Security Forces continued ground battles with LTTE on Wednesday (April16) left at least 16 terrorists dead, 65 injured in the Wanni and Northern fronts, according to security sources.

In addition, an Army soldier was reported killed and 25 others injured during the confrontations with LTTE yesterday, MCNS sources said. On the Jaffna front at Muhamalai general area an LTTE terrorist was reported killed and 6 others wounded, while military reports stated that a soldier had also received injuries.

4 other terrorists were also killed and 3 wounded during confrontations in general areas Mantotam, Adampan and Mediyamurippu, at the Mannar front according to security sources. Meanwhile, military said that 2 soldiers were also wounded in skirmishes with LTTE in Mannar.

Separately, 6 LTTE were reported killed and 9 wounded when troops confronted with terrorists ahead of LTTE defences in Palampiddi, Anandakulama, Puliyankulama and Vinayagakulama general areas at the Vavuniya front. An Army soldier was reported killed and 8 wounded during advances made in the area, yesterday.

Meanwhile, in the Welioya front 5 LTTE were killed and at least 47 confirmed injured during heavy fighting ensued between troops and LTTE on Wednesday, according to security sources. According to reports received 9 soldiers were also wounded in separate confrontations in general areas at Janakapura and Kiriibbanwewa, security sources said.

Meanwhile, Kalpitiya Police apprehended a large consignment of gelignite explosive sticks at a Police roadblock in Thethawadiya yesterday (16). According to Police sources, 99450 gelignite explosive sticks were found along with 35ft long 7 detonator codes. Two suspects, driver and assistant were immediately arrested with the lorry while investigations continue, Kalpitiya Police sources said.