4.3.2008

SLA troops attacked and overran five heavily fortified LTTE strong points in a fresh offensive advance this morning (March 4) at Munkilmurichchan, south of Adampan, Mannar.

Troops surged into the non-liberated area ahead of LTTE defences at around 4a.m., security sources said. According to latest reports received through interpreted LTTE communication, 12 terrorists were believed killed and many wounded, ground sources said. Military sources citing ground troops further said that, many LTTE bodies were observed scattered in the area following the confrontation.

Three LTTE bodies were also recovered during subsequent search operations conducted, sources said.

A soldier has laid his life during the confrontation with LTTE, military sources report.

According to military reports, troops are now consolidating defences in the newly captured LTTE bunker lines.

Meantime, today (4) at around 6a.m., in general area south of Karukkakulama in Mannar, troops attacked and overran an LTTE 'cross loading point' forcing terrorists to retreat with heavy losses, security sources reveal.

This was a well secured LTTE strong point mainly used to extort money from civilians proceeding through the Uyilankulama entry exit point, sources further said.

Karukkakulama is located North East of Uyilankulama in Mannar district.

Search operations are underway in the area. More information will follow.

Courtesy - Sri Lanka Defence