Colombo - Security forces in Sri Lanka have resumed military operations in the north-eastern part of the country, ending a 48-hour suspension of military operations to mark traditional New Year celebrations, a military spokesman said. The spokesman said the military will go ahead with operations aimed at rescuing some 50,000 civilians who remain trapped in Mullativu district, 395 kilometres north-east of the capital.

Tamil rebels of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) retain control of an area less than 20 square kilometres where the civilians are held.

During the 48-hour period in which the military suspended offensive operations at least one soldier was killed by sniper fire by the rebels and three others were injured.

But Tamil rebels claimed security forces had carried out attacks during the period, a claim denied by the army.

Tamil rebels called for a permanent truce Tuesday, but the Sri Lankan government has not accepted the offer. (dpa)