Norwegian of Turkish origin held over links to PKK

BINGOL, Turkey

Turkish security forces have detained a Norwegian citizen of Turkish origin in eastern Bingol province for his alleged links to the PKK terrorist group in Norway, according to local provincial governorate on Saturday.

In a joint operation carried out by the provincial police department and National Intelligence Organization (MIT), Roger Carlsen -- a former Turkish citizen -- who is believed to be responsible for the PKK's structure in Norway, was apprehended in Solhan district.

A large number of PKK's organizational documents were also seized during the search.

Following procedures at the police station, the suspect was remanded in custody by a criminal court of peace.

Known as Ahmet A. while holding a Turkish citizenship, it was learned that the suspect had come to visit his relatives in the district a while ago.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including many women and children.

* Writing by Jeyhun Aliyev