Istanbul, February 3 – In a large-scale operation spanning 22 provinces and centered in Istanbul, Turkish police have detained 96 suspects allegedly linked to the MLKP (Marxist-Leninist Communist Party) armed terrorist organization. The operation was announced by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
Extensive Counter-Terrorism Efforts Across Turkey
Minister Yerlikaya stated via his social media account that the fight to ensure peace and stability continues across all regions of Turkey. He provided details of the operation, highlighting the extensive coordination involved.
“In our operations conducted by our Police against the MLKP armed terrorist organization across 22 provinces, centered in Istanbul, we have apprehended 96 suspects,” Yerlikaya announced.
Coordination and Scope of the Operation
The operation was coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Istanbul Police Department. It involved the Istanbul Anti-Terror Branch (TEM) and Intelligence Branch Directorates. The investigation focused on individuals active within the armed terrorist organization’s youth and press structures.
The provinces where the operations took place include Istanbul, Antalya, Adıyaman, Şanlıurfa, Rize, Bursa, Van, Tekirdağ, Gaziantep, Samsun, Tunceli, Malatya, Diyarbakır, Kocaeli, Yalova, Balıkesir, Denizli, Ankara, Izmir, Sakarya, Adana, and Mersin.
Allegations Against the Suspects
According to the findings, the detained suspects are accused of:
- Operating within the organization’s youth and press structures.
- Receiving instructions through online meetings attended by high-ranking members of the organization.
- Participating in events for the organization’s 30th anniversary and in so-called commemoration activities and various other events organized in line with the organization’s directives.
- Sharing content promoting the organization’s propaganda.
Investigations have been launched against all apprehended individuals.
Multi-Dimensional Approach to Counter-Terrorism
Minister Yerlikaya emphasized that the fight against terrorism is not limited to law enforcement operations in the field. It is a multi-dimensional effort that includes security, intelligence, communication, and international cooperation.
“Our fight against terrorism is based on a multi-dimensional effort that encompasses security, intelligence, communication, and international cooperation, not just the field operations of our law enforcement forces,” he stated.
He concluded by congratulating the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Police Department, the heroic police officers, and everyone who contributed to the success of the operation.
This operation underscores Turkey’s ongoing commitment to combating terrorist organizations and ensuring national security.
