Turkish jets 'neutralize' 5 terrorists in northern Iraq

By Sertac Bulur

ANKARA

Turkish jets "neutralized" 5 terrorists as part of anti-terror operations in northern Iraq, according to the military on Monday.

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

In a written statement, the Turkish General Staff said the airstrikes were carried out in Zap and Haftanin regions on Sunday.

The statement said that the terrorists were reportedly plotting to stage attacks on Turkish bases.

Shelters and munition depots used by terrorists were also destroyed during the airstrikes.

Turkish airstrikes in this region generally target PKK terrorists.

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.

Reporting by Sertac Bulur:Writing by Nilay Kar