Iraqi forces along with Shia militiamen are planning to encircle Islamic State (IS) militants in Tikrit on the third day since the major offensive began to retake the Iraqi city.
According to reports, Iraqi forces are closing in on IS militants in Tikrit but the progress has been slowed due to roadside bombs.
Security forces said that the extremists have captured villages and oil fields east of the city and blocked a key IS supply line, reported BBC.
Around 30,000 soldiers and militiamen have advanced gradually since the offensive began on Monday.