) does not like the Tamil people, etc.

    Do you think the War-Crime Tribunal will have legs leading to a court or never, never land?

  • 375. Gbs. Ganesan  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 12:42 am

    Thanks DBSJ for an informative article. I wonder why those LTTE men tried to contact Vijay Nambiar who according to some reports refused a routine briefing to UN Office after his visit from SL. Also it was reported his brother was assisting SL Army and being paid by the SL Govt.

    And to all those people who questioned the wisdom of western nations about they not questioning the LTTE killing… LTTE was banned and branded as Terrorists by those same western nations. I think every sincere nation should brandish the rogue states as so!!

  • 376. James Thenuwera  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 12:52 am

    Owing to this controversy MR and GR are now dead scared to go to western countries thinking they will be arrested.
    MR skipped several foreign trips recently, including the UN. So if he becomes President we will have a President confined to Sri Lanka and who will only travel to 3rd world countries. This will not be in the best interests of Sri Lanka. So let’s appoint SF as our next President, who will wine and dine with Obama, Brown, Sarkozi and the like. SF can talk English and he has no inferiority complex like MR. Our country will again be accepted by the wesetern world.

  • 377. Patriots and traitors&hellip  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 2:36 am

    D.B.S. Jeyaraj sheds a version which people in the know seem to agree with.

  • 378. James Thenuwera  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 3:15 am

    Why Tamils (TNA voters) should vote for SF – because SF has more Tamil Leaders backing him including Mano Ganeshan, and Hakeem who were one time confidents of Prabha (then, the two breakaway CWCs ). SF is a straight bat who eliminated corruption in the Army. A straight bat is predictable who basically has nothing to hide. SF, like he cleaned the Army will clean the country, this means it is good for all the nationalities including the Tamils. SF will be acceptable to the West but not MR. If MR continues we will lose GSP. Look at MR he got more then 100 in his cabinet then he gave 2 more including to the thug, Johnston. This act alone says a lot about the man. Since recently in his addresses in meetings he states “hamuduruwane” ( addressing the Maha Sangha), then addresses the people as “Sahodaraya”. In contrast SF is a refined and dignified person. He does not address to the ‘gallery’ like MR. It is good for the country and the world to have a person in the calibre of SF elected as President of Sri Lanka.

  • 379. Sunimal Chandrasiri  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 3:21 am

    In your article you say that at times Tigers attacked the Army and some even blew themselves up coming in as surrenders. So it is obvious that just because some one carried a white cloth you can’t expect the soldiers to be complaisant. After all the soldiers too are human beings and their own safety would have been the first priority. So unless it was a orderly surrender one cannot expect the soldiers to let their guard down. The question is whether it was an orderly surrender.
    Despite involvement of various parties as you say, it definitely was not an orderly surrender as there were no independent observers or facilitators at the site.
    Hence we will never know what really happened.The soldiers will say they were attacked under guise of surrendering and had to defend themselves. And if any of the surrenders are alive he or she will say that they came waving white cloths and were attacked. Who are we going to believe? Had it been an orderly surrender and there been independent observers we could have known the truth. Now all we can do is guess work according to our own prejudices.
    The other point of interest here is that according to your article they were to surrender to 58th battalion( which may have been briefed about it) according to the messages passed between parties but had fell in to the hands of Special Forces (which may not have been briefed about the surrender) accidentally. If that was the case then are Special Forces to be blamed?
    I don’t like war and killing people by which ever side. But I also believe that when in an irrational situation like war you can’t expect nice things to happen. If there are villains in this case,the foreign powers involved are among them in that they failed to make it an orderly surrender and gave false hope to the persons who were surrendering. If the authorities agreed to a surrender when there was no possibility or time to make an orderly surrender, then they too are to be blamed. And the surrenders too are at fault because they waited until the last moment to surrender, preventing the possibility of arraigning an orderly surrender.
    The foreign powers and authorities in safety of their offices and mansions may have given the green light to a un-orderly surrender in haste without taking into consideration the risk involved to the soldiers on ground.
    But the soldiers should not be held responsible even if surrenders were killed while carrying white cloths because there wasn’t an orderly surrender. How would the soldiers have known whether these people were genuine surrenders or had come to blow themselves up upon reaching soldiers! Had that happened who would have taken the responsibility- the foreign powers?,the authorities? Even if that happens of what use it would have been to the blown up soldiers !

    I would have preferred had there been a orderly surrender and they were taken alive if they really had come to surrender and brought to justice.

    After all if someone who killed hundred of surrendered policemen can become a minister and another who supplied weapons that killed thousand of innocent people all over the country can stay alive in a luxurious house with all facilities, why only some should be killed without due process of law?

  • 380. Sinha  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 3:26 am

    What a sad story,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

  • 381. A Prasanna  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 4:42 am

    Mr Jeyaraj, thanks. we can see where you are standing.

    John Milton wrote”They also serve who stand and wait”………….DBSJ

  • 382. pandaravanian  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 5:20 am

    Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, have you read the Sunday leader article related to this story by Fransisca in 3.12.09 .

  • 383. Sydney-Tamil  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 5:59 am

    Ideally, I would not be happy if a (or ex) military person rules Sri Lanka nor would I be happy if the corrupt clan rules.

    However, i keep pn wondering why India (I mean all Indian media) is against SF. I am no longer naive to believe that India thinks of out welfare. In fact India thinks it is better for them if MR comes to power; keeps on wondering what was already agreed between MF and India.

  • 384. pandaravanian  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:07 am

    362. Sam Lank , It is usual for Victors / Rulers always at a particular moment in history request to forget the past and joint hands with the opposition. But if they do not find out the TRUTH and serve JUSTICE there will never be an end of the same mistakes repeated all over again. The truth is Sinhala majority does not want to share The island of Srilanka with Tamils and other minorities having and enjoying equal rights. Tamils and other minorities are also human beings borne with equal rights in this world. What is preventing your executive President even now from making Tamils feel wanted and equal in the country. All these 30 years you were parroting LTTE, Terrorism. Before that you were crowing Separation even when SJVC was asking for Federalism. Even before that When GGP was asking for balanced representation you took the voting rights of upcountry Tamils. When did the Tamil militancy started and why?
    We Tamil nation tirelessly, fearlessly and openly point out to those who speak to us about a creating a multi ethnic Sri Lanka that the conflict continues not because of the LTTE , LTTE sympathisers or diaspora but because a Sinhala Buddhist nation seeks to masquerade as a ‘multi ethnic’ ‘Sri Lankan civic nation’, with a Sinhala Lion Flag, with as yet unrepealed Sinhala Only Act, with Buddhism as the State religion, and with an occupying Sinhala army in the Tamil homeland – a Sinhala army of occupation which was first sent to the Tamil homeland in 1961, long years before the demand for an indedependent Tamil Eelam in 1975.

    TRUTH AND JUSTICE IS PREREQUISITE FOR PEACE IN SRILANKA.

  • 385. Sydney-Tamil  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:08 am

    Chandran said “MR, GR & SF accomplished the mission to save Srilanka. We must never forget our brave soldiers from army, navy, air force who sacrificed their life to eliminate the terrorist.”

    I guess you are really a ‘chandra’ colouring yourself as Chandran. One atrocity does not have to justify another; If you feel you should not forget the ‘poor’ SL soldiers, then you must not forget the ‘poor’ LTTE’ers. If you remember the atrocities commanded by VP, pottu etc, then you should remember the atrocities commited by MR, SF, and GR !

  • 386. ananda  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:19 am

    Give us a break D…B…S…J…

    OK.Take a break……………….DBSJ

  • 387. Mahesh  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:56 am

    #359 Navin

    US and other countries use these kind of drone attacks against citizens of other countries. Sri Lanka is using the aeriel bombardment, shelling, mortar attacks against its own citizens.

    That is the problem.

    Tamils were not the first to take up the arms. VP came after Chelva and Amirthalingam.

    What happened to the Chelva-sena pact, Chelva-Dudley pact. Also think how much of this conflict is due to the Sinhala only act. Think of the various pogroms against the Tamils from 1948 onwards.

    Think about Various atrocities like Welikade etc.

    You can’t put all the blame on the Tamils. Your role is very very crucial and substantial.

    People even after all this are not willing to learn from history.

    Those who forget history are condemned to repeat it.

    Whereever Tamils are living in the world, they live peacefully with their hard labor.

    They are one of the hard working and smart people on the planet Earth.

    The Tamil problem in your country is also due to the way they were treated by you.

  • 388. Aravinda  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 7:44 am

    Remember, LTTE killing 600 surrendered unarmed policemen and government officers in 1990. LTTE had given assurence to President Premadasa that they would be not harmed. They were innocent men working for a legally elected government. These 3 butchers who were killed in Vellimullivaikkal had blood of thousands in their hands. Why bother?

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Whenever someone refers to the 600 cop surrendees being massacred by the LTTE and try to justify the killing of LTTE surrendees by the state on that count I take delight in pointing out that the man responsible “Col” Karuna is now a minister in the Rajapakse regime. I do so again

  • 389. Palani  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 8:00 am

    It is sad to see people are commenting DBS in an ugly way. I don’t understand why people are so much rage to give a decision to kill a person.

    Dears brothers remember it is all about a situation where

    “Armed person killing an unarmed person”

    We are rationalizing this by saying LTTE did this ago.

    One day (?) it was Government
    Yesterday it was LTTE
    Now it’s again Government

    Remember by friends when there is no enemy u will fight among u because it is u r mentality not to forgive or to take the punishment though legal framework.

    You all will take ages to reach so called civilized citizen.

    Release all innocents in the jail, and punish Tamils / Singhalese who had done war crime

    It is not for today, it is for tomorrow

    It is for u r kid, and for better Sri Lanka (my mother land)

    Kandasamy

  • 390. sjoseph  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 9:02 am

    This is the war time story written by a Srilankan Tamil writer, based on eye witness accounts of his acquitances and friends. In the past the world noticed, even the eye witness accounts by LTTE Tamil Doctors were reversed in no time. We can this article as a speculative war time story. If challenged by Srilankan Army, SF and GR in Srilankan courts, this eye witness accounts may not stand the scrutiny. Fortunately, DBS is not living in Srilanka.

    They cant challenge cos they know tis true. Let em conduct a credible probe if they can……………DBSJ

  • 391. dilshan f  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 11:06 am

    Dear DBSJ,

    sorry for the late responce. I was in Trinco on work and now I am back. If you need responce on Trinco from me please do ask.

    Thank you for your responce I agree that as a responsible govt, there should be impartial inquiry at least to let the Tamil people know what happened.

