Turkish forces discover underground hospital in Afrin

By Sarp Ozer

AFRIN, Syria (AA) - Turkish military on Sunday discovered a hidden underground hospital in Afrin town center during security sweeps.

During the search, the security forces found a 50-meter underground tunnel, which provides an access to the hospital from outside.

In one section of the hospital -- where many medical supplies were kept hidden -- an X-ray machine and the U.S.-made first aid materials were also found.

The medical drips and bloody uniforms of the terrorists indicate that a large number of terrorists were treated during the Turkish military-led operation.

Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch on Jan. 20 to clear terrorist groups from Afrin, northwestern Syria amid growing threats from the region.

On March 18, Turkish-backed troops liberated the town center of Afrin, which had been a major hideout for the YPG/PKK since 2012.

Afterwards, the Turkish military began security sweeps for mines, improvised explosive devices, and terrorist hideouts to wipe out any traces of terrorism so residents can resume their normal lives.