47 suspects arrested in Istanbul drug trafficking operation
Turkish police operation against drug dealers in Istanbul. (AA Photo)
In a large-scale operation targeting drug dealers, Istanbul police arrested 47 suspects in simultaneous raids across several districts, the city’s Narcotics Crime Department announced on Saturday.
The operation, led by the Narcotics Crimes Division of the Istanbul Police Department, focused on apprehending street-level drug dealers, commonly referred to as “street dealer.”
The goal was to curtail illegal drug sales and combat narcotics trafficking in the city.
Simultaneous raids in key districts
The police conducted raids in the districts of Beyoglu and Gaziosmanpasa, targeting specific addresses identified during an investigation. Special operations teams secured the streets leading to the targeted locations, using long-barreled weapons to ensure the safety of the operation.
In several instances, police used battering rams to break down doors and gain access to suspects’ premises.
Weapons, drugs and cash seized
During the raids, police arrested 47 suspects linked to drug trafficking activities. Searches of the suspects’ residences and vehicles uncovered a range of illicit items, including narcotics, an unlicensed firearm, 87 rounds of ammunition and two precision scales.
In addition, authorities seized ₺69,895 ($2,048), which is suspected to be proceeds from illegal activities.
