Mysterious attacks in Vanni

A motion has begun in the Vanni to limit LTTE and other movements. Exact details of these activities cannot be revealed as the Army may deny them for purposes of safeguarding its overall plan of action. One objective of these Special Operations is to limit movements of LTTE leaders and the the rapid mobilization of LTTE cadres from theater to theater.

Unspecified actions have been planned and are currently being taken simultaneously, in all parts of the uncleared area in the Vanni, as part of an overall strategy to destabilize the enemy. This is in addition to aerial attacks and LRRP operations, both by the Special Forces and the Commando regiment. Plans are also afoot to put pressure on the LTTE to expedite the release of civilians or to declare Demilitarized Zones. Although we are unable to disclose what they are, close observations would reveal the nature of these activities.

Meanwhile the Nachchikuda-Vannerikulam LTTE trenchline, which was holding back the 58 Division for weeks now, is failing.

LTTE defences in Vannerikulam have collapsed completely and the Tigers have started abandoning the fight gradually, in the western coast. A few LTTE units have remained in Nachchikuda though the village has been flanked from the east. Withdrawing cadres are now being absorbed into the LTTE defences at Iranamadu.

The level of resistance offered to the 58 Division in Pooneryn in general, is observed to be dwindling. This could be more out of necessity than due to a strategy by the Tigers. The LTTE's demonstrated need has been to prolong the SLA's siege on Kilinochchi by inducting more fighters into trenches being newly constructed.

Field Commanders whom we spoke to mentioned that the gradual vacation of Pooneryn is a huge gamble for the LTTE considering the 58 Divisions clear intentions to capture Pooneryn. This Division is a highly mobile offensive division spearheaded by 2 Commando Regiment.

Their understanding is that if the 58 managed to reach Pooneryn, Paranthan would become untenable. Considering the fact that the 57 has laid siege to Kilinochchi from Iranamadu, and Akkarayan, Paranthan is now the back-door to Kilinochchi. It is also the door to Elaphantpass.