The bases at Elephant Pass and Mullaitivu were under attack, yet stable.

Brigadier Fernando said 500 government troops had died since the attack on Elephant Pass.

Elephant Pass was thought to be an impregnable military complex.

The clear target of the battle was the Elephant Pass.

The rebels also advanced north towards Elephant Pass and Jaffna.

Elephant Pass, another strategic location lies to the South of Muhamalai.

Operations to clear mines continue, particularly in the heavily mined area towards Elephant Pass.

More importantly, the Elephant Pass military base, was the only land route for Jaffna.

If the rebels were going to surround Elephant Pass they would have to take the north-south highway.

Elephant Pass and Paranthan military bases, further north, were also attacked to block reinforcements.