The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, Colombo

Sri Lanka's military announced the capture of a small town in the north after fighting Friday that killed 15 Tamil Tiger rebels and two soldiers, calling it an important step in dismantling guerrilla strongholds in the area.

Military spokesman Brig. Udaya Nanayakkara said the soldiers took control of Adampan town in northern Mannar district, which could restrict guerrilla movement and transportation of arms.

Rebel spokesman Rasiah Ilanthirayan could not be reached immediately for comment. It was not possible to obtain independent confirmation of the military's claims because reporters are not allowed in the war zone. Both sides are known to exaggerate death tolls and damage inflicted upon each other while underreporting their own losses.

Troops have battled for months over territory around the rebels' northern strongholds, promising they would crush the insurgents by the end of the year.

The rebels have strongly resisted and halted some military advances. Tamil Tigers have fought since 1983 to create an independent homeland for minority Tamils who have been marginalized by successive governments controlled by majority Sinhalese. More than 70,000 people have been killed.

AFP report adds: At least 74 Tamil Tiger rebels and three Sri Lankan soldiers have been killed in the latest battles in the island's north, according to the defence ministry on Thursday. It said the three days of fighting that ended on Thursday occurred in the Vavuniya, Mannar and Weli Oya areas, from where government forces are trying to push into the guerrillas' northern territory.

Troops on Thursday advanced into rebel-controlled areas in the Mannar district killing 10 guerillas, the statement said, adding that one soldier was killed and another injured in the clashes.