the function doesn't work. it doesn't delete the files.

I found out. it's due to the filepath parsing.

the problem is not even that.
it seems there is some kind of conflict in the JFile/JCOOKFile class.
even using the unlink() function directly with the file (but using it inside the class) the file will not be deleted.

if I use the unlink() function directly in the jmodel.item.php (bypassing the switch "delete, trash, thumbs") it perfectly works.

I had a look, and I can't find the issue.
It is working for me.

If you want to delete the file, you must select 'delete'

When choosing 'remove (unlink)', it only erase the link of the image, and leave the file. This is the normal behavior.
Is it correct for you or do you have an issue using 'Delete' ?

I don't remember now, I have to take a look again on the code where it didn't work.I'll do on the next days I guess.
by the way, I'm talking about the php unlink() function.

Are you running under Windows, Mac OSX, or Unix ?

The component do not call unlink php function.
It uses the Jooma Framework, through JFile Class.

... but it is the same.

Tell me when you have more informations.