11 killed in Lanka clashes

At least nine LTTE cadres and two security personnel were killed in clashes in the restive northern Sri Lanka as fighter jets backed the ground offensive strafing a rebel complex in Kilinochchi, officials said on Saturday.

8220;Sri Lankan Air Force fighter jets launched an air strike on a heavily reinforced building complex concealed in 1 km north of Iranamadu in jungle area in Kilinochchi on Saturday,8221; the Media Centre for National Security MCNS said. The complex had been used by the LTTE for various activities, MCNS said adding pilots of the fighter jets confirmed the target was successfully engaged.

While one LTTE cadre was killed in Anandakulam in North-east Welioya, another rebel was gunned down in the same area later in the day on Friday, the MCNS said.

One Army soldier also lost his life during the clash, the MCNS added.