Turkish Customs seizes 50 luxury cars worth over $15M in operation

Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade Customs Enforcement teams have seized 50 luxury vehicles, valued at approximately ₺540 million ($15.2M), in a coordinated operation spanning 11 provinces.

The effort targeted individuals exploiting temporary import regulations to unlawfully leave high-value cars within the country.

Misuse of temporary import permits identified

The operation, centered on major border crossings including Sarp, Kapikule and Ipsala, was initiated following extensive risk analysis and system inspections by customs authorities.

Investigations revealed that certain individuals brought luxury vehicles into Türkiye under temporary import permits but left the vehicles in the country without fulfilling their legal obligations.

Additionally, some individuals reportedly exploited regulatory exemptions by falsely presenting eligibility for temporary import permits.

Details of operation targeting luxury cars

As a result of these findings, customs teams executed operations across 11 provinces, confiscating 50 illegally imported luxury vehicles. The total market value of the seized vehicles is estimated to be around ₺540 million.

Authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing under the supervision of the Hopa Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Economic and legal implications

Officials emphasized the broader economic risks posed by such illicit activities, highlighting potential revenue losses from unpaid taxes and customs duties.

These activities not only harm public welfare but also undermine fair market competition. Customs authorities reiterated their commitment to combating illegal vehicle imports and maintaining strict oversight at border checkpoints.