After being honey trapped to advance into Pooneryn by the LTTE who strategically relocated to Paranthan, SLA's TF1 is bearing the brunt of fierce counter attacks launched by LTTE regular and commando units. Over the past few days, TF1 has largely turned into an offensive force trying to hold on to their FDLs. A decapitation strike at TF1's rear is expected imminently.
Informed LTTE sources have told this blog owner that SLA 57th formations who attempted to advance towards Iranamadu west have been targeted by Ratha regiment artillery and mortar units, SLA's advance has been effectively stalled just in front of the L-shaped earth bund. The SLA also used MBRLs and MBTs (main battle tanks) during numerous pre-dawn raids, after initially gaining territory, the formations have gone back to their original positions following wave after wave of counter artillery and mortar barrages from the Ratha units. Sources also indicate that Victor anti tank units have managed to cripple at least two MBTs. The abandoned MBTs can be observed between no man's land in the theatre of operations.
With the 53rd and 55th also being resisted on the MKN axis, it remains to be seen what the SLA's next strategy is. Informed sources have indicated that battle fatigue, low morale and water borne illnesses have plagued SLA front line units. SLA casualties during the past week have been over 300KIA and over 500 walking wounded.
