The Turkish government has intensified efforts to curb irregular migration this year, with more than 6,300 operations conducted against human trafficking organizations
Ankara, Türkiye – Turkish government have detained 1,644 irregular migrants and 51 human traffickers, including 11 foreign nationals, in a major nationwide crackdown as part of the ongoing “Kalkan-30” operations, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced Monday.
In a statement on social media platform X, Yerlikaya detailed the extensive operation, which was coordinated under the oversight of the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and carried out by the General Directorate of Security, the General Command of Gendarmerie, and the Coast Guard Command. The comprehensive sweep targeted high-risk areas such as abandoned buildings, truck depots, ports, public venues, and transportation hubs across the country.
Authorities also seized 17 vehicles, three boats, eight unlicensed firearms, and various quantities of illegal drugs. Deportation processes for the apprehended migrants have already commenced, according to Yerlikaya.
“Our fight against irregular migration and migrant smuggling continues with determination and resolve for the peace and security of our country,” Yerlikaya affirmed, expressing his appreciation for the efforts of law enforcement, gendarmes, Coast Guard members, and migration administrators.
Türkiye’s government has intensified efforts to curb irregular migration this year, with more than 6,300 operations conducted against human trafficking organizations. Nearly 4,000 smugglers have been arrested as part of this widespread campaign.
Yerlikaya emphasized Türkiye’s strategic significance as a key transit route for migrants aiming to reach Europe and reiterated the government’s focus on tightening border security. The country has implemented stronger legal measures and fostered international cooperation to disrupt human smuggling networks.
“The seamless coordination between law enforcement, migration authorities, and the judiciary has been a cornerstone of our success,” Yerlikaya noted. He shared that ID checks were conducted on 442,778 individuals in critical locations, underscoring the scale of the operation.
Türkiye remains committed to repatriating irregular migrants while dismantling smuggling networks, demonstrating its ongoing dedication to national security and regional stability.
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