TAL ABYAD, Syria

Syrian National Army (SNA)Thursday foiled a YPG/PKK terror attack in northern Syria when they found a bomb-laden lorry during sweep and clear efforts in Tal Abyad.

Tal Abyad falls within the area of Operation Peace Spring, Turkey’s anti-terror operation launched on Oct. 9 to eliminate YPG/PKK terrorists from northern Syria east of the Euphrates River to secure Turkey’s borders, aid in the safe return of Syrian refugees, and ensure Syria’s territorial integrity.

The SNA forces stopped the lorry heading to the district center of Tal Abyad which was cleared of terrorists with Turkey’s operation.

During a search on the vehicle, they found a bomb, which was later detonated in an area away from civilians.

Mohamed Cerrah, a commander in the SNA fighting alongside the Turkish forces in Turkish-led anti-terror operations, said the terror group had previously targeted the civilians with bomb-laden vehicles, as well.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the European Union -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children and infants. The YPG is its Syrian offshoot.

*Writing by Fahri Aksut