This Article is From Apr 09, 2009

Lankan Army captures Puthukkudiyiruppu West, 53 rebels killed

Colombo: At least 53 LTTE rebels were killed in fierce clashes with Sri Lankan troops in the island's embattled north as the security forces captured a strategic rebel stronghold, army said on Wednesday.

Soldiers of the 58 Division of the Lankan Army after resting control over the Puthukkudiyiruppu West are now engaged in mop operations in the area, the Defence ministry quoted its sources as saying.

According to battlefield reports, the government forces found bodies of 28 LTTE cadres since Monday, the ministry said adding, yesterday alone troops found bodies of 14 rebels along with weapons.

Heavy clashes ensued in both north and south of A-35 road (Paranthan-Mullaittivu) on Monday as troops from north entered into the Puthukkudiyiruppu West, which is located about 18 miles from Parantham.

Puthukkudiyiruppu is the last township in the remaining LTTE enclave which is located about 3 miles from the Puthukkudiyiruppu West built up.

As many as 11 more civilians have fled from LTTE and have sought protection with security forces at Pothpathi and general area Oddusudan yesterday, it said.
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