2 terrorists ‘neutralized’ in southeastern Turkey

By Sertac Bulur

ANKARA (AA) – At least two terrorists were neutralized in an anti-terror operation in southeastern Turkey, the country's Interior Ministry said on Wednesday.

In a statement, the ministry said the armed terrorists were targeted by local gendarmerie forces in the Bestler-Dereler district of the Sirnak province during Operation Eren-13.

The terrorists’ affiliation was not specified, but the PKK terrorist group has been active in the region.

The ministry added operations against terrorists in the region are ongoing.

Turkish authorities often use the word "neutralized" in statements to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

Operation Eren, named after Eren Bulbul, a 15-year-old killed by the terrorist PKK on Aug. 11, 2017, began in January to eliminate terrorism in the country.

In its more than 35-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK – listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and EU – has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.

* Writing by Gozde Bayar