Iraqi forces kicked off an operation to clear Rutbah in western Anbar of landmines and "Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant" (ISIL) remnants and black banners, following its liberation last month, the Ministry of Defence announced Friday (June 3rd).
The move aims to pave the road for the return of citizens, the ministry said.
"In co-operation with the municipality, about 3,000 members of the army, police and landmine and explosives removal units have launched an operation to clear Rutbah" of ISIL remnants, ministry spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Rasul told Al-Shorfa.
"The goal is to bring citizens back to their homes so they can resume their normal life," he said, adding that the operation may take up to two months.
"Priority is given to clearing homes, followed by schools and service government departments," he said.
