In the Jaffna front at least 7 terrorists were reported killed in clashes erupted between troops and LTTE at Nagarkovil, Kilaly and Muhamalai ahead of LTTE defences. 3 were reported killed alone in a head-on encounter with SLA in general area Nagarkovil at 10a.m, sources said. A LTTE bunker was also said destroyed in general area Kilaly during a SLA mortar attack at 5.30a.m.

Heavy fighting broke out since Thursday (26) as the torrential rains eased away improving ground conditions for SLA fighting units to mobilise deeper into LTTE defences in multi-battle fronts from Mannar, Vavuniya and Welioya.

Meanwhile, SLAF fighter jets made low diving sorties yesterday destroying an LTTE explosive dump at Udayarkattukulama, East of Iaranamadu Tank. The LTTE is yet to reveal losses as pilots have confirmed the the target was acquired precisely.

The LTTE continued to suffer at the hands of security forces in the Wanni as MCNS reported 6 terrorists killed in clashes at Mannar and Welioya fronts. According to security sources, 5 were killed during intense fighting with troops in general area East of Vilathikulama, at 9.15a.m. 2 soldiers were also reported wounded in a confrontation with LTTE at general area West of Madhu.

Troops have also recovered a slain LTTE body and a T-56 assault riffle in a search operation conducted in general area Kiriibbanwewa, Welioya following a confrontation with LTTE at 2.30p.m.

No damages were caused to own troops during the confrontation, sources said.

Overwhelmed by the ferocity of the military assault the LTTE are withdrawing in total disarray, a defence official was quoted saying.

The troops have also recovered a T-56 assault riffle, 2 hand grenades, a T-56 magazine and ammunitions along with 01x solar panel and an electrical charger in general area Iramatiyankulama, Vavuniya, MCNS reported.

Faced with serious logistic problems the LTTE has been making desperate efforts to resist the military advances deploying 'Imranpandyan' and 'Radha' cadres along the Wanni terrain as this front has turned out to be one of the sensitive battlegrounds for them, defence sources state.

Courtesy - Sri Lanka Defence