Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters are liberating the last of the ISIS-invaded areas to the east of the Euphrates River in the final phase of the Operation Cizire Storm, while the gangs lay hundreds of landmines in an effort to keep their territory and stop the advance of SDF fighters.

Special SDF units have started efforts to clear landmines in the Al-Bagouz village after the village in Hajin was liberated from ISIS gangs to ensure the safe return of civilians to the region. The efforts are to conclude soon.

Bahoz Heseke, special units member part of the clearance efforts, said they have cleared gang remnants from several areas in the efforts launched yesterday.

Heseke added that the gangs laid large amounts of landmines in rural areas, thus targeting civilians. Heseke also said the gangs have barricaded all roads leading into the region: “We will clear the rubble and landmines as soon as possible to make sure the civilians can return safely as soon as possible.”