Iraqi security forces approaching main government complex in western Mosul – officer

(Reuters/IraqiNews.com) Iraqi security forces are getting close to the main government complex in western Mosul in their offensive to dislodge Islamic State militants from their last stronghold in the city, a military media officer said on Tuesday.

“The provincial council and the governorate building are within the firing range of the Rapid Response forces,” a media officer with the elite Interior Ministry units told Reuters.

Iraqi forces recaptured eastern Mosul late January after three months of fighting to take over the city that fell in IS hands in 2014. The forces, invading western Mosul from its southern entrances, have recently regained control over strategic areas, including the city’s airport, a military base, a major bridge and a handful of districts.

Earlier on Tuesday, Federal Police chief, Lt. Gen. Shaker Jawdat, said in statements that 929 Islamic State members were killed since operations began on February 19th to recapture the western side of the city.

According to Jawdat, 200 fighters were killed on Monday alone, adding that 84 booby-trapped vehicles and 3 drones were destroyed and brought down during battles.

Iraqi and U.S.-led coalition generals have predicted the liberation of Mosul to be consummated within six months from the beginning of offensives.