Cabinet officials have rejected circulating social media reports alleging an LTTE training camp operates in a forest reserve in Kilinochchi District, characterizing the situation instead as unauthorized land occupation and illegal construction.
The government has firmly denied allegations that a terrorist training facility is being operated at a forest reserve in the Kilinochchi District, with Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stating that social media claims are fabricated. According to Jayatissa, the actual issue involves unauthorized clearing and construction on state-owned forest land that was officially gazetted as a reserve in 1919.
The site in question, located in the Kannagipuram and Mukkanpam areas, has been subject to ongoing legal disputes. An individual identified as Thyagarasa Kuladeepan allegedly cleared approximately 10 acres of the reserve initially, later expanding the operation to around 20 acres for cultivation of aloe vera and vegetables. A multi-storey building has been constructed on the site, reportedly housing an apparel manufacturing facility that employs local residents. Sources differ on the building's size, with one account noting it was originally three storeys while another indicates it now has four floors.
Legal proceedings have been initiated against the individual, with seven cases filed in connection with the unauthorized activities. The Kilinochchi Magistrate's Court issued an order in February 2026 directing the individual to vacate the land, though compliance with this order remains unclear. Additionally, authorities have filed separate charges related to sand mining operations conducted using heavy machinery at the location. In July 2026, the individual and eight others were arrested for allegedly obstructing Forest Department officials, with bail subsequently granted.
Jayatissa emphasized that the allegations should be viewed as a matter of illegal land occupation and unauthorized construction rather than security concerns. He announced that legal action would be taken against those responsible for spreading false reports about an LTTE training camp. The minister noted that similar cases of illegal activity on state property occur across the country.
