Security cover to check LTTE infiltration

Madurai, Dec 28: The Navy and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) have thrown a security blanket over the Indian territorial waters to prevent infiltration of the outlawed Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ultras in the wake of intense fighting between the Sri Lankan army and the militant group.

A spokesperson of the ICG Station, Mandapam, today told to the sources over phone that based on intelligence reports, the militants might sneak into Tamil Nadu for procurement of medicines and explosive materials, the ICG and Navy had geared up all defence mechanisms along the South-Eastern coast.

He said considering Ramanathapuram's proximity to Sri Lanka, inshore and onshore coastal security had been tightened. ICG stations at Mandapam in Ramanathapuram district and Tuticorin have been asked to undertake round-the-clock vigil.

Apart from the routine operations, air and coastal surveillance have been intensified and the movement of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees was closely monitored to prevent intrusions. Fishermen have been advised not to cross the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in view of the war-like situation in the island nation, he added.

He said ICG had stationed two ships, interceptor crafts and hovercrafts along the IMBL to prevent illegal ferry service to Sri Lanka and smuggling activities, besides infiltration of extremists.

UNI