Security forces destroy PKK explosives in east Turkey

By Yilmaz Kazandioglu

HAKKARI, Turkey (AA) - Turkish forces have destroyed seven hand-made explosives with high destructive capacity planted by PKK terrorists in the eastern Hakkari province bordering Iraq, security sources said on Saturday.

The explosives planted by the terrorists in Cukurca district were destroyed as part of the anti-terror operations being conducted in the province since March 19, said the sources, who asked not to be named due to restrictions on talking to the media.

The anti-terror raids aim to prevent border crossing of PKK terrorists.

The mountain commando unit were airlifted to Altintepe and Sentepe regions, which are 2,200 meters in altitude for the operation.

The sources added the security forces are also establishing new bases on the high altitude areas in order to prevent any PKK element in the region.

The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- resumed its armed campaign against Turkey in July 2015.

Since then, it has been responsible for the deaths of more than 1,200 Turkish security personnel and civilians, including a number of women and children.