12 Individuals Arrested for Touting at Istanbul Airport
Istanbul, June 19 – Twelve individuals have been arrested in connection with touting activities at Istanbul Airport. The arrests followed an operation conducted by the Istanbul Police Department’s Istanbul Airport Branch teams, in coordination with the Gaziosmanpaşa Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. The suspects were accused of harassing both local and foreign passengers under the guise of offering transportation services, thereby gaining unfair profit and creating unfair competition among legitimate companies.
Police Operation Leads to Detentions
A total of 21 suspects were initially detained in the operation, which took place on June 16. During searches conducted as part of the operation, authorities seized an unlicensed pistol, 50 rounds of ammunition, and 21 mobile phones. The preliminary actions at the police department for all 21 suspects have now been completed.
Judicial Proceedings and Control Measures
Following their processing at the police department, the suspects were transferred to the courthouse. Of the 21 individuals, 12 were formally arrested and remanded into custody. For the remaining nine suspects, judicial control measures were imposed, specifically prohibiting them from entering the Istanbul Airport Terminal and its extensions.
This crackdown aims to ensure fair competition among transportation service providers and to protect passengers from harassment and exploitation at one of the world’s busiest airports. Authorities continue to monitor such activities to maintain order and provide a safe environment for all travelers.
The Istanbul Police Department has reiterated its commitment to combating illegal activities and ensuring the security and comfort of passengers using Istanbul Airport. Further investigations into the network of touts and their operations are expected to continue.