    No Tissanayagam was not with me. But we have our class group which has been through for the last 40 odd years. I am 49.

    I am personally very worried about the present election and the choices the tamils and the singhalese have. I hope and pray that the present peace will see great dividends for the Tamil people to put back what the war sucked out.

    I am seeing new onion fields next to army mini camps being ciltivated. maybe I should send you some pics. Its beautiful to see green shoots and grown earth. This in Trinco Nilaveli area. There is a new road too now from Town along nilaveli. The beach is still breathtaking.

    Thanks Dilshan and why dont you please send some pix with captions?………….DBSJ

  • 392. Irfan  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 11:51 am

    Very good artical. your readers salutes you

  • 393. Liyanage  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 3:40 pm

    More than 30 years, LTTE ran its terror campaign based on deception. They exploited the peace talks everytime since Thimpu talks just to get themselves organised and continue with their terror. When the current president offered them the olive branch, what did the “Thalaivar” do? He mocked the president by boasting that Kilinochi will never be captured. They were asked to surrender a number of times but they decided to wait until the last minute. My question is why didn’t they instruct Theepan to surrender with his cadres when they were boxed in? It is easy to ask someone else to die for your cause, isn’t it?

  • 394. MM  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 3:50 pm

    # 371

    So at least in going with this surrender path, Mr. Nadasan has been able to bring some limelight, and also it will be extended to the broader suffering s of the people at the hands of LTTE and Sri Lanka.

    Hope the ‘pro’ LTTE dispora will see that in the final stages “National Leader” was not able to do at least this.

  • 395. James Thenuwera  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 4:23 pm

    MR is scared to come to a debate with SF because he knows he will lose wholesome. This shows who is the better leader – of course SF. Why should SF debate with Weerawanse when the Great Debat should be between MR and SF.

    Maybe they can”Debate” about this incident too……………..DBSJ

  • 396. shankar  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:22 pm

    If SF sabotaged the surrender why doesn’t Mahinda order an independent inquiry into this. Problem over, SF will be in deep trouble, and Mahinda kills 2 birds with one stone. The fact that he has not done it clearly shows who the culprit is.

    I remember when Sampanthan wanted to visit some IDP’s he contacted Gota, but Gota said he can’t. Sampanthan said then he will have to speak to the President. Gota said that even the President can’t overturn my order.

    Mahinda giving assurances to the international community is of no use if Gota was not agreeable.

    Anyway to stop all speculation just conduct a independent investigation into this incident. it won’t take 2 days. It has not been done in 6 months. Why is that?

    As Sherlock Holmes said “Elementary my dear Watson……………DBSJ

  • 397. Sam Lank  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 6:55 pm

    364. WJ

    WJ, all ethnic groups got hurt, due to LTTE terrorism, JVP terrorism, and GOV terrorism. JVP had killed thousands. One of my uncles was murdered just because he repainted his parapet wall after JVP painted some strange slogans. There were thousands of innocent Tamils, Muslims and Sinhalese were murdered because of Tamil terrorism. When we have a third world country, fighting brutal terrorism, regardless Tamil LTTE terror or Sinhala JVP terror, it is impossible to expect a perfect and humane counter-terrorist execution. Both sides of the conflict(s) go overboard and violence and injustice recur. As we have seen even developed and rich countries were not able to do the same.
    However, in recent history, we should agree Sinhala civilians were not against Tamil civilians and vise-versa. Who are these civilians? They are the very same of us, Sinhalese, Tamil’s and Muslims. Yours truly had an entire Tamil family of 6 hidden inside the home for 3 weeks during 1983 unfortunate incident. Does this mean I should not condemn or not fight against terrorism by the same community who were protected by many Sinhalese ordinary people? People like us will always protect Tamil’s and provide justice to them, but at the same we will never allow terrorism to win regardless the cause they are fighting for.

    LTTE was claiming to fight for a cause, supported by majority number of Tamil population. Government was fighting a brutal terrorism, supported by majority of Sinhala population. You can not expect a temple atmosphere in the war front or during a war. Due to terrorism we experienced hundreds dying every month. Those who died or got hurt were from military, terrorist groups, and also from civilian population of both sides. The correct and tactical solution immediately was to stop this death and destruction, which resulted in more death and destruction for a short timeframe. Now we know death and destruction has been pretty much diminished, but there are instances of scattered incidents. Overall, entire world noticed an improvement. We should position all our energy on this elevated positive direction and attempt to consolidate strategically on it. Rather focusing on what has happened in the past, we should leverage positive vibrations and demand MR/GOV to be progressive and provide a sound economic and political solution to issues that cause suffering to under-privileged Tamils and also to other ethnic groups. We all can talk about zillion atrocities caused by either side during the conflict, this discussion will never end. I guess DBSJ’s blog is a great place for positive vibrations rather making arguments on negative vibrations.

  • 398. Malinda Suduhumpola  |  January 3rd, 2010 at 7:29 pm

    SB Dissanayake cut my food stamps and with the robbed Samurdhi money he built a palace in Hanguranketha (which palace has become a local tourist site! becasue it is so magnificant). This SB is going to be the next Prime Minister!

    What has SB Dissanayake got to do with this article?…………………DBSJ

  • 399. Surane  |  January 4th, 2010 at 12:09 am

    DBSJ Please clarify:

    According to your investigations:

    1. General Fonseka was in China from May 10th to the 17th ; and

    2. Gotabaya informed the General of the arrangement to Surrender only at 3:30 AM on the 18th of May ; and

    3. At 6 :20 AM on the 18th of May, the surenderees were still alive ( as phone call was made to Nadesan) .

    4. I assume they were killed soon after 6:20 AM on the 18th of May.

    How did Gotabaya inform General Fonseka? By email, phone etc.

    If Sarath Fonseka was in China on the 17th of May, where was he on the 18th of May? Was he on a flight back to SL?

    Why was not Gen Fonseka informed of the surrender way in advance?

    Was General Fonseka informed at 3:30 AM on the 18th May , China time or Sri Lanka time?

    My feeling is that if the Rajapakse brothers really wanted to carry out the surrender, they could have made a more genuine effort in carrying it out.

    Well , I believe the truth will prevail one day. But the evidence is too scketchy to blame the General.

    Well Sri Lanka is bankrupt of leaders to rule the country. All politicians, except for a handful, are jokers not fit to even be in the Parliament.

    If a credible probe is undertaken today we dont have to wait for truth to prevail one day………..DBSJ

  • 400. Tissara  |  January 4th, 2010 at 12:22 am

    DBSJ

    You can be a very good author like Sidney Sheldon. Why don’t you try? It is good for everyone.

    Good idea. May be I’ll try it out and see.How many copies of the book will you buy?………….DBSJ

  • 401. Janakan  |  January 4th, 2010 at 1:09 am

    Dear Sir

    I am too yound for politics. I have some doubts.

    What will happen to Karuna if SF got elected as Karuna was also part of LTTE.

    What will happen to KP as the rumors says that he surrendered him self for his good.

    These are most important questions as we feel that who can be a credible president for tamils who are like me.As we hate both for betraying not only their organisation.

    Do not say pls wait as it will be late to decide to make the vote.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Your questions have nothing to do with this article

    You are also lying when you say you are living in Sri Lanka

    Why do you go through this pretence instead of being simply straightforward?

    Karuna MAY lose his ministry post but nothing will happen to him
    Do not believe ALL the rumours you hear about KP

  • 402. WANNIAN  |  January 4th, 2010 at 1:56 am

    We do not worry about this story.
    They got the punishment from God for their crimes against innocent people and human lives.
    We trust God.

  • 403. David Blacker  |  January 4th, 2010 at 2:41 am

    Anonymous #236, I doubt any amount of karuna by Karuna can balance off those 600 cops plus all the others he’s responsible for. I have similar sentiments about Pilliyan. From a political point of view, yes, it is good for the Tamils to have Tamils in government. At least it is a start, and deprives the separatists of ammo. But from a moral viewpoint, the sooner these murderers are replaced the better.

    Militarily, yes Karuna’s defection helped the GoSL capture the East, but his significance was far more in that it proved that the LTTE monolith could be cracked, and that this was not a Sinhalese vs Tamil war. His actual military contribution was far less. By the time of the Karuna defection the LTTE was thoroughly infiltrated by the DMI. The real hard fighting was in the North where Karuna had little to do with it.

    His contribution was significant, but not pivotal. You use every stone as a weapon in war, but stones must be discarded in favour of bricks once you return to peace.

    TCK, it’s too late to investigate Wijeweera’s death. The general officer who executed him at the Colombo Golf Course is now dead — killed by the LTTE. As I said, whether you want to call it karma or the Biblical death by the sword, it’s never too far away in SL. And for men who’ve lived by the sword, I could think of worse ways to die.

    DBSJ, one question — why would the GoSL allow Daya Master, KP, etc, to surrender or be taken prisoner, but not Nadesan and Pullidevan?

    It is possible that the latter two were killed in the confusion rather than as a planned execution. However, it’s unlikely that the SF would’ve killed them by mistake ‘cos these guys have very good comms. DBS, how are you so sure that the shooters were SF? Could you share with us how the witnesses identified the SF?
    And as for why Karuna hasn’t yet been caught by fate, let me quote Kipling’s ‘The Last of the Light Brigade’: “They felt that life was fleeting; they knew not that art was long”.

    Both were shot dead by Special Forces personnel. I have it from the horse’s mouth………DBSJ

  • 404. Malik  |  January 4th, 2010 at 3:11 am

    DBSJ has once again thrown a piece of born for everybody to lick, bark and fight & fight, bark and lick. That much I can understand when I go through the comments posted here. Excellent, keep going. But I have a single complication, as to why DBSJ himself and some others who have put comments asking for / expecting or demanding MR to do a probe in to this incident. Pity that you all haven’t ever heard of the saying, “Turkeys never vote for Christmas”.

  • 405. kapila  |  January 4th, 2010 at 4:23 am

    Mr Jeyaraj, you have repeated this credible inquiry in this blog so many times.

    How come you don’t ask for the return of some of the LTTE
    leaders hiding in the west. After all, people like Adel Balasingham trained your own little beautiful Tamil girls to go for the war, and as suicide bombers and gave them cynide pills from her own hands. This is well documented and plus I have seen from my own eyes the video of Aunty Adel disributing suicide pills.

    Do you think all the 25,000 SLA personnel killed in this war were killed while in active combat.?. Some of them were killed after surrendering to the LTTE, and some others were killed in cold blood after getting shot and fighting for for life. Isn’t that a war crime too.

    Answere these questions Mr Jeyaraj.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    I dont have to answer you but still I guess I’ll humour you

    Anyone killing combatants who surrender or shoot dead injured combatants fighting for life is guilty of a war crime

    Can you send me the video you mentioned please?

