Tiger homeland shrinking

An LTTE team caught off-guard by yesterday's pre-dawn assault on Mulaitivu town is now trapped inside Mulaitivu town as the 59 Division commenced a clearing operation in the area yesterday. Communication lines were down from this afternoon to bring you the result of this operation.

Heavy fighting was reported in the last three consecutive days from the general area east of Kilinochchi, particularly from Visuvamadu, Piramanthaikulam and Karukkaikulam. Within the last week alone, over 270 LTTE bodies were recovered by the Army, majority being from Kilinochchi. By 12th January, the Tigers had a hardcore force of around 1,500 fighters and following recent clashes with the Army, the numbers could now be around 1100-1000.

The fighting is very similar to the ones witnessed along the former LTTE earthbund constructed around Kilinochchi town. Tigers have now abandoned the bund-warfare strategy in this area and LTTE cadres are fighting hard based on the mistaken belief that they will be massacred by the Army if they surrender. Surrendered or captured cadres claim the cadres are frightened of the Army and have no knowledge of the Army's humanitarian side.

The Tigers are now trapped into an area 22 miles by 15 miles and their remaining artillery guns will soon run-out of range. Intelligence sources estimate them to have around 800-1000 rounds left, which would become obsolete as the Army advances further into LTTE areas.

As the LTTE's strength dwindles, the SLA has placed majority of its offensive Brigades in reserve. The Special Forces Brigades are placed in full reserve and so is the 53. Out of the 4 Brigades of the 57, two are in reserve. One Brigade of the 58 is also in reserve.

The 55, under Prasanna Silva is set to take Chalai within the next 24hrs after gradually overcoming an earthbund. Brigadier Silva, who has a 2SF amphibious diving squadron, has continuously used unconventional tactics against the Tigers.