Turkish intelligence disrupts foreign espionage networks, detains 66 operatives in 2024
Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization (MIT) building. (AA Photo)
The National Intelligence Organization (MIT) intensified its counter-espionage operations in 2024, successfully dismantling multiple foreign intelligence networks operating within Türkiye.
Throughout the year, MIT detained 66 individuals accused of attempting to leak classified information to foreign intelligence agencies. Among them, seven were linked to China, three to France, and 56 to Israel.
Liridon Rexhepi, identified as the individual managing Mossad’s financial operations in Türkiye, was among those apprehended.
Daesh terrorist captured in Aleppo amid broader crackdown
MIT also intensified its operations against Daesh throughout 2024. Abdullah El Cundi, a senior Daesh operative preparing attacks on Turkish security forces in the Euphrates Shield and Olive Branch operation zones, was captured in Aleppo.
In Türkiye, MIT provided intelligence support for seven counter-terrorism operations against Daesh, leading to the detention of 62 suspects.
Following a January 28 attack on Santa Maria Church, MIT-backed simultaneous raids on 30 locations resulted in 51 arrests. Viskhan Soltamatiov, who planned the attack and supplied the weapons, was also captured through MIT intelligence efforts.
FETO network disrupted in joint operations
MIT, in collaboration with police and gendarmerie units, conducted 12 operations targeting FETO networks in 2024.
A total of 642 suspects were detained, including former judge Mustafa Karatay, who had been on the run for eight years, and a key figure referred to as the group’s “security sector imam.”
MIT conducts 42 operations against PKK in 2024
The National Intelligence Organization carried out 42 operations against the PKK in 2024, neutralizing 44 high-ranking members of the group.
Of these operations, 20 were conducted in northern Iraq and 15 in Syria. Among those neutralized were four individuals listed in the “red” category, one in the “gray,” and one in the “green” category of Türkiye’s most-wanted list.
The targeted operations aimed to disrupt PKK leadership structures and prevent planned attacks on Turkish territories.
Historic prisoner exchange operation executed
On August 1, MIT led a historic prisoner exchange, described as the largest since World War II.
As part of the operation, seven planes transported 26 individuals to Türkiye from the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Russia.
The exchange resulted in 10 hostages, including two children, being transferred to Russia, 13 to Germany, and three to the United States.
The operation, sanctioned by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, underscored Türkiye’s role in international diplomacy, particularly in mediating conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war.
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