* Sri Lankan troops breach LTTE earth bund in Palamattalan
Saturday, February 28, 2009, 17:36 GMT, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Feb 28, Colombo: Sri Lankan troops encroaching the LTTE' last remaining stronghold in Mullaitivu today breached the LTTE built earth bund in Palamattalan at the north end of the narrow land strip along the coast, the military said.

Troops of the 55 Division advancing from the south of Chalai crossed the bay-mouth and landed in the north of Palamattalan this morning following heavy fighting in the area since yesterday. Troops captured the 2 km long earth bund and a bunker line across the land strip.

Defence officials said troops fired at rebels fleeing in boats and completely destroyed 10 LTTE boats with the rebels onboard.

Citing Intercepted LTTE communications, the military said senior LTTE leaders commanded the battles and a senior Sea Tiger ground commander was among the dead.

Troops are conducting search and clear operations in the area currently.