Turkish troops destroy dozens of terrorist hideouts

By Sidar Can Eren

TUNCELI, Turkey (AA) - Turkish forces have destroyed 29 terrorist hideouts in eastern Turkey.

In Operation Eren-7 Mercan Munzur, 59 security teams composed of 1,062 personnel raided hideouts in the Tunceli province, according to the governor's office.

Since early January, security units backed by helicopters have been searching the snow-covered mountainous region and located the hideouts.

A large cache of ammunition and survival gears were also recovered.

The operation is ongoing.

Although the governor’s office did not specify any terror groups in the statement, the PKK is known to hold activities in the region.

In its more than 35-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. The YPG is the PKK's Syrian offshoot.

*Writing by Ali Murat Alhas