COLOMBO, March 1 (Xinhuanet) -- The Sri Lankan government has appointed a presidential probe committee to inquire into recent attacks against the Tamil Tiger rebels and escalation of violence in the east, a statement from the president's office said Tuesday.

    Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga's office said the president has appointed a two-member committee to look into escalation of violence and attacks against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

    It said the probe would look at any possible operation of terrorist groups or other elements carrying out attacks in the east.

    In February the LTTE's eastern province political leader E Kousalyan was murdered in ambush.

    The Tigers were quick to blame it on a paramilitary group working alongside government troops.

    On Monday at least three top women rebels of the LTTE came under another ambush, causing grievous injuries including political women's cadre Kuweni.

    Defense sources said that the injured Kuweni was airlifted by courtesy of the government Tuesday evening to the capital Colombo for treatment.

    Violence escalated in the east since March last year when the LTTE's then eastern commander Karuna broke ranks with the rebels.

    The LTTE has accused the government troops of conniving with Karuna in carrying out attacks against them.

    Tuesday's decision by Kumaratunga to appoint a probe committee was the first response to such concerns expressed by the Tigers. Enditem