SLA push fails in Paalaikkuzhi, SLAF bombs Madu area- LTTE

[TamilNet, Saturday, 16 February 2008, 22:05 GMT]
Attempts by Sri Lanka Army (SLA) soldiers to push forward in Paalaikkuzhi, Mannaar Saturday morning 7:00 a.m. was foiled according to Mannaar Operations Command of the Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE).

SLA initiated clashes supported by heavy artillery and mortar fire lasted one hour but after a pitched battle, the troops withdrew from the battle front heavy losses. LTTE cadres pursued the troops causing further losses.

The details of SLA losses are unavailable.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) bombers flew sorties over the vicinity of Madu church Friday and again Saturday, On Friday morning 11:00 a.m., at least eight bombs were dropped in Madu 16 Housing Scheme, destroying the settlements of the internally displaced People (IDP), according to sources from Mannaar.

The aerial attack continued Saturday in the dense jungle area behind Madu church destroying some trees. Bombs were also dropped close the church.

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