Turkish security forces “neutralized” five PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, the Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

Axar.az reports ciitng Turkish media.

The neutralized terrorists were plotting an attack, the ministry said in a tweet.

Turkish Armed Forces conducted the offensive in Haftanin region as part of Operation Claw-3.

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

On May 27, Turkey launched Operation Claw against the PKK in the Hakurk region of northern Iraq, followed by its second and third phases in July and late August.

Over 400 PKK terrorists were “neutralized” in northern Iraq over the past four months, according to the ministry.

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 deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children and infants.