Iraqi army controls IS economic area W. Mosul

IRBIL, Feb 21 (KUNA) -- The Iraqi army announced on Tuesday that it retook an area which was representing an economic importance to the so-called Islamic State (IS) in western Mosul.
As part of the third phase of operation seeking to liberate Nineveh, some units of the Iraqi army retook Aharakiet village which witnessed a heavy presence and defensive fortifications of IS, the army said in a statement.
The statement stressed the economic importance of this area as it was a main source of funding IS, noting that some positions belonging to militants were completely destroyed during the military operations.
The defense ministry said later in a statement that national intelligence showed a large number of documents and equipment belonging IS.
Many electronic devices containing a lot of information on IS were seized by security, it added, noting that these devices will help liberate the northern coat of Mosul.
The Iraqi forces advanced yesterday towards Ghazlani camp and the surrounding area of Mosul airport during operations of regaining the west side.
The Iraqi forces supported by international coalition aircraft has been launching a broad military operation since October 17 to retake Mosul.
Last month, the joint operations command announced that the eastern side of Mosul was fully retaken. (end) sbr.hm