2 soldiers martyred in operation in eastern Turkey

BITLIS, Turkey

Two Turkish soldiers were martyred on early Saturday in an operation conducted by the security forces in eastern Bitlis province of Turkey, according to Bitlis governor's office.

Two other soldiers were wounded during an operation against the terrorist organization PKK, said the statement released by the office.

The statement said that the operation to capture the traitors is still underway.

The office later stated that the security forces neutralized six PKK terrorists in a clash during the operation.

Turkish authorities often use the word "neutralized" in their statements to imply the terrorist in question was either killed or captured.

"Our security forces, with support of the local community, will continue to fight against terrorists throughout of our province for the purpose of providing peace and security," the statement said.

The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and EU -- resumed its armed campaign in July 2015 and since then has been responsible for the deaths of around 1,100 security personnel and civilians, including women and children.

Reporting by Sener Toktas;Writing by Emin Avundukluoglu