Drug operation in Istanbul leads to 153 arrests
Turkish Police Department of Special Operations officers standing during an operation. (AA Photo)
Turkish authorities arrested 153 suspects in a large-scale drug operation targeting street-level dealers across Istanbul, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on social media.
The operation, named “Narkokapan 14: Sehit Bora Baris Guler,” was carried out in coordination with the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the General Directorate of Security’s Anti-Narcotics Crimes Department, and the Istanbul Police Department’s Anti-Narcotics Crimes Division.
Coordinated operation targets drug dealers
Law enforcement conducted simultaneous raids in multiple districts of Istanbul, primarily in Gaziosmanpasa and Kagithane, seizing significant quantities of narcotics and weapons.
Authorities confiscated:
- 25.5 kilograms (56.2 pounds) of heroin
- 17 kilograms of methamphetamine
- Various amounts of skunk, cocaine, and narcotic pills
- Three precision scales
- Four unlicensed firearms
- One unlicensed pump-action shotgun
- Large amounts of Turkish lira and foreign currency
Minister Yerlikaya calls for public cooperation
In his statement, Yerlikaya emphasized the government’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, urging citizens to report any suspicious activity.
“It is our common duty to keep our young people, who are our future, away from drugs. If you have any suspicion about drugs, report it to 112 Emergency Call Center. We will do the necessary,” he said.
Authorities applaud police efforts
The interior minister also praised the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and Istanbul police for their efforts in the operation, reinforcing the government’s ongoing crackdown on illicit drug trade.
Türkiye has intensified its anti-drug operations in recent years, targeting both local street dealers and international trafficking networks.
