Iraqi-led forces successfully seized Mosul University from the Islamic State. The public academic institution was said to have been used by the militant group as its weapon factory.
Reuters reported that Iraqi Special Forces did a thorough check on the campus of Mosul University on Sunday. A spokesperson revealed that the inspection was done to verify that no Islamic State militants are in the vicinity.
Troops were also confirmed to have taken another area near the eastern part of the Tigris River. This is a significant feat for Iraqi forces as they continue to regain control over ISIS' major strongholds.
On Sunday, counter-terrorism service (CTS) spokesman Sabah al-Numan told the publication that Mosul University has completely been liberated and that they are clearing the area of militants. He also confirmed that the troops will continue to reclaim areas near the school.
According to the Associated Press, the Special Forces entered Mosul University grounds on Friday morning. They were able to take control of a neighborhood in the northeastern part of the school compound as well as the technical institute in the campus.
While this is a major victory against the militant group, there are still more battles to be fought. NPR noted that ISIS still has full control of the west side of the city which has over 70,000 civilians.
CNN added that the Iraqi troops found massive amounts of supposed chemical substances. They also discovered a "bomb factory" at the university.
Moreover, police revealed on Saturday that information from intelligence had led them to uncover a factory that was used to create chemical and toxic material for explosives. The facility was discovered on Friday in al-Bir, which is estimated to be 45 kilometers (27 miles) south of Mosul.
ISIS terrorists have been able to use mustard gas for its chemical weapons. Lt. Gen. Abdul Wahab al-Saadi also confirmed that their night raids have been effective in infiltrating ISIS headquarters.
