Istanbul, February 10 – Law enforcement authorities in Istanbul successfully dismantled an illicit drug manufacturing operation located in a derelict building in the Avcılar district. The operation, conducted by teams from the Avcılar District Police Department, led to the discovery of a sophisticated cannabis cultivation setup and the apprehension of one individual.
Police Act on Intelligence, Discover Drug Lab
The Avcılar District Police Department initiated an investigation following intelligence reports indicating drug manufacturing and trafficking activities within a four-story abandoned building in the Gümüşpala Neighborhood. Acting on this information, police teams launched an operation on Tuesday, February 10, targeting the specified address.
Upon entering the premises, officers quickly identified the first floor of the building as a dedicated drug manufacturing facility. During the raid, one suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, was taken into custody. The individual is currently undergoing questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.
Sophisticated Cultivation Setup Uncovered
The operation revealed a meticulously organized drug production environment. Police discovered female cannabis plants being cultivated indoors, supported by an elaborate system of heating and lighting fixtures designed to accelerate their growth. This setup indicates a deliberate and systematic approach to drug manufacturing.
In total, 19 cannabis plants, weighing approximately 14.5 kilograms, were found and seized from the makeshift laboratory. In addition to the plants, authorities confiscated various pieces of equipment used in the cultivation process, including electric heaters and ventilation systems. These items are now part of the evidence gathered for the ongoing legal proceedings.
Investigation Continues
The Avcılar District Police Department has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of the drug operation, including potential connections to larger criminal networks and the source of the cultivated plants.
This raid is part of a broader effort by Turkish law enforcement to combat drug-related crime. Recent reports indicate a series of successful operations targeting drug trafficking, including the closure of 69 drug-related channels on Telegram, the apprehension of individuals attempting to smuggle 2.5 million Turkish Liras worth of drugs by taxi, and the arrest of hundreds involved in encrypted group drug sales.
Further details regarding the suspect and the investigation are expected to be released as the case progresses. The incident underscores the continuous efforts of Turkish police to maintain public safety and dismantle illegal drug operations within the country.
