Türkiye detains 209 suspects in nationwide counterterrorism operation

Turkish authorities have detained 209 suspects during a large-scale counterterrorism operation carried out in the capital Ankara, according to the country’s Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.

The operation was conducted jointly by the General Directorate of Security and the Ankara Provincial Gendarmerie Command as part of coordinated investigative efforts targeting suspected extremist networks, Turkish media reports. 

Courts issued arrest warrants for a total of 241 individuals accused of links to various terrorist and banned organisations, including ISIS and other radical groups.

Law enforcement officials said 209 suspects were detained in simultaneous raids carried out across multiple locations, while operations to apprehend the remaining individuals are continuing.

Turkish authorities said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to prevent terrorist activity and strengthen national security.

By Sabina Mammadli