An SLAF Bell 212 Helicopter from No 7  Squadron, SLAF Hingurakgoda was dispatched at approximately 1335 this afternoon in response to a request from AFHQ from the Police who were carrying out a search operation in the Knuckles range to locate a Female Tourist who had been reported missing.  Having picked up a one Policeman the helicopter proceeded to carry out reconnaissance of the area for about 30 minutes.  One of the Regiment Special Forces personnel on board the helicopter observed what appeared to be an item of clothing in the area after which the Captain orbited the area for confirmation of identification.  Due to the prevailing winds at the time, the helicopter was unable to carry out a winch operation for the rescue and the helicopter returned to its previous landing location to proceed to the location on foot.  

One Air Gunner and One Regiment Special Forces person proceeded to the location on foot. On arrival they learnt that the victim had been found and that she had been transported by road for medical attention.  The Helicopter returned to SLAF Base Minneriya.