Turkish security forces destroyed nearly two tons of explosives hidden by the PKK terror group in the country's eastern Bitlis province on Thursday.

According to a statement released by the Bitlis governorate, gendarmerie forces discovered a depot used by the terror group after receving intelligence on the presence of weapons in the nearby area.

"Around two tons of explosives that were ready for use have been destroyed. A large pit, five-meters in depth and 20-meters in width, was formed as a result of the explosion," the statement said.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU and has waged a terror campaign against Turkey for more than 30 years, during which more than 40,000 people have been killed.

Since the group resumed its armed campaign in July 2015, more than 1,200 people, including security personnel and civilians, have lost their lives.