PRESS RELEASE
Dear Members of the Press,
During a cave search and clearing operation conducted on May 28, 2022, as part of Operation Claw-Lock, First Lieutenant Nuri Melih Bozkurt was martyred as a result of gunfire opened by terrorists. Due to heavy fire, his body could not be retrieved. The area was brought under control, and the terrorists were neutralized; however, despite all efforts, our martyr's body has not yet been found.
In the ongoing search operations, all areas where the body might be located are being meticulously scanned by specially designated teams. As part of these continued efforts, during a search operation on July 6, 2025, in a cave located at an elevation of 852 in the Operation Claw-Lock area—previously known to have been used as a hospital and now cleared of terrorists—19 of our personnel were exposed to methane gas. They were immediately transferred to the hospital; despite all medical interventions, five of our heroic personnel were martyred.
Rescue operations in the region are continuing with the coordinated efforts of fully equipped AFAD and Turkish Armed Forces teams.
We wish Allah’s mercy upon our venerable martyrs who lost their lives in this tragic incident that has deeply saddened us, and we extend our condolences and patience to their grieving families, the Turkish Armed Forces, and our noble nation. We also wish a swift recovery to our affected personnel.
Respectfully announced to the public.
Ministry of National Defense
Directorate of Press and Public Relations