From correspondents in Europe, 11:15 PM IST

The Hague, May 8 (DPA) The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is using intimidation tactics to raise funds in the Netherlands, two cabinet members said Monday in written response to a parliamentary question.

Justice Minister Piet Hein Donner and Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk referred to 'certain indications that fundraising with an intimidatory character' was taking place within the Sri Lankan community in the Netherlands.

The letters, responding to a question from Green-Left member Marijke Vos, said that thus far no formal complaints had been made to the authorities.

Vos posed the question following a report from the New York-based organisation Human Rights Watch to the effect that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have been extorting funds from the Tamil community in exile in the West.

The LTTE has stepped up attacks on Sri Lankan security forces since April 9.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)