    Now I have two questions for you

    1.Why are you posting one comment as Kapila and another as Professor.Kalinga Udugama?
    2.What is your real name if you have one?

  • 406. Professor Kalinga Udugama  |  January 4th, 2010 at 4:33 am

    356 Dr Rohan Serasinghe

    DBSJ to your reply for above writer’s question re.Karuna.
    , I would like to mention this.

    “Retribution is slow, but sure to come”.

  • 407. Pandu Ramanayake  |  January 4th, 2010 at 5:05 am

    Bloody good show DBS, You and Frederica are doing a superb job… We are most grateful for your work to ensuring the extension of the MR’s reign

    May I know who the “WE” are whom you claim to represent?………………DBSJ

  • 408. chanaka  |  January 4th, 2010 at 6:03 am

    DBSJ your writing is very informative and hope your contacts are correct.

    Happy New Year every one.

    Thank you Chanaka alias Kapila a.k.a Prof.Kalinga Udugama. Go get a life……………..DBSJ

  • 409. kapila  |  January 4th, 2010 at 6:41 am

    Do you ever sleep DBSJ ?.

    Not when you are awake…………..DBSJ

  • 410. jan  |  January 4th, 2010 at 6:50 am

    When 600 ploice men were killed , it was a crime and if some one surrender and get killled by govt its justified and try to sweep under the carpet

  • 411. Jayan  |  January 4th, 2010 at 7:00 am

    Dear DBSJ, Why don’t you write a book about Rise and Fall of the LTTE. I am pretty sure it will be a best seller.

  • 412. Surane  |  January 4th, 2010 at 8:01 am

    Many do not belong to the calibre of journalists that DBSJ belong to. They have a long way to go.

  • 413. Navin  |  January 4th, 2010 at 8:16 am

    US and other countries use these kind of drone attacks against citizens of other countries. Sri Lanka is using the aeriel bombardment, shelling, mortar attacks against its own citizens.

    That is the problem.

    Completely wrong. How can it be OK to use your weapons against citizens of other countries when it is not OK to use them against your own? Are citizens of other countries a different kind of human beings to that of yours? Whether its your own citizens or citizens of other countries the suffering is the same.

    The issue is whether there is another alternative. When there is no alternative one has to make do with the least harmful yet effective option.

    It is ridiculous for the west to lament over GOSL use of aerial bombings when they themselves have carried out far more rigorous bombardments in much more populated areas with greater intensity and reckless manner.

    As far as GOSL is concerned it is either you get SLAF destroy the terror hideouts today or tomorrow those suicide bombers will infiltrate the city and blow up a bus load of civilians.

    Tamils were not the first to take up the arms. VP came after Chelva and Amirthalingam.

    Armed struggle was initiated by the Tamils when they perceived the political process won’t yield anything. However, lack of progress on the political front is no excuse for taking up arms. Moreover, once you take up arms on your own, you cannot hold the Sinhalese responsible for the difficulties arising out of the armed conflict.

  • 414. Jack Dee  |  January 4th, 2010 at 8:31 am

    hi DBSJ,

    Compliments of the season!

    A timely piece of writing, considering the current context. It would be upto the voters to wise-up, but I fear we rather have a hobsons-choice here! :(

    They say that ‘the people get the government they deserve’. I dont believe in karma, but what could our nation have done to deserve leaders of this type?! having said that, I also think the Island is truly blessed- considering all that we’ve been through, God is surely trying to bless us!

    I’m really not too sure what would come out of all these allegations & counter allegations, but if we could at least at this Late stage, focus on a truly “Sri Lankan Identity” – Dayan J had written a rather well balanced piece on this a few weeks back in the Island.

    You take up the wrath of our everyday yaKo’s pretty well – we need to always remember, common-sense isn’t common!! ;)

    Keep up the good work my friend and Esto Perpetua!!

    Thank you and compliments of the season to you.Esto Perpetua!…………….DBSJ

  • 415. bob  |  January 4th, 2010 at 9:03 am

    SL elected the First woman PM. Later Followed by some other countries inclufeing Israel Britain Canada

    Now SL is going to Elect a War Criminal. Ill Bet you. this Cannot be achieved by Any Country

    Be First in Everything SL .. Your Denial goes that far

  • 416. AssaiPazham  |  January 4th, 2010 at 11:54 am

    If you look back in history, every country’s government would have failed to keep its promise onetime or other.
    So why its a surprise when SL government didnt keep one ?

  • 417. Gbs. Ganesan  |  January 4th, 2010 at 12:17 pm

    Dear DBSJ

    What do you think is the way forward if all the Tamils are to Unite. You may have given up the hope but there may be reasons to give up hope. Pl publish the reasons so that we may pass it to future generation who may try to change it.

    Tamil Nadu shamelessly watched the massacre of Tamils in SL in 2009 without any remorse. When I was thirteen (in 1983) I remember the strikes that I participated in the school protesting riots in SL and the general mood of the people then. But sadly that is not the situation today.

    I know the number of people committed suicide last year, but I DO KNOW the percent of populations who are sensitive to this issue is very low today compared to 25 years ago.

    I dont want to comment on Eelam or no Eelam because it is for the SL Tamils to decide. But in the issues of right to live and safely, I think as Tamils all of us should stand united.

    Please share your thoughts if time permits. Thanks.

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    This issue is something that requires much thought from multiple perspectives.It would be difficult to write in detail. But one simple question is – what is the basis on which ALL tamils can unite?

    As for your comments on Tamil Nadu. There was and is much sympathy and sorrow for the plight of Sri Lankan Tamils. Sadly those emotions have not been channelled constructively by Tamil Nadu politicians particularly those who have espoused the cause of tigers rather than the Tamil cause

    When people like Nedumaran,Vaiko and Seeman go on uttering bullshit about Prabha being alive and that Eelam war five is coming what can you expect?

  • 418. virsen  |  January 4th, 2010 at 2:02 pm

    to the writer,

    u have written this like u were there in the battlefield at that time…all this is based on hear say stories of ur kind…………..so go fly a kite

    Difficult to get a kite nowadays.”Sarungales” flying merrily at the presidential elections……………..DBSJ

  • 419. Rajah  |  January 4th, 2010 at 2:16 pm

    One of the most interesting reading material in this whole fiasco is the response by those in the SL Gov that want this whole thing to be swept under the carpet. When reading such material, one wonders first about the calibre of such persons in diplomacy, and second as to what depths the pursuit of truth has been pushed down to in SL so as to justify the ends sought after. The material is abundant in hyprocisy, falsity, and last but not least, stupidity. Some things said would make for excellent comedy skits. I sometimes wonder whether you have to pass a test to prove your stupidity and incompetence before you are accepted as a representative or ally of the SL Gov. I suppose if you are rejected, the rejection would have a phrase stating: “Too committed to truth and integrity, and too intelligent. Sorry, rejected.”

    For example, take a look at the following:

    http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2009/12/51419.html

    specifically:

    “Mr. Weerawansa said the statement which the former Army Commander had made, breached the ethics of his profession. He explained that even a professional who works for a biscuit factory is not supposed to reveal its recipes if he joins a competitor s company”

    and:

    “He said killing those who come to surrender themselves during a war is considered as a war crime under international law and those international forces will make use of this statement to take action against the Sri Lankan Government. Is this not a great betrayal, he asked.”

    So let me get this straight. Sri-Lanka is a signatory to the Geneva conventions and other UN HR treaties. The Geneva conventions as does even the constitution of Sri-Lanka has as its foundation – Truth. Truth is not relative and is not dependent on circumstances or anything else. The Truth is the independent Truth, end of story. According to Weerewansa, Fonseka speaking the truth is a “great betrayal” of the country. The very fact that Weerawansa even considers this a “betrayal” belies the fact that even Weerawansa believes that the war crimes occured and lends more credence to Fonseka’s statement. But Weerawansa is obviously too stupid to realise it. But Weerawansa prefers Fonseka to not speak the truth, a nice way of saying that he prefers Fonseka to lie. As long as the country is not “betrayed”, it is OK to lie. In other words, to hell with the truth, we have an agenda and we will lie to the hilt to suit our agenda. Sri-Lanka, which is sitting on so many lies, has a bright future indeed, and that too, with Buddhism as its majority religion. Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn’t speaking the truth a core aspect of Buddhism?
    Then there is the biscuit-factory statement. Where do these morons get their ideas from? That this fool is comparing the work, integrity, and ethics of an army-commander to that of a biscuit-factory employee is nothing short of astounding. But it speaks volumes of how he viewed this war. The truth about whether war-crimes occured or not is compared to a secret biscuit formula!! I suppose Weerawansa considers the masses of innocent civilians killed as boxes of biscuits that did not have the proper ingredients and were therefore thrown away.
    And last but not least, even using the biscuit-factory comparison, the moron belies his inherent hypocrisy. If Weerawansa truly believes that ethically, an employee should not reveal secrets when he goes to the competition, then why hasn’t he claimed the same when the employee named Karuna from the LTTE biscuit-factory was telling all the secrets to the competition? Why didn’t he call Karuna out and tell the SL Gov to not accept this “unethical employee from the other biscuit-factory”, especially the secrets he was revealing? It is clear that his ethics only matters when its his biscuit-factory’s secrets that are involved, not other biscuit-factories – pure comedic hypocrisy.

  • 420. Rajah  |  January 4th, 2010 at 2:53 pm

    #403 -David

    “DBSJ, one question — why would the GoSL allow Daya Master, KP, etc, to surrender or be taken prisoner, but not Nadesan and Pullidevan? ”

    This should be obvious. Daya Master, a mere translator who was not in active duty for the LTTE for the last 2 years or so , cannot be compared to Nadesan and Puleedevan. Daya Master did not surrender with the LTTE’s consent and there was no “deal” between the SL Gov, international actors and the LTTE regarding his surrender. The SL Gov knew that this can be treated as a pure defection and propaganda mileage could be gained from it on their own terms. It was just them and Daya Master. With Nadesan and Pulideevan, the surrender was part of a deal with the blessings of the LTTE and international actors. The SL Gov knew that this was going to be a ticking time-bomb because they are not in complete control of the surrender, they are not sure that they can steer the surrender to their liking and what if the surrenderees become more of a threat later when the international actors that arranged the surrender want to talk to them or want them to have fair trials, etc. Had Nadesan and Puleedevan been defectors, they would not have been killed. With KP the answer is obvious. He has information that they need, so until they get all of it, he will be kept alive.

