Troops push towards southern Jaffna : Fighting intensified
[17 Jan 2001]  

Heavy fighting erupted last evening as the army's massive operation Kinihira IX, sprang into full force, breaking LTTE defence lines, and pushing towards South of Kilali and Eluthumadduval in the Jaffna Peninsula.

The operation targeting the strategically vital Elephant Pass commenced at dawn yesterday with full support from tanks, artillery and air. 

Military spokesman Sanath Karunaratne said the advancing troops encountered resistance two kilometres south of military defences at Eluthumadduval. 

Eighteen soldiers have been killed and nearly 90 wounded.

This offensive is this year's first major military operation and has so far left a total of around 42 dead. 

According to Security Forces bodies of 22 terrorists have been recovered. 

It was also revealed that the Tigers are resisting very hard, relying heavily on artillery and mortars to stop troops from advancing. 

According to a statement released by the Tigers, the LTTE was stated of putting up a fierce resistance against what they called a "major offensive operation." 

However, it made no mention of Tiger casualties.

Meanwhile, artillery shells fired by terrorists had fallen on Kodikamam village, 10 kilometres North of Eluthumadduval, killing a civilian and wounding another. 

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