The National Freedom Front led by JVP dissident MP Wimal Weerawansa had formed an organization to assist civilians who are fleeing from Wanni to government controlled areas. It commenced operations from yesterday (8) and they requested the general public of south to donate essential items.

Addressing a media conference at NFF headquarters Battaramulla on Sunday MP Weerawansa said that the government forces, engaged in the final battle to capture the entire Northern Province, were about to complete the offensive. The Air Force recently air-dropped leaflets on Kilinochchi, advising its civilians to move to government controlled areas. But the LTTE wants to use them as a human shield.

"We have to encourage civilians in LTTE held areas to shift here. They are our fellow citizens not enemies. Because of that we formed an organization to assist them. We expect to provide food, clothes, health facilities and children’s needs," Weerawansa said.

He said that at the time when tsunami struck the country, massive donations were made by people for the tsunami affected communities. The people should think like that and come forward and made donations for people under the jackboot of Tiger terrorism. The NFF is ready to send the donations for IDP camps through the Army.

Weerawansa said that they would establish centres in every electorate for collection of the donations. MP Mohamed Mussammil would be the coordinator of donations and could be contacted by 060 2071340 and 011 2882176 and at NFF headquarters, 21/1, Asoka Mawatha, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla.

He said that he requested President Mahinda Rajapaksa to appoint a committee comprising the members of the parliament to assist IDPs. He expected action soon.

Military Spokesman Brig. Udaya Nanayakkara when contacted by The Island said that about 813 civilians have come so far from the LTTE controlled areas since January and are accommodated at temporary shelters in Mannar.