Forces within reach of LTTE�s last stronghold
Rafik Jalaldeen
Security Forces in the last phase of the battle to fully liberate
Mullaitivu from the LTTE have reached closer to the Tigers� last
stronghold Puthukudiyiruppu town and regained a section of the LTTE
earthbund in Kombavil.
Military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said as troops
encircled the Puthukudiyiruppu town from all directions, troops of the
58 division thrusting into the general area northwest of
Puthukkudiyirippu had taken control over part of the LTTE built
earthbund at Kombavil on Sunday. �Following a fierce battle troops
recovered three LTTE bodies and two T-56 assault rifles from the scene,�
he added.
Brigadier Nanayakkara said advancing infantrymen attached to the 58
division launched intensive fire amidst stiff resistance by the Tigers.
�Troops successfully repulsed LTTE resistance and progressed further
into the LTTE defence line�, he said.
He said that the LTTE cadres had built an earthbund from North to
South fortifying the Iranapali area, which is considered a key LTTE
foothold in northeast Puthukkudiyirippu, the sources said.
According to military sources the Security Forces have now encircled
Puthyukkudiryirippu town from all directions and positioned themselves
within 400m striking distance. Troops of the 58 division and Task Force
VIII are now leading the two main offensive fronts to the last LTTE
stronghold in Mullaitivu.
LTTE�s fast shrinking territory in Mullaitivu jungles are now
confined to a mere 73 square KM. |
