The iron grip of terrorism that suppressed Tamil civilians in Wanni for decades is fast loosening and civilians have now started escaping the terror clutches in large numbers, defence.lk special correspondent in Vavuniya reveals.

39 civilians in two groups have arrived at the Omanthai roadblock seeking protection with armed forces this morning (Nov 21). The first group comprising 15 males and 10 females arrived at the roadblock at 7.50 AM. The refugees told the officials that they were from Puthukulam and Semaduwa areas. The second group has arrived at 10.30 AM with 7 males and 7 females. They have informed the officials that they were from Plaiwadi, Sinna Adampan and Nainamadu areas.

According to our correspondent, the group of refugees has 2 children below 12 years of age, and 18 youths below 30 years. All of them have stated that they had been forcibly engaged in military fatigue by the terrorists.

One of the youth who introduced himself from Naninamaduwa told our correspondent that the Army's capture of Mankulam has severely weakened the LTTE's ability to restrain civilian movements.

"We are tired of them (LTTE), they have destroyed everything we had. Soon the people (Wanni civilians) will beat them (LTTE) and come to the South", he said.

Asked whether LTTE would allow the civilians to escape their grip, the youth said that even LTTE cadres are anxious to dessert the outfit.

"Now, Army has come to Mankulam, they (LTTE) can't control people any more, they (people) will soon come out, even large number of LTTE cadres themselves want to come out" he said.

Meanwhile, the refugees were astonished to hear that some of the Tamil Nadu politicians want the government to stop the on going humanitarian operations.

"What do they care about Sri Lankan Tamils? What do they really want .. do they want us to suffer for another 30 years just to satisfy their whims" an elderly civilian told our correspondent.

The civilians have been provided with food and medicine by the officials and they would be directed to the civilian welfare centres soon, our correspondent told citing military officials.