Turkey: 3,700+ PKK terrorists killed since last July

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey

More than 3,700 PKK terrorists have been killed in counter-terrorism operations since the group resumed its 30-year-armed campaign against the Turkish state in July 2015, according to data compiled by Anadolu Agency based on Turkish security reports.

Reports indicate that a total of 5,629 terrorists have been “neutralized” in the operations so far. Out of this number, 3,765 have been killed, while 604 others have been wounded. Another 664 have been captured, and the remaining 596 have surrendered.

The reports also show that since July 24, 11,331 people have been arrested in operations against the PKK and its youth movement, the YDG-H.

Of the over 11,000 people held, 3,661 people have been remanded in custody.

The heavy toll incurred by the terrorist organization was also revealed in radiotelephone orders by a top PKK leader recently intercepted by Turkish security forces.

"Do not disclose the disintegration in the organization over the radio. Keep up the pretense that you are continuing to revolt in a heroic manner. Say it often and share it with media outlets close to us,” Cemil Bayik reportedly said.

Bayik also ordered PKK terrorists “not to leave the injured behind,” as they could speak to Turkish authorities. He also ordered them to destroy buildings while withdrawing and to set booby traps in excavated tunnels.

The number of security forces members martyred in the operations has also exceeded 400.

According to official records, 240 troops, 157 police officers, and nine village guards were martyred between July 7, 2015 and April 17, 2016.