12 detained in counterterrorism operations in Istanbul and Sakarya
Police detain 12 suspects linked to the DHKP/C terrorist organization in simultaneous anti-terrorist operations across Istanbul and Sakarya (AA Photos)
In simultaneous operations conducted in Istanbul and Sakarya, 12 suspects were detained for allegedly organizing field activities and meetings for the terrorist group Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party-Front (DHKP-C).
The Istanbul Police Department’s counterterrorism and intelligence units identified suspects involved in the organization’s field activities and meetings.
The teams conducted simultaneous operations at 14 locations in Istanbul and one in Sakarya, capturing 12 suspects.
Two of the suspects were reportedly apprehended at the Idil Cultural Center in Sisli, known for operating in line with the organization’s ideas and ideologies.
During the searches, two laptops that had been burned, numerous mobile phones, and digital materials were seized.
The detained suspects are currently undergoing processing at the police department.
DHKP-C
The DHKP-C is recognized as a terrorist organization not only by Türkiye but also by the EU and the U.S.
The DHKP-C was founded in 1978 under the name Revolutionary Left (Dev Sol) and adopted the name DHKP-C in 1994 following internal conflicts, emerging as a splinter faction of Dev Sol. It adheres to a Marxist-Leninist ideology. The organization aims to overthrow the Turkish Republic through violent and coercive methods and seeks to harm the presence of the U.S. and NATO in Türkiye.
The methods used by the organization include assassinations, suicide attacks, bombings, and armed assaults.
Recent terrorist attacks carried out by the organization include:
- The attack on the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul on Aug. 10, 2015.
- The assassination of Prosecutor Mehmet Selim Kiraz at the Istanbul Courthouse on March 31, 2015.
- The bombing of the U.S. Embassy on Feb. 1, 2013, which resulted in the death of a Turkish security guard and injured three others.
The DHKP-C continues its activities in European countries through various associations, cultural centers, and media outlets, engaging in propaganda, recruitment, and generating financial support.
