Post by Diarist on Jan 22, 2016 13:57:05 GMT 1
Northern Front
The Abyssinian Air Force has been concentrating its attacks on the 2nd CCNN Division and the Dankalia column on the Italian left flank. The Eritrean Corps in the centre of the front also received more attention. On the Abyssinian left the advance towards Tesseney progressed rapidly as the reports of the town being captured by British forces were reported. There was a battalion of the SDF reinforced with 'C' Company, 1st Lothians and Border Horse operating in the Italian's rear area.
In the afternoon Italian forces stopped attacking and one could observe some units retiring. The Abyssinian High Command had been informed that Eritrea's main port, Massawa, was in British hands. The order was given to follow the Italian invaders and not allow them to disengage and conduct an orderly withdrawal. Stay on their heels and force them to abandon equipment and supplies.
Southern Front
The mainly Somali force in Dolo was being attacked on three sides and in the evening they abandoned the town retreating towards Luuq and Wajid in the east. The 3rd East African Brigade was advancing from Bardere to Baidoa to block the road to Mogadishu.
The port of Kismayu had been encircled by 4th Indian Division and was now being besieged. The Royal Navy was providing fire support.
Not a good day for the Italians.