SLA troops deployed ahead of the recently liberated Palampiddi area, Vavuniya have totally neutralized an LTTE offensive attempt to open -up the military defences in a heavy gun attack mounted from non-liberated areas on Monday (May 19).

LTTE offensive elements were forced to withdraw with soaring casualties during what was said as 'sustained heavy retaliation' by security forces, Wanni defence sources report. At least a dozen terrorists were killed and 21 others injured during the counter terrorist operations launched since yesterday morning at around 5, at the Wanni battle fronts.

According to military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara, 7 terrorists were reported killed in confrontations ensued with troops in Periyamadu, Palamipiddi and Mullikulama general areas, while 5 others were also said killed during fighting in Welioya defences. At the Welioya front, confrontations with LTTE were reported from general areas Janakapura, Andankulama and Kokkuthuduwal, the sources further said. 21 terrorists were wounded during the fighting on Monday, MCNS reported.

Meanwhile, 3 soldiers have also laid their lives in addition to 8 battle casualties, sources further added.