Turkish jets 'neutralize' at least 3 terrorists in N. Iraq

By Ahmet Salih Alacaci

ANKARA (AA) - At least three PKK terrorists were neutralized in northern Iraq, the Turkish Defense Ministry announced on Sunday.

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

Airstrikes carried out on Jan. 12 in the Zap and Sinat-Haftanin regions neutralized terrorists plotting attacks on Turkish bases, the ministry said on Twitter.

Turkish jets also destroyed shelters and depots of the terrorists during the operation.

Airstrikes in this region generally target PKK terrorists.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including women and children.