Istanbul-Centered Drug Operation Leads to Seven Arrests Following International Cocaine Seizure
Istanbul, January 18 – Seven suspects have been apprehended in a comprehensive drug operation centered in Istanbul, with simultaneous raids extending to Mersin, Tekirdağ, Kocaeli, Sakarya, and Hatay. These arrests are directly linked to a massive 10-ton cocaine seizure conducted by Spanish security forces on a vessel in international waters.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the details of the operation via his social media account, commending the efforts of the Istanbul Police Department’s Narcotics Crimes Branch and the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office for their coordinated work.
International Operation Uncovers Massive Cocaine Shipment
The international operation, carried out by Spanish security units, targeted a vessel in international waters. During the intervention, a total of 13 crew members were detained, including four Turkish nationals, one Serb, one Hungarian, and seven Indian nationals. The operation successfully intercepted approximately 10 tons of cocaine.
Follow-Up Investigation in Turkey Leads to Further Arrests
Following the international seizure, the Istanbul Police Department’s Narcotics Crimes Branch, under the coordination of the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, launched an extensive investigation to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of being connected to the operation. This led to the simultaneous raids across six Turkish provinces.
Minister Yerlikaya specifically congratulated the Istanbul Police Department, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, and all police officers involved in the successful execution of these operations. He emphasized the importance of such coordinated efforts in combating international drug trafficking.
Details of the Turkish Operation
The Turkish phase of the operation was initiated after suspicions arose regarding the involvement of certain individuals in the 10-ton cocaine seizure. The simultaneous raids were meticulously planned and executed across multiple cities, demonstrating the wide reach and effectiveness of law enforcement in combating organized crime.
The seven suspects detained are currently undergoing questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are expected to provide further details as the inquiry progresses, potentially revealing more about the drug trafficking network and its international connections.
This operation underscores the commitment of Turkish authorities to collaborate with international partners in the fight against drug-related crimes, which pose a significant threat to global security and public health. The successful interception of such a large quantity of cocaine and the subsequent arrests highlight the effectiveness of intelligence sharing and cross-border cooperation.
The incident also brings to light the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in monitoring and intercepting drug shipments, especially those conducted in international waters. The scale of the seizure suggests a highly organized criminal enterprise, prompting further investigations into its origins, routes, and ultimate destinations.
Authorities have not yet released specific details about the roles of the detained individuals or the exact nature of their alleged involvement in the drug trafficking network. However, the multi-province nature of the operation suggests a complex and well-established criminal infrastructure within Turkey, supporting international drug smuggling activities.
The Interior Minister’s public announcement aims to reassure the public of the government’s unwavering stance against drug trafficking and its determination to bring perpetrators to justice. The operation serves as a stark warning to criminal organizations that their activities will be met with resolute action from law enforcement agencies, both domestically and internationally.
Further updates on the investigation are anticipated as judicial processes unfold and more information becomes available regarding the network’s operations and the eventual prosecution of those involved.
Source: https://www.sabah.com.tr/gundem/2026/01/18/ispanyada-gemide-10-ton-kokain-ele-gecirilmisti-olayla-baglantili-7-supheli-gozaltina-alindi
