Sri Lanka says 27 troops killed in heavy fighting

25/11/2008 14:22:47

Heavy fighting is continuing in Northern Sri Lanka along three fronts near the Tamil Tiger's political headquarters in the town of Kilinochchi.

Our south Asia correspondent, Sally Sara, reports at least 27 soldiers and 120 Tamil Tiger rebels have been killed with the rebels putting up stiff resistance.

Sri Lankan troops and rebels are engaged in heavy fighting near the Tamil Tiger's de facto capital.

Government forces attacking from three sides have faced strong resistance.

Thousands of people have been displaced by the violence.

Severe flooding has muddied the battle field and made it difficult for civilians to escape.

The latest fighting comes after months of escalating unrest.

The Sri Lankan government withdrew from a Norwegian-brokered peace deal in January.

More than 70,000 people have been killed, since rebels began their campaign for a separate homeland.

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