Iraqi security forces have initiated an operation called ‘expand and extend’ in the Saladin and adjoining Anbar governorates. The purpose is to protect power transmission towers from terrorist activities and sabotage.
According to Azzam Kamel Tuwaisan, the director of the al-Siniya sub-district in northwestern Saladin, the 91st brigade of the Iraqi Army has expanded its presence into the “prohibited zones” that lie between al-Siniya and Haditha district, as reported by the Shafaq News Agency.
He stated that the main objective is to safeguard power towers from any damage and potential terrorism attacks.
Tuwaisan provided information about the 400 kV power line that spans around 120 kilometers from Anbar to Saladin. According to him, over 30 kilometers of this line, which is located outside the protected zone, has been dismantled by security forces to increase their presence and prevent any potential attacks on the towers.
According to the director, measures will be taken to protect power towers in vulnerable areas. This will include deploying both stationary and mobile patrols, as well as implementing aerial surveillance plans.
Tuwaisan emphasized that the primary sources of danger are located in the Al Jazeera region, which spans Anbar, Nineveh, and Saladin. This area remains a hub for the movement and activities of ISIS militants.
Previously, four power transmission towers located between Anbar and Saladin were destroyed by terrorist attacks involving explosives. This resulted in major service disruptions. Nonetheless, the Ministry of Electricity’s maintenance teams acted quickly and repaired the damage, which enabled the service to be restored.
