2 terrorists 'neutralized’ in southeastern Turkey

By Cankut Tasdan

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish security forces have neutralized at least two terrorists in an anti-terror operation in southeastern Turkey, the Interior Ministry said Monday.

The terrorists were neutralized as part of Operation Yildirim-2 Cilo in rural areas of the Hakkari province, it said in a statement.

During the operation, gendarmerie forces seized an M-16 rifle and two Kalashnikovs, it added.

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

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

This summer, Turkey has launched a series of security operations to neutralize terrorists believed to be hiding out in the country's east and southeast.

In its more than 30-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 nearly 40,000 people, including women, children and infants.