Description
Founded in 1976, the LTTE is the most powerful Tamil group in Sri Lanka and uses
overt and illegal methods to raise funds, acquire weapons, and publicize its
cause of establishing an independent Tamil state. The LTTE began its armed
conflict with the Sri Lankan Government in 1983 and has relied on a guerrilla
strategy that includes the use of terrorist tactics. The LTTE is currently
observing a cease-fire agreement with the Sri Lankan Government and is engaged
in peace talks.
Activities
The Tigers have integrated a battlefield insurgent strategy with a terrorist
program that targets not only key personnel in the countryside but also senior
Sri Lankan political and military leaders in Colombo and other urban centers.
The Tigers are most notorious for their cadre of suicide bombers, the Black
Tigers. Political assassinations and bombings are commonplace. The LTTE has
refrained from targeting foreign diplomatic and commercial establishments.
Strength
Exact strength is unknown, but the LTTE is estimated to have 8,000 to 10,000
armed combatants in Sri Lanka, with a core of trained fighters of approximately
3,000 to 6,000. The LTTE also has a significant overseas support structure for
fundraising, weapons procurement, and propaganda activities.
Location/Area of Operation
The Tigers control most of the northern and eastern coastal areas of Sri Lanka
but have conducted operations throughout the island. Headquartered in northern
Sri Lanka, LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran has established an extensive
network of checkpoints and informants to keep track of any outsiders who enter
the group's area of control.
External Aid
The LTTE’s overt organizations support Tamil separatism by lobbying foreign
governments and the United Nations. The LTTE also uses its international
contacts to procure weapons, communications, and any other equipment and
supplies it needs. The LTTE exploits large Tamil communities in North America,
Europe, and Asia to obtain funds and supplies for its fighters in Sri Lanka.