Special security zones declared in southeast Turkey

By Sayim Harmanci

HAKKARI, Turkey

Turkish authorities on Saturday declared special security zones in parts of Hakkari province.

The Hakkari Governor’s office said in a statement that 30 areas in Hakkari’s central district along with Cukurca, Semdinli and Yuksekova districts near the Iraqi border would be designated as special security zones between April 9 and 23.

The measure was taken to protect people’s lives and property, maintain peace and protect the state and public from terrorist threats and attacks, according to the statement.

It said the measure had been taken under Turkey’s law on forbidden military zones and security zones.

The governor’s office said the public would not be allowed to enter the zones during the specified period.