Free Syrian Army fighters clearing mines in Jarablus

JARABLUS, Syria

Children are seen on the streets of the northern Syrian town of Jarablus. AA photo

The Free Syrian Army (FSA) is cleaning Jarablus of mines and explosives planted by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militants before their withdrawal from the northern Syrian town, Anadolu Agency reported.

FSA sources told the agency that about 20 explosives were detonated on Aug. 26, with the operations continuing. Soldiers are examining evacuated houses and removing mines and explosives planted at the border with Turkey.

The FSA has gained full control of Jarablus district, part of Aleppo province in northern Syria, following “Operation Euphrates Shield” launched by the Turkish Armed Forces and an international anti-ISIL coalition.        
The operation began early Aug. 24 when artillery and airstrikes were followed by Turkish tanks crossing the border to target ISIL in support of FSA fighters.

Jarablus is located one kilometer from the Turkish-Syrian border.

An Anadolu Agency reporter in Jarablus reports that life is returning to normal days after “Euphrates Shield”
started, with many workplaces re-opening and children playing on the streets.

One business owner in the district, who asked not to be identified due to security concerns, expressed his satisfaction about reopening his shop shutters once again.

The owner said he was happy to regain his freedom as the FSA cleaned the town of ISIL militants.        

An electronic materials business owner, who also did not want to be identified, said he was happy to see his business open again after the withdrawal of ISIL militants. He wished for life in the district to return to normal as soon as possible.