The rebel died during a morning skirmish in a mountainous area close to both the Syrian and Iraqi borders, according to the official statement posted on the Internet.

The PKK, considered a terrorist organization by Ankara, the United States and the European Union, has increased attacks against security forces in southwestern Turkey since the beginning of 2007.

Since its inception in 1984, the armed PKK has fought for self-rule in a struggle that has cost more than 37,000 lives.