Istanbul reports on anti-terror, crime, migration enforcement for 2024

Istanbul Governor Davut Gul has announced the city’s public safety achievements from January to October 2024, detailing extensive anti-terror operations, crime prevention initiatives, and measures to combat irregular migration.

Speaking at the Provincial Disaster and Emergency Directorate, Gul highlighted Istanbul’s commitment to ensuring public security in Türkiye’s largest metropolis.

Anti-terror operations lead to key arrests and prevention of attacks

In efforts to combat terrorism, Istanbul authorities conducted 2,945 operations, resulting in the apprehension of 6,023 individuals and the detention of 621 suspects. Additionally, three potential terrorist attacks were successfully prevented.

Governor Gul emphasized Istanbul’s continued progress in countering terrorism and intercepting resources supporting such groups, seizing over ₺8 million ($233,590) in funds suspected of funding terrorist activities.

Significant progress against organized crime in Istanbul

In the first 10 months of 2024, Istanbul’s security forces launched 216 operations against organized crime, dismantling 162 criminal groups.

These efforts resulted in the arrest of 1,813 individuals, with 1,179 held in custody. Seized assets from organized crime groups totaled ₺32.5 billion. ($949,059,452)

The governor reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance against crime, maintaining a significant police presence throughout the city.

Enforcement on irregular migration and human smuggling

Addressing irregular migration, Governor Gul reported that over 300 operations targeted human smuggling activities, leading to the arrest of 739 individuals, including 259 detained for further legal action.

The governor noted that Istanbul’s Mobile Migration Control Units had checked 586,000 foreign nationals, leading to the deportation process for over 60,000 undocumented migrants.

Anti-drug operations yield substantial seizures in Istanbul

With an emphasis on public health and safety, Istanbul authorities intensified anti-narcotics efforts, conducting 8,419 drug-related operations. Law enforcement seized 23 tons of narcotics, over 35 million pills, and thousands of cannabis plants.

The governor highlighted the government’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and maintaining safety around schools and other public areas.

Traffic and public order initiatives to enhance safety

Governor Gul outlined several traffic enforcement measures taken to address the city’s road safety, noting that nearly 15 million traffic checks had been conducted. Despite these efforts, 144 people lost their lives in 130 fatal accidents, with another 34,590 injured.

The governor stressed the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and underscored efforts to reduce noise disturbances from unlicensed fireworks and loud celebrations.