Forces recover weapons cache

Rafik JALALDEEN

Security Forces advancing further into the No Fire Zone after confining the LTTE a mere 4.5sq kms have engaged small pockets of LTTE cadres and recovered a weapons cache and a large quantity of kerosene in the Vellaimullivaikkal area on Tuesday.

Troops recovered 30 padlocks, eight 60mm mortars, three Arul bombs, four T56 magazines, a map of Mullaitivu, nine claymore mines, 15 empty kerosene barrels, a T56 ammunition box, two FNC ammunition boxes, eight T56 assault riffles, an out board mortar (9HP), 53 hand grenades, 47 nail boxes and 150 steel wire rolls.

Military spok-esman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said troops of the 58 Division confronting the LTTE cadres North of Vellaimullivaikkal inflicted severe damage to the Tiger cadres on Tuesday evening.

The Task Force II engaged in search operations in Puthukudiyiruppu have recovered 13,440 litres of kerosene contained in 64 barrels.

Meanwhile, troops of the 57 Division conducting search and clearing operations uncovered a cache of arms in the Puthukudiyiruppu area on Tuesday.