Turkish Authorities Arrest 234 in Major International Drug-Trafficking Crackdown

International Police Operation Uncovers Major Drug-Trafficking Network

By DTD- On Apr 15, 2025

Ankara — Turkish authorities announced the arrest of 234 individuals in a major operation targeting criminal drug-trafficking organizations, coordinated with law enforcement agencies from Belgium, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. The operation, which spanned several months, has been hailed as a significant victory in the fight against international drug trafficking.

In a statement on Tuesday, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed that 225 suspects were detained in Turkey, while nine others were arrested abroad. The operation also saw the detention of 10 individuals who had been sought under Interpol red notices for their involvement in serious criminal activities.

Yerlikaya outlined the charges against the detainees, including international drug trafficking, money laundering, homicide, kidnapping, threats, and blackmail. The suspects are accused of being key players in a network responsible for producing and trafficking cocaine, heroin, and other illegal substances.

Coordinated efforts between police in the five countries, as well as support from the European Union’s Europol agency, were instrumental in dismantling the complex organization. Over eight months of investigation allowed authorities to uncover the network’s operations, including its contacts and methods of trafficking.

The operation also resulted in the seizure of hundreds of properties, vehicles, company stakes, and bank accounts—assets valued at approximately 13 billion lira ($341 million).

“This operation has disrupted a major criminal network operating across multiple countries and sent a clear message that we will continue to cooperate internationally to combat organized crime,” Yerlikaya said during a press conference in Ankara.

The coordinated effort has been seen as a significant step in Turkey’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking and organized crime, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in addressing transnational criminal activities.