Wanted terrorist neutralized in southeastern Türkiye: Interior minister

By Baris Gundogan

A wanted terrorist was "neutralized" in a domestic anti-terror operation in southeastern Sirnak province, the Turkish interior minister said on Tuesday.

Security forces “neutralized” Ramazan Elicumus, codenamed Renas, in an armed clash that broke out in the Guclukonak district, Ali Yerlikaya said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

He said the terrorist was involved in many terror attacks with long-barreled weapons, planting hand-made explosives, and opening harassment fire.

The affiliation of the terrorist was not specified, but the PKK terror group is active in the area.

Elicumus had been listed on the Interior Ministry's wanted list with a reward of 500,000 Turkish liras (nearly $18,500) offered.

Turkish authorities use the term "neutralize" to imply that the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

On Monday, Turkish security forces also “neutralized” four PKK terrorists in the southeastern Diyarbakir province. Three of the terrorists were on the Turkish Interior Ministry’s list wanted list.

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

*Writing by Gozde Bayar