A Win in Vilattikulam

The Sri Lanka Army made several attacks inside LTTE controlled areas in Vavuniya and Mannar on the 3rd, 4th and 6th of October (this month). Independent sources claim that around 40 LTTE may have been killed in the attacks. The first strike was launched by around 400 troops, backed by Special Forces in the general area Vilattikulam.

In a move unexpected by the LTTE, the Army moved around 400 troops in a covert operation into Vilattikulam in Vavunia. The usual artillery and mortar barrages that signal the coming of such troops was avoided. Strict radio silence was also maintained. Troops engaged in the offensive on the 3rd bypassed LTTE bunker-lines and came upon 2 double cabs and 1 tractor. The three vehicles were transporting over thirty LTTE cadres which were attacked successfully killing the majority of them. On the 4th, another tractor full of LTTE cadres was ambushed. By this time, around six LTTE bunkers were also surrounded by troops. The army managed to completely neutralize the enemy manning the bunkers.

Special Forces units hiding along roads in Vilattikulam successfully attacked reinforcements. By 3rd afternoon, monitored radio communications indicated that 19 LTTE were killed. By 4th evening, the figure had risen to around twice that amount. 5 valiant soldiers sacrificed their lives in the offensive. On 6th morning, troops again infiltrated the general area Uylankulam successfully neutralizing advancing LTTE units. Exact number of LTTE casualties is still unavailable.