Fresh conflicts among SLDF top brass?

(January 08, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) News has just emerged of a major conflict brewing between the top brass of the Sri Lankan defence establishment. The conflict has reached epic proportions so much so that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDF) Air Chief Marshall Donald Perera was not able to defuse the tension. The CDF was forced to request the GOSL President and the Defence Secretary to step in to mediate the conflict. Sources indicate that the rift set off when the commander of the SLA – Sarath Fonseka accused the SLN commander - Wasantha Karannagoda of being accountable for the deaths of SLA infantrymen from LTTE mortar and artillery fire. The army commander is said to hold the Navy commander responsible for the failure of the SLN in blocking arms shipments to the LTTE.

It is a well known fact that the LTTE received a heavy load of ammunition over the past few weeks through the eastern LTTE controlled sea belt. Reports indicate that the rift is still ongoing with neither the CDF nor the brother duo being able to mediate the conflict. The SLA commander is not in speaking terms with the SLN commander and has not mentioned the contribution of the SLN (or lack of) in recent propaganda speeches and during interviews given to the media.

Meanwhile the SLA is reported to be taking its time in occupying EPS as the area is heavily mined and booby trapped. Clearing operations are underway however these are being slowed down as the SLA fears LTTE snipers who are stationed in Pallai. There is also ample proof that most (bar three) of the LTTE cadres withdrew safely from EPS as the GOSL propaganda outlets are confirming only three LTTE deaths.

According to the source close to the LTTE, "The GOSL has once again attacked the free media in Sri Lanka. Government backed thugs have set fire to the independent MTV/MBC complex in Depanama. RSF and media activists in Sri Lanka have condemned the attack and demanded that the GOSL conduct an independent probe." (Jan-07) - Sri Lanka Guardian