In a significant new development, it has been revealed that PKK terrorists have set forests ablaze and completely burned down the village of Dergele in northern Iraq. By detonating ammunition depots in the villages of Miska and Dergele, the terrorists have endangered civilian lives. Moreover, it has been discovered that the terrorists have booby-trapped evacuated villages around the operational zones with explosives.
During searches conducted by Turkish commandos in Dergele village, a two-barreled MLRS launcher system was found. The launcher system was found to be rigged with explosives, which were successfully defused by METI teams. Commandos have continued their careful search operations in Dergele and Miska villages, ensuring the utmost sensitivity to avoid damage to civilian property. Explosives in booby-trapped houses are being meticulously cleared.
It has also been identified that terrorists are using civilians as shields, booby-trapping homes and gardens in other villages as well. During searches in Dergele village, numerous weapons, ammunition, and equipment were seized, while two PKK terrorists were neutralized along with their weapons.
The seized materials are listed as follows:
– 2 M-16 rifles, 2 thermal scopes, 10 magazines, 109 rounds of ammunition
– 1 AK-47 rifle, thermal scope, 12 magazines, 89 rounds of ammunition
– 1 Czech VZ-58 rifle
– 1 light machine gun
– 10 hand grenades
– 97 rounds of 7.62 mm PKMS machine gun ammunition in belts
– A large quantity of 5.56 mm firearm ammunition
– 3 pistol magazines
– Materials used in IED construction
– 3 thermal weapon scopes
– 2 hand binoculars
– 1 weapon scope
– 1 daytime vision scope
– 7 Yaesu handheld radios and numerous miscellaneous items
Officials indicated that this effective operation has dealt a significant blow to the terrorists. They affirmed that operations will continue to ensure safety and protect civilians.
Source: Republic of Turkey Ministry of National Defense