18.8.2008

Security Forces operating at the Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu battlefronts continued pushing into LTTE defences as military claimed at least 21 LTTE terrorists killed and 31 wounded in yesterday's (August 17) clashes.

Heavy confrontations between troops and LTTE were reported at the Vavuniya - Mullaittivu front in general areas at Thunukkai, Uyilankulama and Palaimoddai, according to finalized military reports. 9 LTTE terrorists were killed and 13 wounded in the clashes, in addition to 8 Army fatalities and 2 missing in actions . According to reports, 4 soldiers were killed when troops confronted with a group of terrorists North of Thnukkai at 10 PM, on Sunday.

Also, 7 LTTE terrorists were killed and 9 wounded during separate confrontations at general area Palaimoddai, according to the reports. Meanwhile, troops have uncovered 20 anti-personnel mines (AP) and 3 hand grenades at the same area during a subsequent search operation conducted. Separately, 10 other hand grenades and a claymore mine weighing 7.5 Kg were also recovered by troops at Palaimioddai at around 3 PM.

Meanwhile, troops of the 58 Division operating at the Mannar - Kilinochchi front forced into an LTTE bunker line capturing 3 bunkers in general area Nachchikudda, reportedly killing 6 LTTE terrorist and injuring 13 others. 2 soldiers have laid their lives and 11 others wounded in the confrontation. Also, troops while conducting a search operation in general area Kariyalaimoddai recovered 41 AP mines and 5 booby traps laid by LTTE. A soldier was also reported wounded due to an AP mine explosion in general area Mundampiddi, at around 10.10 AM.

Meanwhile, heavy fighting continued between troops and LTTE at the Welioya battlefront as military claimed killing 4 LTTE terrorists and injuring 5 others. 14 terrorists were also believed to be either killed or wounded during these clashes.