Captured last LTTE base in Thoppigala: Lankan Army

Colombo, July 11: Sri Lankan military today claimed that the advancing Commando troops have reached Thoppigala, the last LTTE stronghold in the thick jungles of the Eastern Batticaloa district this morning.

''Commandos and soldiers of the SL Army have reached the Baron's Cap (Thoppigala) few hours ago,'' the Defence Ministry claimed in a statement.

With this victory, the troops have captured the nerve centre of the LTTE terrorists in their last stronghold in the eastern province, the Defence Ministry claimed, adding that the troops have gained the full control over the adjoining areas such as Narakamula, and Tharavikulama where the LTTE leadership had it's Eastern headquarters and fortifications.

The capturing of Thoppigala came a day after the military said the resistance from the Tigers has decreased during the past couple of days.

The victorious soldiers are presently clearing out enemy pockets scattered in the dense jungle and are perusing the LTTE cadres on the run, the Defence Ministry said.

The government said yesterday that the capture of the entire Eastern province from the Tamil Tiger rebels was politically, socially, militarily and strategically crucial for the future of Sri Lanka.

Economically, it is significant in that the natural harbour of Trincomalee is located in the region where international companies like Prima and Tokyo Cement have invested in a big way. Further, the famous tourist potential cannot be ignored, the government spokesman on Defence matters and Minister of Foreign Employment, Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters yesterday.

He said the government was looking forward to hold elections in the east after it was completely captured, to enable the people elect their own representatives and to restore democracy.

There was no immediate reaction from the LTTE regarding the latest claim by the military.

UNI