Latest from Rajo: More than 30 dead, dozens wounded

During six hours of clashes between the Turkish army and YPG/YPJ fighters, more than 30 soldiers were reportedly killed, while a group of Turkish JÖH-PÖH (special operations forces of gendarmerie and police) were encircled in an area under YPG control.

According to information ANF obtained from local sources, the Turkish army attempted to attack the village of Bililka in Afrin’s Rajo district. Clashes erupted upon the response of YPG/YPJ fighters on the basis of legitimate defense.

During six hours of clashes, more than 30 soldiers were reportedly killed, while a group of Turkish JÖH-PÖH (special operations forces of gendarmerie and police) were encircled in an area under YPG control. Clear details about the encircled group are not available yet as clashes continue in the area.  Reports suggest that JÖH-PÖH members are among those killed.

According to reports, Turkish helicopters that were dispatched to the area were damaged and forced to retreat, while a Cobra type helicopter reportedly crashed on Hatay side of the Turkey-Syria border.

YPG/YPJ and SDF sources have not made an official statement about the fighting yet.