Turkish interior minister announces major anti-FETÖ operation, 16 detained

Turkish authorities have escalated their campaign against the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ), with Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya declaring the apprehension of 16 individuals alleged to have affiliations with the proscribed organization.

Yerlikaya revealed that security forces carried out 39 coordinated operations across the country over the past week, targeting alleged FETÖ operatives and affiliates. A total of 97 suspects were detained as part of the nationwide effort, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

“Sixteen individuals have been formally arrested following judicial proceedings, while 27 others have been placed under judicial supervision,” Yerlikaya stated, referring to court-imposed control measures such as travel bans or periodic reporting to authorities.

Yerlikaya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to “rooting out all remnants” of the network from public institutions and civil society, emphasizing that law enforcement efforts would continue with “determination and without compromise.”

Following the 2016 Turkish coup attempt, Türkiye launched a widespread crackdown targeting individuals and groups associated with Fethullah Gülen and his movement, FETÖ. This crackdown involved mass detentions, dismissals from public service, and closures of media outlets and organisations linked to the movement.

By Vafa Guliyeva