Colombo- Government troops backed by air cover recaptured a strategic rebel-controlled area in north-western Sri Lanka Thursday, killing 12 rebels after heavy fighting, the Defence Ministry said.

The Papamoddai area, 260 kilometres north of the capital, located along a key road used by the rebels to smuggle supplies from the north-western coastal area, was taken after several weeks of fighting.

The Defence Ministry said the area is strategically important, at a point close to a stronghold of the rebels located further north.

The Defence Ministry made no mention whether the army suffered any casualties in the fighting.

Government troops have been continuing military operations in the north-western Mannar district mainly to cut off the rebels' supply routes.

Security forces have vowed to recapture rebel-held areas before the end of the year. (dpa)