Military Releases Nearly Seven Acres in Mullaitivu District

The military has relinquished control of the Keppapilavu property to the Divisional Secretary of Maritimepattu Division, marking another step in the gradual return of security force-occupied land to civilian use. The handover was executed on directive from the Defence Ministry, which oversees the military's property portfolio across the island. The 6.97-acre parcel in Mullaitivu District, located in the Northern Province, has now transferred to civil administration for development or other civilian purposes. The Defence Ministry stated that the release of military-held land forms part of the government's broader policy framework aimed at reducing the security forces' footprint in civilian areas. However, the ministry emphasized that land deemed critical for essential national security operations will continue to remain under military control. The return of such properties has been an ongoing process as authorities work to balance security requirements with civilian land access in post-conflict regions. Local officials in the Maritimepattu Division are expected to determine future use of the newly released land in consultation with relevant government agencies.