Nine PKK terrorists have been “neutralized” in northern Iraq, according to a security source Thursday.

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

The terrorists were neutralized in northern Iraq’s Hakurk region while they were reportedly plotting to carry out an attack on Turkish military bases, according to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media.

The terrorists were spotted by military drones in Yuksekova in southeastern Hakkari province, the source added.

Turkish Armed Forces have neutralized 50 terrorists in northern Iraq since March 10.

The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- resumed its armed campaign against Turkey in July 2015.