The Iraqi army on Sunday launched a key operation on the crisis-hit city of Ramadi, which been controlled by anti-government fighters for weeks, officials said.
While talking to state television, military spokesman Mohammed al-Askari said the troops were backed by helicopter cover and imposed a ban on movement within the city.
A police lieutenant colonel in Ramadi city, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the operation had begun.
“The Iraqi army launched a large operation with helicopter cover against Daash, Al-Qaeda and terrorists in Ramadi,” Askari said, according to Iraqiya TV, referring to terms frequently used by Iraqi security forces to describe militants.
The police officer said those taking part in the operation included policemen, tribal fighters, and SWAT forces. He said helicopters were also firing on targets in the extensive militant-held Malaab neighbourhood in the centre of the city.
Also on Sunday, at least six pro-government Sunni Muslim militiamen were gunned down by armed men wearing army uniforms at a checkpoint near the Iraqi city of Baquba.
According to police, the victims included the local leader of the “Sahwa” (Awakening) tribal militia, along with two of his sons.
