Iraqi forces regain control of villages, IS positions W. Mosul

IRBIL, Feb 19 (KUNA) -- The Iraqi forces, in the first hours of their offensive to liberate West Mosul, succeeded in regaining control of villages and positions from so-called Islamic State (IS), the Joint Command said Sunday.
Army and police forces regained control of 13 villages and hoisted the Iraqi flags over many liberated buildings, commander of the Nineveh operations Gen. Abdulamir Yarullah said in a statement.
Meanwhile, commander of the federal police Gen. Raed Jawdat said the police troops killed 97 gunmen, destroyed 13 booby-trapped vehicles, dismantled 30 explosive devices, destroyed three tunnels and five explosive belts.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi announced the start of operations to liberate West Mosul. (end) sbr.bs