  • 421. Sam Nathan  |  January 4th, 2010 at 3:59 pm

    Many Sinhalese make comments like LTTE terrorists deserve this. Well, for us (Tamils) there are so many terrorists: JRJ (for 83 pogrom), all the Sinhalese mobs involved in 83 pogrom, all other presidents, army heads, army personnel who ordered/involved in shelling, bombing, white van abductions, etc are terrorists.

  • 422. Gopal  |  January 4th, 2010 at 7:26 pm

    Good expose artical

    Govt must have inquiry

  • 423. Kalu Albert  |  January 4th, 2010 at 7:56 pm

    Comment 417 has put forward a very pertinent question.

    Good starting point for a discussion is to list all areas which the Tamil People in Srilanka think are discriminatory.

    Few things that come to my mind are

    Education
    Employment
    Security checks

    These are the most important aspects as far as the children and grand children are concerned going forward.

    Now that the LTTE is not there these issues can be addressed quite readily if the Government get unanimous cooperation from the Tamil community there.

  • 424. Gopal  |  January 4th, 2010 at 10:12 pm

    DBSJ
    we expect you to write more articals like this exposing mahinda govt humman rights cases

  • 425. Gopal  |  January 5th, 2010 at 2:32 am

    DBSJ

    Where has Mangala Premarathne and James Thenuwara gone?

    Must be usy canvassing in elections……………DBSJ

  • 426. kapila  |  January 5th, 2010 at 3:56 am

    I hear UN sending team to probe war crimes in lanka

  • 427. Gopal  |  January 5th, 2010 at 4:21 am

    I heard reliably that special forces were ordered to kill Ltte surrendered leaders by Gota and not Sarath. This what friend in Jaffna told me that Sarath had told Bishop Thomas.My friend catholic man

  • 428. Kris Laks  |  January 5th, 2010 at 4:45 am

    Thanks JeyaRaj for your tru comments about the incidents happend at the last stage of genocial war on Tamils!!!
    The war crimes committed by racist sinhale rgime will be proped & punished without fail!!! Only time will answer!!

  • 429. David Blacker  |  January 5th, 2010 at 5:05 am

    Rajah, your logic is inconsistent. Daya Master, Pullidevan and Nadesan all surrendered. There was no ‘defection’ by Nadesan. He surrendered. A defection is a preplanned changing of sides. If at all, it was Nadesan & Pullidevan who ‘defected’ since they arranged their surrender beforehand. The fact that this pair had been ordered to surrender by VP wasn’t even known til later, so in many ways it would have in fact looked like aa personal defection, similar to Himmler’s attempted negotiation with the western Allies in 1945. Either way, I find the distinction too slim to be worth consideration.

    Also, if you think Pullidevan & Nadesan would have no useful info you must be very naive. Just as KP had knowledge of the LTTE’s international ops, the former duo would have plenty of info on hidden weapons caches, whereabouts of LTTE operatives, etc. Nadesan, as former head of the LTTE police would have been privy to a lot of the Tigers’ civil defence, training, prisons and prisoner info.

    Your theory holds very little water, I’m afraid.

  • 430. citizensl  |  January 5th, 2010 at 5:44 am

    comment 387
    “Whereever Tamils are living in the world, they live peacefully with their hard labor. ”
    They are one of the hard working and smart people on the planet Earth.”

    Really? When will we in Sri-Lanka get to see this hard work and smartness…..let me be a little glib and say that over the last 20 years all we’ve seen is a section of Tamizhs being very smart at
    -manufacturing jonny mines,
    -blowing up buses,
    -inducting suicide bombers dressed up as pregnant women
    -massacering other moderate tamizhs
    -ethincally cleansing muslims and sinhalese from the North
    -Raising funds for terrorists
    -Insider trading on Wall Street
    -Arms smuggling
    -People smuggling and sneaking into western countries as illegal immigrants
    how super smart and hard working certain tamizhs were no?

    However now that the SLA hacked the super supreme Velu P and took care of his henchman (including the ones mentioned in DB’s article) and we have some semblance of peace MAYBE I’ll get to see the hard work and smartness of the tamizhs.

    guess what? we will have to thank the SLA and the special forces for this semblance of peace no?

  • 431. kapila  |  January 5th, 2010 at 6:58 am

    Isn’t it early morning in Canada now ?. The time here in SL is 5.30 p.m.
    so you must be sleeping and that is why you did not answer my question.
    Cheers.

  • 432. shankar  |  January 5th, 2010 at 7:12 am

    #425 Gopal

    Thenuwara busy looking for a chastity belt.

  • 433. indi.ca » Cluedo In&hellip  |  January 5th, 2010 at 7:28 am

    [...] what is an actual event. LTTE leaders were killed, reportedly while they were trying to surrender. Jeyaraj was looking into it and he says they were killed by Army Special Forces while they were trying to surrender to the 58th [...]

  • 434. pandaravanian  |  January 5th, 2010 at 9:06 am

    Kalu Albert,423,
    “Few things that come to my mind are

    Education
    Employment
    Security checks”

    Why did not these come in to the Sinhala / your mind before the LTTE was formed and the lose of so many lives.? Have any of the conditions Changed which prevailed in before 1975?

    A Sinhala Buddhist nation seeks to masquerade as a ‘multi ethnic’ ‘Sri Lankan civic nation’, with a Sinhala Lion Flag, with as yet unrepealed Sinhala Only Act, with Buddhism as the State religion, and with an occupying Sinhala army in the Tamil homeland – a Sinhala army of occupation which was first sent to the Tamil homeland in 1961, long years before the demand for an interdependent Tamil Eelam in 1975. PLEASE THINK !!

    Before 1975 I was one of IDPs / Refugee in my own country sent to my home land after spending few days in an IDP camp by a Ship hired from India. Then again in 1977 after spending a night in a similar camp in Kandy and send back to my home land in a convoy of buses for safety from Sinhala (guess whom) civilians/thugs. Why could not Srilankan /Sinhala Army, Police, Judiciary could protect me, in Colombo, Kandy or any part of Srilanka??. If Majority of Sinhala Srilankans are civilised and not against Tamils living with equality, dignity, and justice.

    These were before even Ltte or other armed militants knew how to lite even a petrol bomb.
    I CHALANGE YOU
    You the majority of Sinhala Srilankan Show to us that You are civilised and really practicing what the honourable Buddha has taught you. Show us your true colours. To show your greatness you do not need our consent. After all you were able to change your constitution with out our consent in 1972.

  • 435. Gamini Perea  |  January 5th, 2010 at 9:12 am

    Enough time and energy has been wasted in writing and commenting on just three – just three! – terrorists. Thanks God that Gota, Shavendra or who ever send them to meet their maker, prematurely. Let this be a shining example for want-to-be or to-be terrorists of the future. We shall deal with them in the same manner. The UN is not God and their version of Human Rights is not universal!

  • 436. Truthseer  |  January 5th, 2010 at 12:12 pm

    417. Gbs. Ganesan | January 4th, 2010 at 12:17 pm

    Dear DBSJ

    What do you think is the way forward if all the Tamils are to Unite
    ———————————————————————–
    Gaining unity among tamils is the hardest thing on the planet to achieve. I see the disgusting konnam that many of the Yaalpana tamizhar have. Even to this day.
    Look at the sinhalese. Totally the opposite. They will unite and blame every single problem their see on tamils. Mervyn Silva can drop a bomb right on top of a sinhala village tomorrow and the sinhalese will not call it terrorism unless it involved tamils in some way.
    Fonseka and Mahinda may devolve into a mini war and still the Sinhalese wont call it terror.
    Their grandparents blamed their problems on the tamils with govt jobs during British rule.
    Every day they read bedtime stories called Mahavamsa about how evil tamil people are (ofcourse they water it down in public but i know the Sinhala konnam also very well).
    The Tamils on the other hand, especially the Jaffna crowd are busy bad mouthing other tamils about their caste and how to bring them down.
    So in effect the sinhalese unite in their dislike of tamils.
    Tamils are split. Some dislike the sinhalese and others busy hating their own people.
    There is karma for all to learn.
    The Tamils of North must learn their karma about the dangers of fighting their own people when they have another community that hates all of them.
    The Sinhalese Karma is to let go of their Mahavamsa complex. Something they are struggle to do.
    But believing in fairy tales in the 21st century wont do.
    India did not use the Mahabaratha and ramayana as a national mindset to move the nation forward.
    The Sinhalese have to learn very fast, they no longer have the LTTE scapegoat to keep blaming all the problems on. Its evident that all the developing problems are caused by the Sinhalese.

  • 437. Truthseer  |  January 5th, 2010 at 12:42 pm

    Navin
    Armed struggle was initiated by the Tamils when they perceived the political process won’t yield anything.
    ——————————–
    I dont know what planet you came from.
    How many years of riots did the tamils have to suffer before the LTTE appeared.
    The Sinhalese thugs walked around with guns, knives, petrol, fire in those days.
    That is armed violence.
    I lost family members in Colombo to racial riots long before LTTE appeared. The tamils for many years ran scared. They tried peaceful protests for years and many got beaten up by police and thugs for it.
    Please learn to accept that it was the fault of the sinhalese for violence. dont try to worm around it.
    Even during british rule the sinhalese were very quick to go on riots. One being the 1915 attack on the muslim community. There was one in 1930 against the hindu community.
    I admit the LTTE turned into a long term problem. But they are not the cause of the problem. All sane people know that.
    As i mentioned in my earlier post, now that LTTE is not there, we will all see the sinhalese violent tendencies unfold. Only this time, not LTTE to blame it on.
    This is the karma the sinhalese are going to learn.

  • 438. Truthseer  |  January 5th, 2010 at 1:03 pm

    206. P_Mahen | December 29th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    It is sad to see, how events unfolded. Sri Lankans never behaved like humans. They even killed a mentally retarded person on the beach while hundereds witnessing. No action taken.
    What do we expect from these cold blooded inhuman hearts.
    They managed to brand LTTE as a terrorist organization. Now the govt is trying to brand every Tamil as a terrorist. Govt, recruits are doing this job on the web. The sad part of it is, they are using the tamils to kill tamils.
    Mr.DBS, i am proud, atleast you are brave enough to challenge the injustice. keep up your good work.
    A regime change may give some hope
    ————————————————————-
    The LTTE turned into terror organisation i am sorry to say. Initially their appearance was good. it stopped the Sinhala thugs from rioting year after year like a national past time to kill minorities.
    But the LTTE lost the plot by killing their own tamil people, extorting money, child soldiers etc
    The GOSL is also a terror group. They are the state terrorists. Something the majority of Mahavamsa Sinhalese will never admit to.
    There wont be any 3D justice. the Western world and the superpower nations dont give a damn about the people of the island. They just want to take the natural resources and claim corporate rights. All their talk of human rights is hypocritical and phony. They have killed more people in Iraq and Afghanistan in just few years than the 25 year civil war in Lanka.
    Even now, i am convinced that it was the USA that put Sarath Fonseka up to this whole thing to contest against Mahinda. Reason being is that Western world wants to regain control of Sri Lanka back from China.
    Mahinda is China/India
    Fonseka is the West.
    Therefore a supernatural cycle of Karma will take care of all who need it. The Karma takes time to manifest in this dimension

  • 439. Mahesh  |  January 5th, 2010 at 1:10 pm

    #413 Navin.

