Istanbul is among safest cities in world by population: Governorate

Istanbul Governor Davut Gul announced significant improvements in public safety for 2024, emphasizing reductions in crime rates as crimes against individuals dropped by 9.6% and property crimes by over 28%.

“This means Istanbul’s improvement in personal crime rates surpasses the national average by nearly 100%,” Gul stated.

Speaking at a meeting held at the Istanbul Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), Governor Gul presented 2024’s public safety data.

Highlighting Istanbul’s central role in Türkiye’s security and stability, Gul said, “The peace of Istanbul is the peace of Türkiye.” He noted that 63,915 personnel from the police, gendarmerie, and Coast Guard are on duty throughout the year, ensuring safety across the city.

Increase in operations against terrorism and organized crime

Governor Gul highlighted the rise in operations against terrorist groups, with the number of detained suspects increasing by 7% compared to the previous year.

“The amount of funds seized from sources supporting terrorism has tripled, reaching ₺11.18 million ($315,743). It’s crucial to understand that the Republic of Türkiye, with its millennia-old tradition, is a strong state determined to eliminate terrorism in all its forms,” Gul remarked.

On organized crime, Gul reported:

• 56% increase in operations in 2024, with the number rising to 273.
• 33% increase in dismantled criminal networks.
• Confiscated assets surged 3.5 times, amounting to 33 billion lira.

“Just as with terrorism, we will continue our resolute fight against organized crime and will not allow anyone to disturb the peace of our citizens,” Gul vowed.

A safer Istanbul by numbers

Gul asserted that Istanbul is one of the safest cities globally relative to its population, emphasizing “This doesn’t mean there is no crime, but the numbers show a consistent decline in incidents and an increase in resolution rates.”

Crediting the additional personnel and resources provided by the Interior Ministry, he also highlighted success in combating theft and other property crimes, noting:

• 24.6% increase in apprehensions related to major offenses.
• Fines totaling ₺53.8 million imposed on 508 properties for unauthorized short-term rentals in 2024.

Gul stated that operations targeting illegal production and distribution of alcohol increased to 3,747 in 2024. “The amount of seized illicit alcohol more than doubled. Despite these efforts, 110 citizens were poisoned by counterfeit alcohol, with 48 fatalities,” he said. Legal proceedings were initiated to revoke the licenses of 63 businesses involved.

He further emphasized measures to protect minors, including mandatory camera systems for establishments selling alcohol and tobacco products. “Our goal is to enforce the law, prevent the sale of alcohol and cigarettes to those under 18, and prohibit alcohol sales after 10 p.m.,” he explained.

Gul reaffirmed the state’s commitment to tackling drug use and trafficking. “Our operational efforts increased from 7,836 to 10,288 in 2024, with a 32% rise in seized narcotics, totaling 25 tons,” he reported. He also emphasized prevention through community projects aimed at engaging youth in sports, arts, and social activities.

Traffic safety and migration management

Turning to traffic safety, Gul reported a doubling of traffic enforcement teams and a 90% increase in inspections. However, he expressed concern over traffic fatalities, with 166 lives lost in 150 fatal accidents. “We urge all citizens to adhere to traffic rules and remain vigilant,” he said.

On migration, Gul noted that Istanbul hosts over 1 million foreign residents, including 503,000 Syrian refugees. “Voluntary returns by Syrians increased 6.5 times in 2024. As stability in Syria improves, these returns will continue,” he added.

The introduction of mobile migration units in 2023 has streamlined the management of undocumented migrants, with the number of questioned individuals increasing 5.5 times in 2024. “Our fight against illegal migration will continue with respect for human rights and without compromising public order,” Gul concluded.