UPDATE - 3 PKK terrorists 'neutralized' in Turkey

UPDATES WITH ANOTHER OPERATION IN SANLIURFA; CHANGES HEADLINE; EDITS THROUGHOUT

By Sitki Yildiz

ANKARA (AA) - At least three PKK terrorists were "neutralized" during counter-terror operations in eastern and southeastern Turkey.

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

Air-backed operations were carried out in a rural area in Mt. Agri region, according to a statement by the governorship of Agri province on Wednesday.

Operations in the region are ongoing, the statement added.

Another PKK terrorist was also “neutralized” near the Syrian border in southern Sanliurfa province, said a security source on condition of anonymity due to restrictions in speaking to the media.

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.

* Rauf Maltas contributed to this report from Sanliurfa.