At least 33 LTTE terrorists were killed, over 40 wounded in heavy fighting ensued between troops and LTTE since this morning (May 9) in general area Alankulama, North of Giants Tank- Mannar, Wanni military sources said.

Intense battles were reported as SLA infantry and armour units backed by close SLAF air support forced into the LTTE stronghold during a multi-pronged offensive launched at around 6a.m. According to initial reports received, 3 soldiers have laid their lives in addition to 5 others who were wounded in the confrontations.

Military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said that 5 soldiers were reported missing since they have failed to marry-up with the advancing troops.

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets carried out two separate air sorties targeting LTTE strongholds in Mannar front on the Wanni theatre of battle today, May 09. Air Force spokesperson Wing Commander Andrew Wijesooriya speaking exclusively to defence.lk said that, these air raids were launched in support of army advances in the Mannar front.

According to the air force sources, SLAF MI-24 helicopter gun ships raided terror strongholds in general area north of Alankulam around 1.15 pm.

Meanwhile, this morning, SLAF fighter gets carried out air sorties targeting an LTTE gathering in general area Parappakadaththan. An LTTE operation controlling room was also targeted in the air raid launched around 10.15 p.m.