DAMASCUS: Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) has eliminated a senior operative of the PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG terrorist organization in northern Syria, according to Turkish security sources. The killed terrorist, Heysem Cuma, also known as Heysem Abu Dahham, was responsible for multiple bomb attacks, including the 2019 bombings in Jarablus and the 2020 car-bombing in Afrin, which resulted in the deaths of 40 civilians, including 11 children, and left 47 others injured.
Operating in Manbij, Syria, Cuma was actively involved in the transfer of arms intended to target Turkey’s terror-free zones in northern Syria, particularly the Euphrates Shield Operation Zone, the sources stated on condition of anonymity due to media restrictions. The MIT conducted an operation in the city center of Manbij on July 9, successfully neutralizing Cuma.
PKK’s Terrorist Attacks Against Turkey
Over the past 35 years, the PKK has waged a terrorist campaign against Turkey, leading to the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.
Since 2016, Turkey has undertaken a series of effective anti-terror operations along its border in northern Syria to prevent the establishment of a terror corridor and ensure the peaceful settlement of residents. These operations include Euphrates Shield in 2016, Olive Branch in 2018, and Peace Spring in 2019.
