SLA overruns LTTE bunker defences: 22 terrorists killed - Mannar

At least 22 terrorists were killed yesterday( January14) in sporadic clashes erupted between SLA and LTTE, North West of Parappakandal at the Mannar defences, security sources said. Clashes occurred as troops forced into LTTE territory in a multi-pronged offensive using heavy artillery, mortars and multi-barrel rocket fire.

SLAF fighter jets made few offensive sorties dropping heavy payloads at identified LTTE artillery batteries, assisting the advancing ground troops, Wanni sources report. During the air strikes an LTTE 122mm artillery gun was reported damaged, while a senior LTTE leader identified as Magalesh was also believed injured, military said citing intercepted enemy communication.

Earlier, yesterday morning at 5.40, troops moved forward ahead of the Parappakandal(Purankadola) LTTE defences and overran a LTTE bunker line, killing 9 terrorists. According to SLA reports, two soldiers laid their lives while 15 others wounded were admitted to general hospital at Vavuniya.

Ground sources confirmed that many LTTE bodies were observed lying scattered in the battle lines and added that those not highly under decomposed state would be recovered while troops consolidated the defences.

Thirteen terrorists were killed in three separate incidents North of Paraiyanalkkulama when SLA elite task units encircled fleeing terrorist columns, yesterday evening. Military sources further said that, an LTTE tractor was also destroyed killing five terrorists in these strikes. No casualties were caused to own troops, Wanni defence sources confirmed.