LTTE fires SAMs

Choppers dodge missiles:

Rafik JALALDEEN

The LTTE fired two Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM) at two Air Force Bell- 212 helicopters engaged in casualty evacuation operations in Puthukudiyirippu yesterday morning.

Air Force Spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said while two helicopters engaged in the evacuation of wounded soldiers had come under LTTE anti aircraft missiles around 11.00am

The Tigers launched the missiles from inside the No Fire Zone. The pilots, however, have managed to evacuate the injured soldiers safely with evasive air maneuvers evading the missile.

“The No Fire Zone was declared by the Government for the safety of displaced civilians. It is a violation of No Fire Zone, the LTTE cadres are taking cover from civilians to carry out their terror activity,” Wing Commander Nanayakkara told the Daily News.

Both helicopters successfully carried out their missions without any hindrance.