Istanbul police detain 59 in raids targeting Daesh terrorist organization

Turkish authorities have detained 59 suspects in an extensive counterterrorism operation against the Daesh terrorist organization in Istanbul.

The raids, conducted at 68 locations across the city, targeted individuals allegedly involved in illegal activities under the guise of an organization known as “Ilm and Wisdom Magazine.”

Counterterrorism investigation uncovers Daesh links

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office’s Terror Crimes Investigation Bureau launched an inquiry into individuals suspected of participating in unauthorized gatherings.

Authorities determined that these meetings were organized under the leadership of a suspect identified as Zeynel P., allegedly a figurehead in Daesh’s local network.

The investigation further revealed that the suspects collected funds under the pretense of aids and donations, intending to smuggle Daesh terrorist organization members from conflict zones into Türkiye.

Additionally, authorities found that some of the suspects were engaged in spreading extremist propaganda via social media platforms.

Coordinated raids lead to multiple arrests

Counterterrorism teams executed simultaneous operations at 68 addresses across Istanbul, detaining 59 individuals. Officials confirmed that arrest warrants had been issued for a total of 63 suspects.

During the searches, law enforcement seized:

• A handgun and a rifle
• Two magazines and 155 rounds of ammunition
• A bayonet
• $3,947 in U.S. currency
• Four Daesh-affiliated flags
• Various organizational documents and banned publications

One of the locations used for illegal gatherings was shut down by authorities and sealed off.

The suspects have been taken into custody for further interrogation. Authorities continue efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining individuals identified in the investigation.