By Can Erozden

ANKARA 

At least five PKK terrorists were neutralized in air operations carried out in northern Iraq on Monday and Tuesday, according to the Turkish military.

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

The terrorists, preparing for an attack on Turkish bases, were neutralized by airstrikes carried out in the Zap, Avasin-Basyan, Gara and Metina regions, the Turkish General Staff said on Twitter.

Ammunition depots and shelters used by the terror group were also destroyed in the airstrike, according to the statement.

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 some 40,000 people, including women and children.