15 LTTE cadres killed in Kilali fighting

(August 11, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are facing increased pressure from the army as Wanni is now surrounded by 6 SLA divisions. Of these 57, 58, 59 and 61 divisions have seen the bulk of the action and have made much progress in the past several months. Although not given much publicity, small squads from the 53 and 55 divisions of the army have been launching attacks on LTTE defenses in Muhamalai, Kilali and Nagarkovil on a daily basis, in an attempt to prevent the LTTE from launching a massive attack on Jaffna peninsula.

On yesterday (10th) dawn, units from the army's 53 division stormed the LTTE FDL in Kiali, killing at least 15 LTTE cadres and overrunning several bunkers in the process. SLA units returned to their original position after razing the captured bunkers to the ground. Military Intelligence has warned of a possible LTTE thrust upwards as the pressure on LTTE strongholds such as Mullaithiv and Kilinochchi is increased. LTTE has a 1000 strong troop concentration in Mahamalai/Nagarkovil/Kilali axis, majority of them being experienced and battled hardened cadres. DN. - Sri Lanka Guardian