“Commandos and soldiers of the SL Army have reached the Baron’s Cap (Thoppigala) few hours ago,” the Defence Ministry claimed in a statement on Wednesday morning.
It said the troops have also gained full control over the adjoining areas such as Narakamula, and Tharavikulama areas “where the LTTE leadership had its Eastern headquarters and fortifications.”
“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terrorists in their last stronghold in the eastern province,” the Defence Ministry said, adding that LTTE cadres have withdrawn to the jungles in West of Thoppigala.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in a statement paid tributes to the troops.
“I join the people in offering tribute and good wishes to the members of the Armed Forces, Police and Special Task Force who captured the last stronghold of the terrorists located at Thoppigala,” the President said.
Earlier on Tuesday, the government said the capture of Eastern province from the rebels was “politically, socially, militarily and strategically crucial” for the future of Lanka.