ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - Units from Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) units carried out a multi-axis security operation in Nineveh province, while a senior commander conducted a field visit to forces stationed along the Iraqi-Syrian border, according to statements released on Thursday by the PMF Media office.

The 21st and 60th brigades, under the Nineveh Operations Command of the PMF, launched a security operation from three directions, with support from infantry units and reinforcement forces.

Brigade 21 advanced from two axes, while Brigade 60 led the third, conducting search and clearance missions in several villages and rural areas.

The operation aimed to pursue individuals wanted by the judiciary and dismantle remaining sources of terrorism activity.

Forces searched individuals, weapons caches, caves, tunnels and hideouts, with support from explosive ordnance disposal teams. Security measures were also imposed to regulate vehicle and civilian movement within the areas of operation to ensure the safety of residents.

Separately, the commander of the PMF’s Rafidain Operations Sector, Major General Nazem Kadhem Mousa al-Saadi, visited units of the 10th Brigade deployed within their area of responsibility along the Iraqi-Syrian border.

During the inspection, Saadi reviewed the fighters’ readiness and the progress of assigned security duties. He stressed the need to maintain the highest levels of vigilance and combat preparedness, strengthen fortifications and sustain continuous monitoring of the border strip.

The commander praised the high morale and discipline of the brigade’s personnel and received a detailed briefing on operational tasks and field challenges.

He directed that obstacles be addressed and necessary logistical support be provided to ensure the efficient execution of duties and to reinforce security and stability along the Iraqi-Syrian frontier.

Iraq's frontiers with Syria have long been a source of concern regarding their potential exploitation by jihadist groups, leading to Baghdad employing additional security measures along the frontier.

Over 5,700 Islamic State (ISIS) fighters were recently transferred from Syria to Iraq amid January's conflict between the Kurdish-led Rojava (northeast Syria) administration and the Damascus government, which raised fears of extremist detainees availing of the chaos to free captivity.