SLA launches offensive to stall Tigers

[TamilNet, Sunday, 07 November 1999, 08:09 GMT]
The Sri Lanka Army (SLA) began operations this morning towards areas captured by the Liberation Tigers during the past few days in the Vanni region, said security sources.

They said fresh troops have been rushed to the fronts and the SLA units are moving from areas west of Kanakarayankulam (areas captured by Operation Rana Gosa), Mamaduwa, east of Vavuniya, and towards Puliyankulam.

Ground troops have recovered 60 bodies and 84 wounded soldiers in the operation, and added 32 Air Force personnel were also wounded in the fresh fighting this morning.

Residents said that the troops stationed in Vavuniya Army Head Quarters have opened up with artillery fire to support to the army units. They said few shells fired by the Liberation Tigers have hit Omanthai area.

Meanwhile, 9 SLA deserters were arrested by the Police at Madhu Road yesterday evening Police said.