Turkish military finds YPG/PKK terror HQ in Afrin

By Sarp Ozer

AFRIN, Syria (AA) - Turkey’s military on Friday found headquarters buildings of the terrorist group YPG/PKK during security sweeps in areas of Afrin, Syria liberated from terrorists.

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.

- Terror indoctrination in schoolbooks

The former terrorist headquarters included meeting rooms, pictures and symbols of jailed PKK head Abdullah Ocalan on the walls -- underscoring that the YPG/PKK is the PKK’s Syrian branch -- and other propaganda materials of the terrorist group.

Security forces also conducted bomb sweeps of the building, which was used by high-ranking terrorist group members.

In some parts of the building, the military found explosives planted by the terrorists.

A printing press was also found, along with numerous books and other publications of the terrorist group, including propaganda books for elementary school students.

The Turkish military is continuing its security sweeps for mines and terrorist hideouts in Afrin’s city center.

The Turkish General Staff has repeatedly stated that the objective of Operation Olive Branch is to establish security and stability along Turkey's borders and the region as well as protect Syrians from terrorist cruelty and oppression.