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Security forces pushed further into the strategically-vital Elephant Pass - the gateway in Jaffna, which the Tigers have their land route to their mainland territories, re-capturing an area of more than 10 kilometres, military sources revealed. Operation `Kinihira IX' raged on yesterday with the support of MIGs and Kfirs of the Sri Lanka Air Force hitting 50 identified Tiger targets and inflicting heavy enemy casualties. As combat aircraft and artillery pounded rebel strongholds, intensfied Navy patrolling off Vettilankerny prevented terrorists using the sea lane. According to LTTE radio transmissions about 52 terrorists have been killed and over 72 injured in the fierce battle between advancing security forces. However, the exact casualty figures are suspected to be much higher. Military sources also revealed that troops had later observed two completely destroyed 81mm mortar positions of the terrorists used in the fighting. Meanwhile, two officers and 52 soldiers were killed and nine officers and 227 others injured. During the clearing operation, troops recovered 29 T56 weapons, three RPGs, a 40 mm grenade launcher and a 81mm mortar during the search. However, clearing operations had been hindered due to heavily laid land mines. The strategically important-areas seized by government troops included Ponnar and Avarkadu, Southeast of Kilali and Eluthumadduval.
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