Three PKK terrorists were “neutralized” Friday during an air operation in eastern Turkey, according to the regional governor’s office.

Axar.az reports quoting Anadolu Agency.

The military generally uses the term "neutralize" to signify that the targets have been killed.

The terrorists, which were neutralized in the Agri Mountain area, were reportedly planning an attack on border units and residents.

The terrorists were also involved in martyring a Turkish soldier on March 12, the statement said.

The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- waged a terror campaign against Turkey for more than 30 years and has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people.

More than 1,200 Turkish security personnel and civilians, including a number of women and children, have been killed since July 2015 alone when the group resumed its armed campaign against the country.