    The issue in Iraq is different and the issue in Sri Lanka is different. It is useless to talk to one who doesn’t understand this basic difference.

    Either you do not understand or you do not want to understand. You said you will talk about the Chelva-sena and Chelva-Dedley pact.

    yOu have not opened your mouth about it.

    Whether you accept it or not the Tamils didn’t take to arms at the outset. When the political process didn’t take them anywhere and when the accords entered into were abrogated repeatedly they had no choice.

    No matter how you defend your Govt and your armed forces they are tainted.

    In no civilized country does the Welikade or Kaluthra happen. The people responsible for that also go unscathed in your country. In no country do the white van roam about in the streets.

    Jayawewa.

    It is useless talking to one who doesn’t or one who will not understand what democracy is.

    You live in your own world. I do not want to disturb you.

    I also do not want to talk to one who will deny history like Operation Poomalai.

    Those who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it.

    Continue writing like this and people like you will make the international community to think in terms of Kosova like solution to sri lanka.

  • 440. Truthseer  |  January 5th, 2010 at 1:18 pm

    189. Rohan | December 29th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

    Everyday, my sister and her husband travelled in two buses to their work. This is because, in case a LTTE bomb explodes in one bus, one of them will survive to take care of their kids.
    ————————————-
    What if both buses exploded?
    I lived in the Western province for many years. My best muslim friends in Sinhala south. Hardly much LTTE attacks in Sinhala areas. The odd bomb now and then. Most of the time the violence was in the north and east.
    Sinhalese love to keep trying to paint this picture of LTTE rampaging through the south year after year killing millions. Its another mental fantasy.
    I am sure the GOSL and JVP killed more Sinhalese in the south during their armed conflict with the JVP than the LTTE did in the south. But sinhalese wont talk much about that. Because they were not tamils.

  • 441. bob  |  January 5th, 2010 at 1:44 pm

    Wheather you like or not , my preference or wish is that , poor sinhalese mass should vote for MR & suffer for the next 6 years. The only reason is MR is only one who can bring poverty to the poor sinhala villagers. They danced to the death of Tamil Civilians- let us see how they beg on the streets.

  • 442. bob  |  January 5th, 2010 at 3:11 pm

    #430 Citizen

    we have some semblance of peace MAYBE I’ll get to see the hard work and

    If you want PEACE – you got to pay for it !! Obey the Rules accept the faults be a smart ass. Otherwise Sinhaese will never get peace …You are now gacing the reality after Post LTTE. What a funny kokers you all are

  • 443. Rajah  |  January 5th, 2010 at 3:52 pm

    429 – David Blake

    Firstly, with a name like “David Blake”, one would think that you would have a good grasp of the English language. But wonders never cease I suppose. Your entire response is riddled with rubbish that clearly shows that either 1. You need to take English comprehension courses, or 2. Your veracity in sticking to your own pet theories is so strong that even proper logic cannot clear such rubbish.

    Lets take a look:

    “Rajah, your logic is inconsistent. Daya Master, Pullidevan and Nadesan all surrendered.”

    Yes. Nowhere did my post claim otherwise. But Daya Master can be viewed as a defector. The other two can’t. A person can be a surrenderee and a defector, a surrenderee alone, or a defector alone. The terms are mutually exclusive.

    “There was no ‘defection’ by Nadesan. He surrendered.”

    Again, yes, this is precisely what I stated in my post too.

    “A defection is a preplanned changing of sides.”

    No it isn’t. A defection is as simple as running away to the other side without notifying your own side because you intend on leaving your own side for good.

    “If at all, it was Nadesan & Pullidevan who ‘defected’ since they arranged their surrender beforehand.”

    Rubbish. Go look up what “defection” and “surrendering” means from a dictionary.

    “The fact that this pair had been ordered to surrender by VP wasn’t even known til later.”

    Again, rubbish. If DBSJ’s contents in this article are to be believed then the SL Armed Forces were well aware that both the LTTE and international actors were aware of the surrender. That is _not_ a defection.

    “so in many ways it would have in fact looked like aa personal defection, similar to Himmler’s attempted negotiation with the western Allies in 1945.”

    No it can’t. Unless you have proof that Nadesan and Puleedevan like Daya Master criticised the LTTE and VP and claimed to have left that side, there in no way this can be seen as a defection.

    “Either way, I find the distinction too slim to be worth consideration.”

    The only thing not worth consideration is your half-baked post.

    “Also, if you think Pullidevan & Nadesan would have no useful info you must be very naive.”

    Nowhere did I make such a claim in my post. I suggest you read my post carefully without putting words in my mouth.

    “Just as KP had knowledge of the LTTE’s international ops, the former duo would have plenty of info on hidden weapons caches, whereabouts of LTTE operatives, etc. Nadesan, as former head of the LTTE police would have been privy to a lot of the Tigers’ civil defence, training, prisons and prisoner info.”

    You are forgetting the other info that this duo had in terms of how the SL Army conducted the war, the civilians killed, the aerial bombings, etc.. To this day, the SL Regime has an iron-grip on such information. Even the doctors were coerced on giving a bullshit press conference because of the information they had, and they are not allowed to leave the country because of this. Because the surrender by Nadesan and Puleedevan were arranged by international actors, these same actors could certainly ask for access to the duo in terms of gathering info on war-crimes, etc. At best, in a fair trial for the duo, the duo could blurt out to the press all the info that the SL Gov. is so scared of letting out. Compared to this happening, the info the duo had on LTTE caches, cadres, etc. are not of much worth.

    “Your theory holds very little water, I’m afraid.”

    Far more water than your rubbish holds, I’m afraid.

  • 444. Navin  |  January 5th, 2010 at 4:44 pm

    Navin
    Armed struggle was initiated by the Tamils when they perceived the political process won’t yield anything.
    ——————————–
    I dont know what planet you came from.
    How many years of riots did the tamils have to suffer before the LTTE appeared.
    The Sinhalese thugs walked around with guns, knives, petrol, fire in those days.
    That is armed violence.
    I lost family members in Colombo to racial riots long before LTTE appeared. The tamils for many years ran scared. They tried peaceful protests for years and many got beaten up by police and thugs for it.
    Please learn to accept that it was the fault of the sinhalese for violence. dont try to worm around it.

    Even during british rule the sinhalese were very quick to go on riots. One being the 1915 attack on the muslim community. There was one in 1930 against the hindu community.
    I admit the LTTE turned into a long term problem. But they are not the cause of the problem. All sane people know that.

    I wonder which particular racial riot(s) LTTE was trying to avenge when it destroyed half the SriLankan Airlines fleet or brought down the central bank?

    I’m not saying Sinhalese aren’t responsible for the current state of affairs. However, it sure wasn’t the state sponsored violence that made Tamils fatten LTTE blank accounts over the years for there was nothing after 1983 to justify the financial inflow that LTTE enjoyed. Further, did LTTE kill Rajiv because IPKF rapped Tamil women….?

    The protracted armed struggle was for the creation of Eelam and Eelam was more about ambitions than Sinhalese goons and discrimination for otherwise armed struggled should have subsided rather than grow in strength in the absence of above reasons that gave rise to it at the beginning.

  • 445. Rajah  |  January 5th, 2010 at 5:14 pm

    444 – Navin

    “I wonder which particular racial riot(s) LTTE was trying to avenge when it destroyed half the SriLankan Airlines fleet or brought down the central bank?”

    Who said anything about “avenging” racial riots? The fact that periodic riots stopped after the rise of the LTTE and what it decided to fight for is the point to me made.

    “I’m not saying Sinhalese aren’t responsible for the current state of affairs. However, it sure wasn’t the state sponsored violence that made Tamils fatten LTTE blank accounts over the years for there was nothing after 1983 to justify the financial inflow that LTTE enjoyed.”

    Ofcourse there was. The very fact that there was nothing after 1983 was even more reason to fatten the LTTE bank accounts.
    The view is the following:
    Before LTTE, periodic riots. After rise of LTTE and their quest for Eelam, riots have stopped. Conclusion: We need Eelam and existense of the LTTE to keep riots from reoccuring.

    “Further, did LTTE kill Rajiv because IPKF rapped Tamil women….?”

    One of the reasons, yes. After all, the killer claimed to have been raped by the IPKF.

    “The protracted armed struggle was for the creation of Eelam and Eelam was more about ambitions than Sinhalese goons and discrimination for otherwise armed struggled should have subsided rather than grow in strength in the absence of above reasons that gave rise to it at the beginning.”

    Rubbish. The protracted armed struggle was indeed about Eelam because many considered Eelam to be a fullstop for recurring riots since independence. Because there is no guarantee that a stop for the quest for Eelam and going back to the status-quo would not give rise to further riots in the future because the threat of an opposition is gone.

    And I personally have a case in point:
    In Colombo, my uncle lives next to a metal shop that does welding and the men there are Sinhalese friends of my uncle though they are uneducated and uncouth. My uncle fled the 1983 riots when thugs burnt his house down and he later took refuge in this house which was given to him by a relative. He has been living there ever since, and this house was not affected in 1983. For 25 years, he knew the men next door and would drink with them and joke with them and even give food and alchohol to them. After the LTTE was defeated this May, during the “victory celebrations”, one of these men during a casual conversation with my uncle over some drinks took a serious tone and told my uncle in Sinhalese point blank that, quote: “In 1983 we missed this house. Next time, we won’t”. An expression of true gratitude ain’t it? But I have more respect for that man who prefers to lay out his heart openly than for those like you who prefer to bullshit yourselves and others instead of facing the bare truth openly.

  • 446. Navin  |  January 5th, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    440. Truthseer:

    Sinhalese love to keep trying to paint this picture of LTTE rampaging through the south year after year killing millions. Its another mental fantasy.

    Wow! I’m sure Sinhalese must be smoking something really good. I didn’t see this for otherwise I wouldn’t have wasted my time to respond to you in 444.

