Istanbul, April 19 – In a significant blow to international drug trafficking, Turkish authorities have seized 106 kilograms of cocaine from a Panama-flagged vessel off the coast of Istanbul. The operation, coordinated by the Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, involved the Istanbul Provincial Gendarmerie Command, the Coast Guard Command, and the National Intelligence Organization (MIT).
Joint Operation Uncovers Hidden Stash
The meticulously planned operation targeted the Panama-flagged ship in international waters near Istanbul. Following extensive searches, the 106 kilograms of cocaine were discovered hidden in secret compartments within the vessel. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is approximately 500 million Turkish Liras.
A comprehensive investigation has been launched into the incident. This successful raid, a result of the close collaboration between three critical institutions, marks the latest effort in Turkey’s determined fight against drug traffickers.
Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek Comments on the Seizure
Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek issued a statement regarding the operation, emphasizing the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug dealers. “There is no passage for drug traffickers!” Gürlek declared. “Under the coordination of our Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, and with the effective cooperation of our Istanbul Provincial Gendarmerie Command, Coast Guard Command, and MIT Presidency, a major blow has been dealt to international drug trafficking.”
He further added, “106 kg of cocaine, with an estimated market value of approximately 500 million TL, seized on a Panama-flagged ship, has been prevented from reaching our streets thanks to the successful operation organized through the strong coordination of our state.”
“Determined to Eradicate Drug Barons”
Minister Gürlek reiterated President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s strong stance against drug crimes. “In line with our President Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s strong will and ‘Zero Tolerance Against Drug Traffickers’ principle, we are determined to clean our streets from this scourge and eradicate the drug barons,” he stated.
He concluded by thanking all those involved in the operation: “I thank our Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, Istanbul Provincial Gendarmerie Command, Coast Guard Command, MIT Presidency, and all public officials who contributed to this successful operation. We will make the world a living hell for drug traffickers!”
This operation underscores the Turkish government’s ongoing commitment to combating drug-related crime and protecting public safety. The joint effort of multiple agencies highlights the comprehensive approach being taken to disrupt international drug networks operating within the region.
The seized cocaine represents a significant quantity that, if distributed, would have had a devastating impact on communities. The ongoing investigation is expected to shed more light on the origins of the shipment and the individuals involved in this large-scale trafficking attempt.
Turkish authorities continue to enhance their intelligence gathering and operational capabilities to counter the evolving tactics of drug traffickers, ensuring that such illicit substances do not reach the public.
Source: haberler.com
