Saturday, December 24 2005 14:52 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Colombo: The Sri Lankan Government condemned the Tamil Tiger rebels for their alleged ambush of a navy convoy, calling the attack an impediment to peace efforts.

"These pre-planned and inhuman attacks are an impediment to the Government's efforts to achieve peace," a Government statement said.

"The Government vehemently condemns this act," it said

But Tamil Tiger rebels denied any role in the attack.

"The Liberation Tigers never got involved in any activity that breaches the cease-fire agreement," rebel spokesman Daya Master told The Associated Press by telephone from the rebel stronghold of Kilinochchi.

"There is no connection whatsoever between us and this attack."