Troops enter Mallavi area: Heavy fighting escalates

Infantry, armour and artillery formations of the Army's 57 Division have overrun LTTE forward defences and reportedly entered into general area Mallavi in Mullaittivu district, following fierce fighting since this morning (Aug 31).

According to military, troops have gained control over key LTTE outposts in the area and positioned tactically in the probable fall of the garrison township, despite heavy resistance from LTTE.

Mallavi is a strategically important LTTE garrison located along the Vellankulama - Mankulama main road, linking the Mannar- Pooneryn (A-32) main road and the Kandy- Jaffna(A-9) trunk road. Due its significant positioning this area has been used as the hub of LTTE's administration and logistic activities, accommodating over dozens LTTE offices, defence observes state.

Initial reports from Wanni military sources further said that the troops are engaging heavy artillery and increasing the forward thrust into the Mallavi town area.

Pro-LTTE media have remained tightlipped and declined to comment on the latest ground situation, defence observes further noted.