Almost 50 PKK terrorists neutralized in Operation Claw since May 27

A total of 48 terrorists have been neutralized since May 27 in Turkey's counter-terrorism operation in northern Iraq, an official statement said on Friday.

The ongoing Operation Claw which was launched by Turkish Armed Forces against the PKK terrorist group neutralized three more terrorists in the Hakurk region on Friday, bringing the total number to 48, the National Defense Ministry said on Twitter.

Authorities often use the word "neutralized" in statements to imply terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

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 many women and children.