Istanbul police arrest 18 suspects in sweep targeting shootings, threats

Istanbul police apprehended 18 suspects in a broad operation targeting criminal activities across multiple districts. The arrests followed investigations into incidents occurring between May 8 and May 31 in Sultanbeyli, Üsküdar, Beyoğlu, Güngören, Bahçelievler, Sancaktepe, and Beylikdüzü.

The suspects are linked to a series of crimes, including nine instances of home shootings, one business shooting, two threats, one exploitation case, one attempted murder, and one aggravated assault. During the operation, police confiscated three unlicensed firearms, 59 bullets, two motorcycles believed to have been used in the crimes, two motorcycle helmets, and one bulletproof vest.

Security camera footage capturing some of the suspects committing these offenses was also obtained. Following legal proceedings, a court ordered eight of the suspects to be detained. Three others were placed under judicial control, while two were released.