  • 447. shankar  |  January 5th, 2010 at 5:54 pm

    #444 Navin

    The protracted armed struggle was for the creation of Eelam and Eelam was more about ambitions than Sinhalese goons and discrimination
    ——————————————————————————–

    I remember before the 1983 riots the LTTE had less than 50 members. Immediatly after the riots the number swelled to more than 5000 in the militant groups such as LTTE, Telo, EPRLF, Eros.

    JR Jayawardena by allowing the 1983 riots in order to teach a lesson to the Tamils, and his arrogant way of dealing with Indira Ghandhi, is responsible for this protracted armed conflict.

    Tamils are essentially peaceful family loving people. But there is a limit to tolerance when you are at the receiving end of violence inumerable times. The violence among the Sinhalese is also far too excessive and should be curbed.

    That does not mean that the Tamils can justify the killings of innocent Sinhalese. This is a shameful part of our mostly unblemished history because of a madman. Two wrongs can never make a right.

  • 448. Kalu Albert  |  January 5th, 2010 at 6:25 pm

    Comment 434 Pandarawanian,my two uncles and ten cousins were put on a ship and sent to the South and all they had were the clothes that they were wearing..

    There were no camps and no foreigners to look after and take them to Western countries. This happened in 1958 and the Srilankan Army moving there in 1961 is logical to me.So the thuggery is not exclusive to the Sinhalese.

    The baby boomer generation who encountered most of this violence are becoming irrelevant and impotent going forward.The future belongs to the X and Y generations.The baby boomers at least can give them a solid plat form for them to move forward without animosity and prejudices.

    21 Century is all about living in Global Villages Separate homelands for different ethnic groups are not relevant in this day and age.,Unless these are like the Reserves that the Westerners run for their economically and socially deprived original inhabitants of these countries.

    The items that I listed are the most important as far as the future generations are concerned. If you guys also come out with what you think should be done with in reason. that will lead to constructive discussions here.

  • 449. James T henuwera  |  January 5th, 2010 at 8:16 pm

    #444 Puthe Navin
    I am very happy in the manner you have analysed the conflict very correctly. Well done

  • 450. Ram Chetty  |  January 5th, 2010 at 9:11 pm

    From 1956 to 1983 Tamils were masacred on regular basis and in 1983 over 1500 Tamils were murdered and thousands of Tamils were repatriated by ships to Jaffna. This was only reason why LTTE and Prapakaren came into existence. At least now Singhalese bigots should realise who caused the problem. Malaysia vounteerily permitted Singapore to secede now both Countries are prosperous. Now it is time everyone from lern from their mistakes.

  • 451. Govirala  |  January 5th, 2010 at 9:43 pm

    Comment 441 Bob,

    Northern Tamil people were very rich at one stage.That was whittled down to absolute poverty and desperation and finally in to refugee status. I don’t think the suffering, these once proud people went through, will never happen in the South.I will never wish anyone to suffer like these people.

    On the other hand poor Southerners slowly but surely got ahead.They are quite comfortable relative to what it was 25 years ago.Mind you poverty is relative.

    Bob may observe this progress himself if he cares to pay a visit to rural South.

  • 452. Peadenik  |  January 5th, 2010 at 10:06 pm

    In these detailed discussions nothing has been said about what happened to Pottu Amman,who was the second most imprortant leader next to Prabakaran.

    I wonder whether he escaped with Daya Master,knowing the looming fate. Being the smart intelligence chief he was, he would have been privy to some info that t was not available to others including Prabakaran.

    With the third most important leader now under government protection,may be the same fate would have fallen on PA.

    The next stage of the overseas operations would focus on Adele Balasingham,who was an active member of the Fighters She was responsible for the training of Girl Tigers.KP and PA will be part of the operation,

  • 453. WJ  |  January 5th, 2010 at 10:10 pm

    # 397 Sam Lank – “all ethnic groups got hurt” – you may be true here..somewhat, however no other suffered like the Tamil civilians here like any other community here. Especially many villagers who had no choice between govt. and LTTE.

    The point is the indifference shown by the govt. to Tamils victims than the others, by the Government. And there is the premise of claim by overseas Tamils of “genocide”

  • 454. Fran  |  January 5th, 2010 at 10:38 pm

    #444
    Terrorists are created not born as one.
    Terrorism is not an ideology, it is a weapon used by state and non state actors.
    If we do not understand this, we will not solve any crisis or injustice, be a stagnant state of mind.
    Tamil militancy is simply created by policy undertaken by post-independence Sri lanka. If SL Gov../ sinhalese fail to recognize this , inviting more trouble in different forms in the future, not only from minorities but also from majority community itself.

    I

  • 455. David Blacker  |  January 6th, 2010 at 12:59 am

    “Firstly, with a name like “David Blake”,”

    Rajah, first of all I would expect that you can actually read English when it’s in front of you in black & white. My name is not “David Blake”. If you cannot even READ English, how can I expect you to put forth an abstract idea?

    However, I’ll assume you’re just hasty and not plain stupid, and indulge you.

    “Rubbish. Go look up what “defection” and “surrendering” means from a dictionary.”

    Well if the SL Army was checking in a dictionary before shooting people, you might actually have a point. However, what’s relevant here is that in the context we’re talking about, there was very little difference between the two. Daya Master ran away and surrendered. Pullidevan & Nadesan were ordered to surrender and attempted to do so. If you want to define either of these as defections, you’re free to. The point is. while the former — out of the LTTE for two years (as you say) was allowed to live though probably had little useful info, the latter two who would have been useful prisoners were killed. That is the relevant point here, not silly dictionary definitions.

    ME: ““The fact that this pair had been ordered to surrender by VP wasn’t even known til later.”

    YOU: “Again, rubbish. If DBSJ’s contents in this article are to be believed then the SL Armed Forces were well aware that both the LTTE and international actors were aware of the surrender. That is _not_ a defection.”

    Please, Rajah, try not to display your idiocy so blatantly. Nowhere in this article does DBSJ state that anyone in the GoSL or the Armed Forces were aware that the duo had been ORDERED to surrender. Certain members of the GoSL knew that the duo wanted to surrender, that’s all. There was no indication (as far as we know) that this was anything other than a personal move by P&N. It was only later that it came to be known that it was a 3-part plan — VP’s breakout, P&N’s surrender, and the last-ditch stand by VP’s son.

    ME: “so in many ways it would have in fact looked like aa personal defection, similar to Himmler’s attempted negotiation with the western Allies in 1945.”

    YOU: “No it can’t. Unless you have proof that Nadesan and Puleedevan like Daya Master criticised the LTTE and VP and claimed to have left that side, there in no way this can be seen as a defection.”

    Rajah, does your ignorance have no limits? Daya Master criticized the Tigers AFTER his surrender, not before. P&N, would have done the same. I can bet you KP will eventually do the same when we’re done with him.

    ME: “Also, if you think Pullidevan & Nadesan would have no useful info you must be very naive.”

    YOU: “Nowhere did I make such a claim in my post. I suggest you read my post carefully without putting words in my mouth.”

    Really? This is what you said: “Had Nadesan and Puleedevan been defectors, they would not have been killed. With KP the answer is obvious. He has information that they need, so until they get all of it, he will be kept alive.”

    In your last sentence you’ve said that KP had info and that’s why he wasn’t killed. In other words, P&N had no useful info and therefore were killed. Anything else you want to contradict and lie about, Rajah?

    You’ve also said that P&N’s surrender couldn’t be “managed” by the GoSL and that international players would demand access to them. KP has been managed quite well, and the GoSL hasn’t let anyone have access to him except at the GoSL’s choosing.

    Any other silly arguments you have, Rajah? Or would you like to go back and deny you said something? :)

    “You are forgetting the other info that this duo had in terms of how the SL Army conducted the war, the civilians killed, the aerial bombings, etc.. To this day, the SL Regime has an iron-grip on such information. Even the doctors were coerced on giving a bullshit press conference because of the information they had, and they are not allowed to leave the country because of this. Because the surrender by Nadesan and Puleedevan were arranged by international actors, these same actors could certainly ask for access to the duo in terms of gathering info on war-crimes, etc. At best, in a fair trial for the duo, the duo could blurt out to the press all the info that the SL Gov. is so scared of letting out. Compared to this happening, the info the duo had on LTTE caches, cadres, etc. are not of much worth.”

    Ha ha you mean the sort of info that Daya and KP also have, but which the GoSL is keeping an iron grip on? Has the GoSL given a fig for what any foreign player wants? N&P would have been treated exactly how the GoSL wanted, and no other way, just as they have done with the docs, KP, Daya, the IDPs, and the thousands of Tiger prisoners. If you think N&P had some miraculous status where they would’ve strutted around giving speeches on GoSL war crimes, you’re a bigger idiot than you’ve already proven yourself. I suggest you stop digging yourself in deeper.

    “Rubbish” seems to be your favourite reply to everyone here, but it looks like all you have to say is rubbish.

    “Far more water than your rubbish holds, I’m afraid.”

    Perhaps you’re having bladder problems then. Have a pee and go to sleep, kid.

  • 456. Jey  |  January 6th, 2010 at 1:42 am

    DBSJ,
    Dont you think,even during the final phase of the war,the LTTE was sending away mixed signals.

    From this article and the one you published in May,the LTTE took three actions simultaneously

    -One faction(The Political division) tried to surrender and got executed
    -One faction launched a pitched battle to break out from the cordoned area
    -One faction again fought hard to hold back the advancing SLA

    Considering that the LTTE was the master of deception,how was the SLA expected to know the clearcut intention of each of the parties?Once they decided to surrender,they could have taken a single decision and implemented it,isnt it?

    What do you think made them take such confusing actions?

    They were not in control and therefore confused……………….DBSJ

  • 457. Navin  |  January 6th, 2010 at 1:57 am

    454. Fran:

    #444
    Terrorists are created not born as one.
    Terrorism is not an ideology, it is a weapon used by state and non state actors.
    If we do not understand this, we will not solve any crisis or injustice, be a stagnant state of mind.
    Tamil militancy is simply created by policy undertaken by post-independence Sri lanka. If SL Gov../ sinhalese fail to recognize this , inviting more trouble in different forms in the future, not only from minorities but also from majority community itself.

    Sinhalese politics have come along way since independence and its mistakes in the 30’s 60’s 70’s and 80’s. If the B-C/D-C pacts was rejected by the Sinhalese in the 60s CBK-Thiruchelvam pact was rejected by the Tamils/LTTE in 2000 and you are still saying it is the Sinhalese who should recognize and compromise! Mr. Fran, it has
    been a long time since Sinhala only act was abolished and there is nothing left to compromise beyond CBK’s package– not that I believe the latter a viable solution.

