US backed Syrian forces declare victory in IS capital, Raqqa

A US-backed Syrian force has declared victory over Islamic State in its former de facto capital of Raqqa, declaring the city free of any extremist presence.

At a press conference held inside the city, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) formally handed over administration of the city in northern Syria to a council made up of local officials and tribal leaders.

Talal Sillo, a spokesman and senior SDF commander, declared: "Our victory is one against terrorism."

The press conference was held inside the city’s sports stadium which IS militants had turned into a huge prison, where they incarcerated and tortured their opponents.

Mr Sillo urged the international community and aid organisations to help with the city’s reconstruction.

The Latest: US-backed force declares Raqqa free of IS https://t.co/hXxOw1XyCy

— Yabo Mora (@Yabo_Mora) October 20, 2017