US-backed Syrian force declares victory over IS in Raqqa

BEIRUT (AP) — A U.S.-backed Syrian force declared victory over the Islamic State group in its former "capital" of Raqqa today, declaring the northern Syrian city free of any extremist presence after a four-month battle that left it in ruins.

At a news conference inside the city, the Kurdish-led force known as the Syrian Democratic Forces formally handed over administration of the devastated northern city to a council made up of local officials and tribal leaders and a 3,000-strong U.S.-trained police force tasked with governance and security.

In a highly symbolic move, the news conference took place inside the city's sports stadium which Islamic State militants had turned into an arms depot and a huge prison where they incarcerated and tortured their opponents.

"Our victory is one against terrorism, and the liberation of Raqqa marks the latest chapter in the fight against terrorists in Syria," said Talal Sillo, a spokesman and senior SDF commander.

Standing before a backdrop of shattered and collapsed buildings, Sillo appealed to the international community and aid organizations to assist with the city's reconstruction. The U.N. and aid organizations estimate about 80 percent of the city is destroyed or uninhabitable.