Islamic State militant killed while transferring explosives in Diyala
Members of the Iraqi Special Operations Forces take their positions during a patrol looking for militants. Archival photo.
“A driver on board of a Mercedes vehicle tried to pass quickly through three security checkpoints in Qurret Tapa, northeast of Diyala,” the source told Alghad Press on Wednesday. “Security troops managed to follow the militant.”
“After besieging and opening fire against him, the militant tried to leave the vehicle and run away through al-Qasaba al-Qadima region, however, troops were able to kill him.”
Explosives were found in the car, the source said.
Earlier this month, Iraqi troops regained full control on Hamreen mountains that stretch out between Diyala and Kirkuk provinces, retaking areas between Zgheitoun bridge reaching until al-Fatha bridge, an area that stretches out 45 kilometers with depth of 15 kilometers.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi and the Joint Operations Command announced on September 21, the launch of first phase of operations to liberate Hawija and eastern Shirqat, north of Salahuddin. Federal Police, Rapid Response and the pro-government Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) took part in the attack, according to the command.
Iraqi troops managed to retake several IS strongholds including Mosul and Tal Afar in Nineveh, Hawija in Kirkuk and Annah in Anbar. Only Qaim and neighboring Rawa currently remain in IS grip.