Iraqi security forces continue pursuing ISIS sleeper cells in Diyala
ERBIL, Iraq (North Press) – On Wednesday, the Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced the seizure of four strongholds belonging to the Islamic State (ISIS) in Diyala governorate, on the fourth day of a campaign led by the security forces.
“For the fourth consecutive day, the forces of the Rapid Response Division continue to carry out cleansing and thorough searches in Diyala,” the ministry said in a statement seen by North Press.
“The Rapid Response Forces were able to find 4 strongholds for ISIS members, and were also able to open paths inside the agricultural orchards, most of which were a safe shelter for ISIS,” the statement added.
Four days ago, the security forces launched a large military campaign to chase ISIS sleeper cells in the orchards of 9 villages in northeast Diyala.
The campaign came in response to the attack, which had taken place in the vicinity of al-Jizani village in the governorate, on April 23, which killed 4 people and wounded 6 others, including security members and civilians.
It indicated that the aim of the operation is to open roads to prevent terrorist infiltration, as well as the exploitation of abandoned areas.
It also pointed out that the operation contributes to encourage people in those areas to return to their villages in order not to be exploited by ISIS.