Istanbul drug bust nets seven suspects, large narcotics haul

Istanbul police have carried out significant anti-drug operations across multiple districts, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of a large cache of illegal substances. The operations targeted individuals involved in the production and distribution of drugs, particularly "street dealers."

The Turkish National Police's Narcotics Crimes Branch conducted coordinated raids in the Şişli, Esenler, and Esenyurt districts over the past two days. These operations focused on four residences and one vehicle identified as locations for drug-related activities.

During the raids, authorities apprehended seven individuals, one of whom is under 18 years old. The search of the suspects' premises and vehicles yielded substantial quantities of narcotics. Police confiscated 116.39 kilograms of methamphetamine, 34.8 kilograms of skunk (a type of cannabis), 249 units of synthetic medication, 10 grams of opium gum, and 39.7 kilograms of chemical additives used in drug manufacturing.

In addition to the drugs and chemicals, officers also seized various materials and apparatus used for producing narcotics, along with eight precision scales, two unlicensed handguns, 34 rounds of ammunition, and 3,200 Turkish Lira in cash. The seven suspects were taken to the police headquarters for questioning. Authorities stated that two of the suspects will be referred to judicial bodies, while investigations into the remaining five are ongoing.