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2 tons of drugs seized, over 2,000 arrested across 76 provinces in Türkiye

Narcotics police officers from the Anti-Narcotic Crimes Directorate with reflective vests, Türkiye, September 2024. (AA Photo)
By Newsroom
Dec 3, 2024 9:05 AM

In a series of coordinated anti-narcotics operations known as “Narkocelik,” Turkish authorities confiscated 2 tons and 12 kilograms of illegal drugs over the past three weeks.

The operations, conducted across 76 provinces, also resulted in the arrest of 2,248 suspects involved in the drug trade.

Coordinated efforts against drugs in 76 provinces

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the results of the operation on social media, revealing that it involved extensive collaboration between the Ministry of Interior, the General Directorate of Security’s Narcotics Crimes Department, and local law enforcement agencies.

“Keeping our youth, who are the guarantee of our future, away from drugs is our common duty. If you notice anything suspicious about drugs around you, call 112. We will do what is necessary,” Yerlikaya stated.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya’s statement on X

The operations spanned three weeks, utilizing 3,165 teams, 8,236 personnel, 34 aircraft, and 82 narcotic detection dogs.

2 tons of drugs seized, over 2,000 arrested across 76 provinces in Türkiye
Stacked bales of drugs that have been confiscated as part of Türkiye’s war against drugs, October 2024. (AA Photo)

Drugs seized and arrests made

The “Narkocelik” operations led to the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs, including:

  • 2 tons, 12 kilograms of narcotics
  • 890,035 narcotic pills

In addition to the drugs, authorities detained 2,248 suspects linked to the trafficking and distribution of illegal substances.

Synthetic drugs fuel the urgency in Türkiye's war against drugs to protect public health. (Adobe Stock Photo)
Türkiye’s war against drugs intensifies with record-breaking cocaine seizures and targeted raids, uncovering complex networks and connections, Türkiye, November 2024. (AA Photo)

Minister Yerlikaya’s statement

Minister Yerlikaya stressed the importance of fighting drug trafficking to safeguard the future and well-being of Turkish society. He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to drugs.

“We must all be sensitive and fight resolutely against the drug dealers who threaten the future and peace of our society,” Yerlikaya warned.

Last Updated:  Dec 3, 2024 10:20 AM