A Life Shaped by Resilience
Kagusthan Ariaratnam was born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, and has lived a life marked by extraordinary challenges and resilience. At just 17, he was abducted by the Tamil Tigers and thrust into the harrowing world of child soldiers.
Living through one of the 20 th century’s most brutal conflicts, Kagusthan quickly rose within the ranks of the Tamil Tigers as an intelligence operative before becoming a double agent and counterinsurgency analyst. His unique experiences give him unparalleled insight into the complexities of terrorism, war, and the strength of the human spirit.

Bridging Divides Through Writing
Kagusthan’s foray into writing stems from a deep desire to shed light on the untold stories of the Tamil Tigers and the struggles of the marginalized Tamil population. With firsthand experiences in battlefield operations, intelligence work, and counterterrorism, his narrative offers rare authenticity and depth. He seeks to bridge divides between the Tamil and Sinhalese communities through his writing, advocating for peace, understanding, and reconciliation.
A Powerful Debut
In his debut book, The 05 File, Kagusthan shares a gripping account of his life within the Tamil Tigers’ intelligence wing, revealing covert operations that have shaped global terrorism tactics. This powerful memoir is more than a recounting of history—it calls for peace and explores the socio-political forces driving conflict.
A Collaborative Effort
Joining Kagusthan on this journey is Michael Bramadat-Willcock, an award-winning Canadian journalist. Michael brings his expertise in covering complex issues from India to Canada, with work featured in leading outlets such as The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, CBC, and Le Devoir. His insightful perspective amplifies the book’s impact, blending personal experiences with global significance.