  • 458. Tilak  |  January 6th, 2010 at 2:30 am

    Dear Mr DSBJ, All the time I have respected you because you appear to be an impartial journalist. However I am very disappointed with you after reading your article. Sunday leader published that SF has said to her that Gota has ordered killing. But there were no any electronic or documentary or verbal evidence. (These days even from a mobile phone you can record a conversation). When SF said that he has heard it from a journalist, Sunday Leader Editor confirmed it two days ago. This does not mean that SF has told ” Gota has ordered”. As very responsible journalist you need to find that journalist and find the truth. I think repeating the original twisted version will be a bonus to the corruption and family favouritism etc.,

    I am saying the special forces killed them and not 58 div as alleged and backtracked by Fonseka………DBSJ

  • 459. Indira  |  January 6th, 2010 at 3:06 am

    Dear DBSJ

    I have been reading your articles for a long time. Your reporting is excellent. Wish you would write a book on your findings and thoughts on this senseless war. I would definitely buy a copy.
    All the best for the New Year. God Bless

    Thank you and all the best for 2010………………DBSJ

  • 460. Jey  |  January 6th, 2010 at 6:39 am

    DBSJ,
    Thanks for the response.

    Just completed reading ReportNo34 of UTHR.That did some insight into the apparent mixed signals from LTTE.

    As per that report,a surrender process was agreed upon between the GoSL and the LTTE,wherein,even the topbrass would have been given a safe passage.

    So,the surrender did include the LTTE supremo himself.

    As part of that,the LTTE instead of handing over their armaments chose to set them ablaze(We all saw those pics with dark smoke emanating from the warfront) and also let go of the civilians.

    But once the Tiger’s kept their side of the agreeement,the GoSL chose not to implement their side and went for the kill.So the Tiger’s made a last ditch attempt to breakthrough and were nailed

    I do believe,you must have in some ways contributed to those reports as well.Are those the facts or still something is hidden?

    The fact that the LTTE topbrass decided to surrender,comes as a damp squib,considering they readily gave away thousands of other lives and when it came to their own,they forgot the cause they fought for

    DBSJ RESPONDS:

    Prabhakaran did not surrender or was taken prisoner. He fought and died.He was not part of the Nadesan group surrender. Prabhakaran fought and died on the battlefield

    There were many attempts at negotiating a laying down of arms but they did not succeed.Prabhakaran never agreed to surrender or surrendered. People are confusing these. There is also subtle propaganda by state elements to deflect attention away from the massive human rights violations, war crimes and crimes against humanity that occurred.

    I have already written in May 2009 itself about the three pronged strategy of Prabhakaran and others like Pottu, Soosai etc, attempting to break out through the military cordon , a last ditch stand headed by his son Charles Anthony, and surrender moves by Nadesan-Pulidevan.

    I am not part of the UTHR(J) organization and have not contributed to their reports. I have a lot of respect for them and concur with most of what they report. But I do not subscribe to all what they report. At the same time I have no intention of entering into a debate or discussion on this. What is more important is to focus on the points we agree upon and keep demanding accountability

  • 461. Lakshman  |  January 6th, 2010 at 8:05 am

    DBS,
    Firstly wish you a happy and a peaceful 2010
    This is another piece of committed journalism presenting available facts to give an insight.
    As real facts are still unknown and sensitive material won’t be released due to national interests and in an operation of that scale with layers of security forces, not to mention the confusion at that theatre of war, any probe won’t provide answers to many unanswered questions, rather raise many questions an end up like a witch hunt and disturb the hard earned peace in the country, only some academics will benefit with such a probe as Geneva Convention excludes terrorism.

    Just to be fair to each and every honourable citizens who met with untimely death and permanent injuries due to terrorist acts for the past 30 odd years, starting from Dorai Appa in 1976. I would like to ask this question on their behalf. What is so special about their so called surrender in the 11th hour after 30 years of mayhem and loosing genuine opportunities at Peace Talks, if they had a real peace in mind. Such probe is none other than exercising ‘criminals rights against innocents plight’.

    In SL context rulers duty is to crush any rebellion and maintain the order, rebellion is a punishable offence, penalty is death.
    Kepetipola faced the same fate under Brownrigg and so as several other chieftains under ancient kings.
    JVP rebellion under Mrs B in 1971 & 1988 and the latest LTTE under MR in 2009.
    The difference in the current context is so called international community comes with carrots and sticks with ulterior motives, leaders like RW preferred the carrot, where as MR somehow holds the stick which makes other leaders envious. Therefore if there is going to be any probe it’ll be in his terms.

    MR asked for a mandate in 2006 for an honourable peace and he pursued it. In the eyes of the average citizen he has delivered tangible peace. Also he united all communities which is the 1st quality of a good leader.

    His knowledge of Tamil added a bonus. RW went to north yesterday and spoke unknown Tamil and offended that community. The rest is history.

    Thanks and wish you a happy 2010…………………….DBSJ

  • 462. Sam  |  January 6th, 2010 at 11:16 am

    was more humane or less brutal

    seriously these pigs who killed hundreds of innocent women and children were looking for a more humane and less brutal division ? isnt that the ultimate irony .

    and yes DBS the Geneva convention is for monkeys as the LTTE would have surely told you . if the SF soldiers killed these **** s more power to them . when a cancer in eliminated every little part of it needs to be taken out . Im proud of the Sri Lankan military for achieving what most pundits including you considered impossible .

    The trick is not to mourn these murderers but to build the country together . Im sure with Chinese and Indian help a new dawn is among us . Work together to develop the emerald isle or perish in the cold I say .

    Premawardena, do you think there can be a new dawn with guys like you/…………..DBSJ

  • 463. Gbs. Ganesan  |  January 6th, 2010 at 12:31 pm

    # 417

    Dear DBSJ

    Let Seeman and countless people can utter filth and we shall ignore. Nedumaran and Vaiko are not really “Political Class” and they just happen to be in politics; nevertheless all are concerned about the welfare of the Tamils and we shall set aside their talks.

    MK & Co are serious about accumulating money and have no intent on the welfare of the Tamils. Rather they wont move their little finger if they don’t get the first respect for every instance. In case of SL Tamils always MGR will be in forefront and so MK&Co shall never be expected to play a sincere role and we are left with Jaya who never distinguished between the LTTE and the Tamils in SL. Chidambaram played his cards well to keep a distance from this issue though waxed eloquently about the concerns of Tamils in SL when put on spot.

    Tamils in SL have to contend only with MR and Fonseka but the numbers here are rather too high! Also the first grade rascals in the India’s Power center ensured the Indian Media is always with them by highlighting LTTE related issues only. You would have read The Hindu and the way it reported. I wrote a strong protest letter when they reported the cash holdings of the people in Vanni camps and I asked them to concentrate on the conditions of the camps. In that letter, I also pointed out per capita holdings of Tamils deposited in the banks opened by the SL Govt amounted only less than USD40/- which is a pittance and almost, many of us would carry a lot more when we go out for shopping and/or visiting relatives in another city, etc. A few days later The Hindu reported about the vanni camps; rather than the words in that reporting N.Ram’s face carried real conditions of the Camps.

    Coming back to my original point, none of our Political leaders have vision and it should come from elsewhere. That elsewhere should be our Unity. Irrespective of our native country origination we should Unite. Our people like V.Anand, Vijay Amirtaraj, Shiv Nadar should condemn these State sponsored killings. We need to start the unity movement NOW.

    There are people in India who think the Tamils of SL are greedy and fighting for a separate state in a different country. These guys don’t understand history or problems of Unitary State like SL. Tamils in India, despite under poor political governance are well off because the Constitution of the State says in unambigous terms that India is SECULAR, Sovereign State.

    There are others who say economic prosperity in the years to come will wipe this problem.

    Problems of a Unitary State like SL is very different that of India and fixing a political problem by economic solution is simply postponing treatment to a wound.

    People call it Eelam War, but I see that as a counter insurgency operation. It took a few hours for Jallian Wallabagh to happen in India during 1919. Our people had been in that situation for so many months. We cannot trust the Political class. We need to pull up our socks. Even if takes 200 years for Tamils to stand united it should be OK. But the move has to begin Now. Please make the move. You have the experience to pull it or know the people who can do that and I shall be proud soldier-general.

  • 464. Sam  |  January 6th, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    [Premawardena, do you think there can be a new dawn with guys like you/]

    yes if you really care for it . dont ask me to mourn the death of these scoundrels and murderers . They deserve every moment of fear and pain they got and if not more .

    but if your attitude is the good of the common people and the development of the north and the east I dont see why we as a people cant work together . I think this is what most people want not political goals and blah balh .

  • 465. Batti-Man  |  January 6th, 2010 at 2:20 pm

    LTTE had done similar killing to people who surrendered during TELO demolish and also in the East after Karuna spited from LTTE.
    In the Vagarai (between Batti and Trico) area, there were more than 100 women cards who surrendered and killed by their own people.
    So, it is payback for them……!!!!

  • 466. nandana  |  January 6th, 2010 at 2:58 pm

    As I am well aware that Special Forces are very disciplined and the best in the army. Their conduct is completely different from ordinary fighting units. They do not get excited and shoot at random. My point is they will not kill surrendering LTTE cadres unless they have been given specific orders or the freedom [certain degree of] to do what they like.

    If they identified Nadesan and Pulidevan I am pretty sure they would not have killed them with out orders from higher authorities, at least from a Brigade commander level.

    My guess is that the SF units were given specific orders not to take any prisoners alive esp. the higher rankers.

    Your”guess”may be correct……………DBSJ

  • 467. Ravi  |  January 6th, 2010 at 4:23 pm

    Dear DBS,

    When are you going to write about what happened to Prabakaran and the rest?

    Some one should bring up the truth. Waiting for yours.

    What’s the point in writing truth about his death when Pro-LTTE Tamils are saying Praba is alive?……………DBSJ

  • 468. Govirala  |  January 6th, 2010 at 5:35 pm

    Comment 465 Battiman,
    I hardly see any comments here about the BATTI Tamils.I am not sure how many Tamils live in the in Batti,Trinco and the other Eastern towns and villages. It could be more than the North. Please correct me if I am wrong.

    I know Eastern Tamils were poor and the Northern Tamils used look down upon then.May be there are not many eastern Tamils in the Diaspora.

    As the Batti man says a lot of Eastern cadres were murdered, including Karuna;s brother Reg.

    I would appreciate if Mr J can put togehter a piece detailing the battle in Vagarai.

