Citing anti-terrorist officials, the report said police had found 21 grenades, three AK47 rifles, four cartridge clips and ammunitions. No one was arrested, but the report said police were seeking several suspects.

Kurdish rebels officially laid down their arms in September 1999, ending a struggle for independence of south-east Turkey that claimed 36,500 lives.

However, clashes have continued in the predominantly Kurdish region, the latest on July 8 in which two members of the escort of a provincial governor were killed.

WAR.WIRE