Stepping up their onslaught on the beleaguered de-facto Tiger capital of Kilinochchi, Sri Lankan Army captured a third major junction town flanking it killing scores of rebels in intense battles.
After heavy fighting lasting days, the government forces claimed they have captured the strategically vital Terumurikandy junction last evening, the defence ministry said.
Terumurikandy, located just 8-km from Kilinochchi, is the fourth major town to fall to government forces in the last two months. The army has recently taken control of Kokkavil, Olumadu and Pooneryn towns, long held by the Tigers.
"Troops of 57 Division on multi-pronged Tiger offensive towards LTTE's main administrative base, Kilinochchi, gained control of the Terumurikandy junction last evening," the ministry said.
LTTE fighters put up a stiff resistance to the army advance but were unable to hold for long after facing a superior air and ground fire power.
"Scores of LTTE cadres were killed and many others reportedly sustained injuries during the intense fighting reported in the area for last two days," the ministry added.
They said troops progress towards Kilinochchi was continuing well and the army units were concentrating on the capture of the southern junction of Iranamadu.
{{/usCountry}}They said troops progress towards Kilinochchi was continuing well and the army units were concentrating on the capture of the southern junction of Iranamadu.
{{/usCountry}}Simultaneously the Lankan troops are also keeping up pressure on the last remaining coastal base of the Tigers at Mullaittivu.