    I wrote in detail then.please read………………….DBSJ

  • 469. mahulchandran spencer  |  January 6th, 2010 at 8:38 pm

    Ref 467; What’s the point in writing truth about his death when Pro-LTTE Tamils are saying Praba is alive?……………DBSJ

    Well done DBSJ, once again with the highest number comments though some are repetitive and plain stupid.

    Being the John Pilger for India and SL you owe it to those well meaning and discerning readers to the bring to light the truth as it’s reflected to you through whatever sources that may die with you. Further there will be a great point in confirming with the greater truth around the corner for those diehard LTTE supporters and beneficiaries in the Diaspora in the number of votes that Sivajilingam is going to poll for himself [though at cross purposes to his own wish and quite similar to VP’s boycotting at the last Presidential polls]; and whatever is left of the LTTE wealth seeking, preserving and investing for growth remnants of it.

    This will re-confirm the utter stupidity and foolishness of the Rudrakumar and the so-called Nediyawan followers with their transnational Tamil movement that should by land on the moon with the rest of the other four million odd individuals and companies and call it “Thamil Eelam maranapalathaku” meaning “the valley of death of Tamil Elam”. This may be more realistic in bringing attention to their lost and dead cause or they may watch the great film “Avatar” in 3D and work out how to establish “Tamil Eelam” on another planet with environmental lessons thrown in as well.

    Though TNA and Sampathan’s choice is practical and more realistic in minimizing further loss and damage to the indigenous Tamils of SL who’s true position today is in keeping with that Tamil saying “Pitchai vehendam nahyai pidi” meaning don’t want the alms or charity of Tamil Elam instead hold the dog metaphorically MR. who’s Bro’s & Co and their mindset is identical to that of VP & Co but who could and would continue to cause far greater loss and damage than VP to SL not unlike the generals of Burma or Mugabe of Zimbabwe of current times.

    Another way of looking at it is “mule mullah edukavendum” meaning that a thorn has to removed by another thorn and once removed the thorn that was used to remove should be abandoned otherwise it would cause further pain, infection, damage and destruction to others once its use-by and best before dates have passed with the destruction of the LTTE.

  • 470. Fran  |  January 6th, 2010 at 9:39 pm

    #457
    Mr.Navin, I appreciate your responds to my comment #454.

    Your responds vindicates my point.

    I hope the future will be bright for everyone in SL irregardless of race, religion…etc, secular society built on individual, political, human rights.

  • 471. Jey  |  January 7th, 2010 at 2:37 am

    DBS,
    Thanks for your comments.

    Since I saw you being quoted by UTHR in one of the reports,I thought you were associated with them in one way or another.

    However,even after reading the reports from UTHR,its not clear on what happened to VP \ Soosai and Pottu.However UTHR does indicate that VP was either caught or killed on the failed breakaway attempted on 17th May.Did Soosai and Pottu too perish on the same day?

    GOSL claims to have found the body of VP on 19th May.However on the press release of KP acknowledging VP’s death,he did mention VP died on 17th,if I remember right.

    So what happened in those 2 intervening days?

    I think you have duty to report on what exactly happened to the top brass since you have your sources.Now that almost 7 months have passed since the occurings,the truth has to come out

    Sorry Jey but I am not “Duty bound” to report or write as you put it. I will write only if I “want” to and not because I “have”to…………..DBSJ

  • 472. CT  |  January 7th, 2010 at 2:42 am

    I heard those LTTE need to surrender at night & ARMY rejected the appeal. Infact there is a trap. So LTTE put civilians infront & try to cross the FDL. ( Not to surrender. They want to break the FDL ) And same time ARMY shoots to air for warning. LTTE thought ARMY firing to them & fight started.
    I think this happend in Praba & group side. Because Praba always reject the surrender. Everybody knows SLGOV gave chances to surrendder but Praba rejected.
    I strongly beleive if LTTE surrender at first stage, still Praba , LTTE carders & civiliance still alive.
    So Praba should responsible for those tragedy.
    SL ARMY done their job perfectly. Really sorry for the civiliance.

  • 473. neutral observer  |  January 7th, 2010 at 2:59 am

    SF was a brilliant soldier. I have met him at the big match and spoken to him a couple of times before he became the Chief. He’s humble and appeared to be straight like an arrow.He perfomed his task that was assigned to him truly like a first rate professional. Whether or not he is suited to be the President is another issue. In fact he has all the credentials. But none should tarnish his goodname just because he became a candidate in the race. Circumstances led him to take that decision and others should respect it.Otherwise we’ll not witness the wave of support we are seeing now for him in this country and increasing at a rate that is two folds, hourly.He may not win at the end but deserves to fall short by not much.

  • 474. anuladevi  |  January 7th, 2010 at 5:50 am

    These LTTE guys killed and killed and killed for more than 3 decades. Nadesan and Pulidevan stood by the LTTE leadreship during that time, enjoying the ill gotten riches and fame. I have no pity for the way they died. In a conventional war where soldiers do not on purpose kill civilians, the Geneva conventions should hold. But these LTTE leaders were brutal killers of children and unarmed civilians. Even at the very last stages they killed their own people, not just the SL Army men. I do not have the right to say they deserved to be killed like that, but neither do I feel any pity for them. The only thing that shocks me is the fact that we humans can kill another human in the way that both the LTTE killed the civilians and the army men, and the SL extremists and some army men killed the Tamil civilians and terrorists. Where are we heading?
    I have no faith in the morality or human rights preached by the Western idiots, they preach and yak about it only as long as they are not the perpetrators of such stuff. I would stick a finger to them the next time they try their “hypocrisy” at us.
    But, we need to check ourselves as to why we have become so violent and so ready to embrace violence as a way of getting what we need or want. History is replete with instances where each such violent uprising came to a violent and fruitless halt, and how the non-violent struggles of a few who took that path led to victory and achievement of goals. With all that past to guide us we still crave violent ways, dream of creating more violent nightmares for future generations. I wish that extremism will vanish from both sides, Tamil and Sinhala. However, given my experience of human nature, it is perhaps too much to wish for at this stage :-(

  • 475. kapila  |  January 7th, 2010 at 6:30 am

    466 Nandana

    This whole thing took place in the early morning in the thick jungle while it was raining. Bullets were flying everywhere. If anything moved in the bush that was shot.
    So, given this scenario Nadesan & co came with little pieces of white clothes stuck in sticks, and in the back was none other than Ramesh with weapons. While the STF was trying to establish the identity of them, somebody from behind started shooting and couple of STF were injured making all hell break loose. So what do you expect the STF to do ?. Be a sitting duck and get shot and killed ?

    Your insinuation that the order came from a higher authority is wrong Nandana. Do you think these guys don’t know about war crimes.?.

  • 476. Jey  |  January 7th, 2010 at 8:33 am

    DBSJ,

    Maybe I didnt word it correctly when I said,you have a duty to write on the final moments of the top brass.

    I agree with your comments on that.

    Hope someday you will update your pages with what happened then and I will keep visiting this site waiting for that article

  • 477. Ravi  |  January 7th, 2010 at 10:13 am

    #467

    Dear DBSJ,

    It’s not that some people do believe he is alive or not, but we need the truth out. If we look at the history, we still do not know what really happened to Hitler, Chandrabose.

    I believe you write these reports (or articles) with some sort of evidence. So we would assume that there is some truth in your wrirings.

    Forget about Viko, Nedumaran or Seeman. Those guys still believe he is alive and miss leading the people for their own politics. But we need to know the truth.

    Please write for us.

  • 478. T kumaralingam  |  January 7th, 2010 at 11:01 am

    VP made mistakes but never betrayed the Tamils aspiration as per Vaddukoddai decleration.
    It is easy to comment from the comfort of the office.
    It is because of VP,now 40% of the population of THAMILEELAM are enjoying a wealthy life, which less than 5% enjoyed before the independance struggle.
    Five times more Tamil students are graduating from the universities ever year,than before the struggle.
    Sacrifices are the norm of any independant struggle.

  • 479. Dhammika  |  January 7th, 2010 at 6:23 pm

    My heart still bleeds for Sri Lanka,
    Sri Lanka the land of my birth;
    Sweet pearl of the Indian Ocean
    The most beautiful country on earth

    Why oh why Mother Lanka
    Are we killing each other with hate,
    When we lived in peace through the ages,
    Till some curse brought down this fate?

    We suffered invasions from foreign lands
    But we stood together as one,
    Now divisions have come within us,
    And we’re fighting our own loved ones.

    May we all unite as Sri Lankans,
    Casting race and creed aside,
    We’re all blood brothers and sisters,
    Though now strewn far and wide.

    I weep for the slaughtered innocent
    I weep for the rebels too,
    They all belong to my family,
    And I love them all, yes I do.

    by Swarna Jayasinghe
    (1938-2002)

  • 480. Mahesh  |  January 7th, 2010 at 9:27 pm

    430. citizensl

    Keep posting like this friend and you will be advocating the cause of the LTTE. Jayawewa.

  • 481. Mahulchandran spencer  |  January 7th, 2010 at 11:05 pm

    Hi DBS,

    1. Further to my previous post, I have a minor thought experiment for you and the other readers. Expanding, suppose the present reality was opposite to what the actual reality is where the LTTE had triumphed and the GOSL and its armed forces routed.

    2. What sense of security, assurance or gurantee of person, mental state, life limb and/or property is there for the rest of the vast greater majority of Tamils living outside of the so-called NE SL or Ceylon Eelam?

    3. Mohamed Ali Jina wanted got Pakistan for greater security and prosperity for the Muslims of India and what do we have now. More Muslims living in India than in Pakistan and is there and is there any greater security in the light of the recent and past happenings in post independence India and Pakistan?

    4. The again what’s happening in Eritrea today? Where Anton Balsingham’s half baked political science study of the Eritrean evolutionary experience of reducing 33 odd military groups to 3 or 4 over a period of 31 years was compressed and revolutionized into approximately five years in killing the fellow Tamil independence struggle armed movements?

    5. There is much information in the decades old book “Tamils of SriLankan” co-authored by about seven people in the know to the back ground of the rise and fall of LTTE not unlike that of the rise and fall of the 3rd Reich.

    6. Antecedent and preceding causes of several decades if not centuries contributed to the mayhem and destruction in the above. Yet its one side benefit can be summed up in the words of General Goring that whatever the outcome and present situation he stated “We had twelve years of decent life” as I recently observed and noted from a war documentary in the History channel. The same could be said of VP, PA, Nadesan, Pulidevan, their heirs, families, clans, and kith and kin and sub-regional VVT and other TN allies.

  • 482. T Raman  |  January 7th, 2010 at 11:12 pm

    Dear Mr Jeyaraj,

    As someone who regularly visits your website and enjoys your unbiased and carefully researched writing, I would like t