PKK attacks funeral convoy, kidnaps three in eastern Turkey

Handout by Turkish Armed Forces

Suspected members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have attacked a funeral convoy in the eastern province of Bitlis, kidnapping two civilians and one soldier, private broadcaster NTV reported on its website today.

The convoy, including voluntary village guards, was headed to the town center to bury the body when PKK members attacked the vehicles. Two village guards, one of them retired, were wounded in the attack.

PKK members then captured one soldier and two teachers and fled the scene.

Operations continue in the area to locate the hostages, as well as the assailants.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States and the European Union. (Hurriyet Daily News)