Türkiye detains 54 irregular migrants in nationwide operations
Irregular migrants are caught off the coast of Ceşme district in Izmir, Türkiye (Coast Guard Command - AA Photo)
Over the last two days, Türkiye authorities have detained a total of 54 irregular migrants in various regions across the country.
These operations reflect the ongoing efforts by security forces to tackle illegal immigration and enhance border control measures.
19 irregular migrants detained in Cesme
On March 14, the Türkiye Coast Guard apprehended 19 irregular migrants, including four children, off the coast of Cesme in Izmir. The operation was launched after receiving intelligence about a group of migrants aboard a rubber boat. The Coast Guard responded quickly, intercepting the boat and detaining the individuals on board. After the necessary procedures, the migrants were transferred to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management for further processing.
5 irregular migrants detained in Mersin
In Mersin, another operation conducted by the Provincial Police Department’s Migration Smuggling and Border Gates Branch resulted in the detention of five irregular migrants. This operation took place across six locations and 15 public establishments, with a total of 271 people checked using the General Information Gathering (GBT) method. The detained individuals were sent to the Migrant Reception and Transfer Center (GOKSEM) for further processing.
12 irregular migrants detained in Kirklareli
On March 15, authorities in Kirklareli detained 12 irregular migrants in the district of Kofcaz. The operation was carried out by local gendarmerie forces as part of their ongoing efforts to address irregular migration. After completing the necessary procedures, the detained migrants were transferred to the Pehlivankoy Removal Center.
6 irregular migrants detained in Kars, 2 with fake passports
In Kars, six irregular migrants were detained, two of whom were found to be carrying fake passports. The other four had no identification documents. This operation, carried out by the Kars Provincial Police Department’s Migration Smuggling and Border Gates Branch, led to the apprehension of these individuals. After processing, the migrants were sent to the removal center for further actions.
These operations underscore Türkiye’s commitment to managing irregular migration and securing its borders. Authorities continue to focus on national security and are working to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration, while adhering to international standards and regulations.
