1996 Mullaitivu debacle, missing persons, and accountability

JULY marks 29 years since the fall of the Mullaitivu garrison in 1996, one of the most devastating military defeats in Sri Lanka’s modern history.

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Over 1,400 personnel, including members of the Sri Lankan Army, Navy, police, and civilian administrative staff, were stationed at this isolated military compound on the eastern coast. The LTTE launched a well-coordinated and brutal assault, overrunning the base in a matter of days. For the first time, the LTTE succeeded in capturing a major military installation—a grim milestone after previous near-successes at Elephant Pass in 1991 and Pooneryn in 1993.

A relief effort mounted by some of Sri Lanka's most elite military units, including members of the Special Forces and Commando Regiment, was met with fierce resistance. After nearly two weeks of intense fighting, the mission was aborted. Among those killed were some of the nation’s most capable and dedicated soldiers. What followed was confusion, denial, and a disturbing lack of transparency.