The Special Task Force set up by the President to provide relief for the displaced in the Muthur area as a result of the security forces action on 25th April completed its assessment of the immediate relief requirements as well as future rehabilitation tasks.

At a Meeting on 1st May 2006 chaired by the Governor North East Province Rear Admiral Mohan Wijewickrema and comprising the other members of the Task Force, the North East Provincial administration and DIG, Eastern Province, the following information was finalized and relief measures agreed:

(a) Total of 16 deaths in the Sampoor (uncleared) area. It was decided to provide the funeral expenses to the next of kin of all identified bodies. Further the G.A was asked to expedite payment of compensation by 1st of June after necessary formalities. The importance of speedy settlement was emphasized.

(b) Names of persons injured were finalised with the type of injury they had sustained. There were injuries to 10 from the un-cleared areas. DPHS,NEP was instructed to transfer any patient in the un-cleared area requiring better treatment to Trincomalee or Muthur hospitals.

(c) 53 houses had been damaged out which 6 are fully damaged, 26 partially damaged and 21 had sustained minor damage. The G.A was instructed to pursue the request for compensation for payment urgently.

(d) 5 shops had been partially damaged in the un-cleared area. G.A was instructed to estimate through a sub-committee and provide compensation.

(e) Damages had been reported to public buildings comprising two schools, and a health centre. These will be restored in due course by the NEPC under a rehabilitation project and will be pursued by the Chief Secretary of NEPC.

(f) The D.S Muthur indicated that in spite of a halt in attacks by the security forces, a large number remain displaced due to fear. It was decided to provide one weeks ration to all people in un-cleared area. In case additional rations are needed for further periods, D.S must bring this to the attention of the TASK FORCE giving reasons. D.S must persuade and ensure displaced families return to their homes and continue provision rations only to ones whose homes were damaged or to families who had suffered deaths/casualties or lost there livelihood. until such time they are stabilized. Normal formalities are to be followed for the purpose of accounting.

The Special Task Force is now expected to launch its rehabilitation efforts parallel to on-going relief assistance.