Istanbul police seize 120 handguns in smuggling bust

Authorities in Istanbul have successfully dismantled an arms smuggling ring, seizing 120 handguns and an equal number of magazines in a targeted operation. The Istanbul Police Department's Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Branch initiated the investigation after receiving intelligence about a substantial weapons shipment destined for the city.

The operation involved a multi-stage approach. Police first stopped a vehicle at the Kurtköy Toll Booths, identifying it as a scout vehicle that was leading the main transport. The two individuals inside this scout vehicle were detained.

Following up on this lead, law enforcement teams tracked the primary vehicle carrying the illicit arms to a gas station in the Pendik district. A swift operation at the scene resulted in the apprehension of the driver, identified as S.E., and the recovery of the 120 handguns and 120 magazines.

The three suspects are currently in police custody, undergoing further investigation. The bust highlights ongoing efforts by Istanbul police to combat organized crime and illegal arms trafficking within the metropolis.