11 Tamil refugees arrive from Lanka

Rameswaram, Feb 15 (UNI) Eleven Sri Lankan Tamil refugees, including four children arrived at Kunthukal Sea shore here today in view of the fierce fighting between the Lankan Army and LTTE.

Official sources said the refugees, comprising four families hailing from Vavuniya and Thalaimannar in the Island nation hired a boat clandestinely and paid Rs 50,000 each to reach Indian shores.

The refugees disclosed that due to heavy fighting, there was severe shortage of essential commodities in the Tamil dominated areas. One kg of rice was being sold at Rs 80. ''We will work even as coolie labourers to save our children and live in peace in Tamil Nadu'', they said.

Immediately after their arrival, they were interrogated by intelligence officials. Later, they were accommodated at the Mandapam Refugee Camp.

UNI GSM VV SB GC2044