Officials say many refugees from Vakarai have already been resettled

Over 14,000 IDPs were placed in different camps in Batticaloa district as violence escalated in Vakarai in January.

Nearly 4000 families from 40 villages were forced to leave their homes security forced advanced against the Tamil Tigers.

The IDPs say they are very happy to return as life in the camps has been very difficult.

We are very happy to go back. Our relatives have already gone back. We have no facilities, no jobs here. Everything is difficult A woman refugee

"We are very happy to go back. Our relatives have already gone back. We have no facilities, no jobs here. Everything is difficult," a refugee woman told BBC Sandeshaya.

"But it is also a bit sad. I noticed there is nothing left in my home. No pots or furniture. Everything was stolen," she added.

Sri Lanka security forces captured Vakarai from Tamil Tigers on 19 January.

Officials said the phase one of the resettlement programme was completed on Tuesday.

11,542 IDPs (3361 families) from 22 villages have already been resettled, according to the local officials.

The refugees were hopeful that the life could be soon rebuilt as fishing season arrives.