Istanbul, 20 June – Counter-narcotics teams in Istanbul have successfully intercepted a truck in Silivri, leading to the seizure of 130 kilograms of heroin. Two suspects have been taken into custody following the operation. The Istanbul Provincial Police Chief, Selami Yıldız, emphasized the commitment to combating drug trafficking, stating, “We will never allow drugs in Istanbul. We will never let our youth and future be stolen.”
Operation Targets Suspicious Truck
The Istanbul Police Department’s Narcotics Crimes Branch Directorate had been tracking a truck that entered Turkey from abroad on suspicion of carrying illegal substances. The vehicle was eventually stopped in Silivri while in motion. Narcotics teams, including the sniffer dog ‘Lady’, conducted a thorough search of the truck.
During the inspection, hidden compartments, referred to as ‘zula’ (stash) areas, were discovered in the truck’s trailer. These concealed sections contained packages of illegal drugs, leading to the immediate apprehension of two individuals.
130 Kilograms of Heroin Uncovered
The truck was subsequently transported to the Istanbul Police Department for a more detailed search. Istanbul Provincial Police Chief Selami Yıldız personally oversaw the operation as officers meticulously searched the trailer. The search revealed 203 packages containing approximately 130 kilograms of heroin.
Police Chief Vows to Protect Youth
Following the discovery, Police Chief Yıldız made a statement, reiterating the police force’s unwavering stance against drug-related crimes. “Our Narcotics Crimes Branch Directorate, acting on suspicion, stopped a vehicle where our narcotics dog ‘Lady’ detected a stash, leading to the seizure of 203 packages of drugs. We will now proceed with the weighing with our colleagues. We will never allow drugs in Istanbul. We will never let our youth and future be stolen. Our greatest strength is the support of the people of Istanbul,” he declared.
The successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Turkish authorities to combat international drug trafficking and protect the public from the harmful effects of illicit substances. The investigation into the two suspects and the origin of the heroin is ongoing.
