Turkey arrests 24 in Belgium-led drug ring, seizes assets worth 1 billion lira
Turkish authorities detained 24 people and confiscated assets valued at about 1 billion lira in a probe of an international drug network allegedly directed from Belgium.
In a crackdown on a transnational drug syndicate allegedly coordinated from Belgium, Turkish officials have detained 24 individuals and seized assets estimated at 1 billion lira. The İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office issued detention orders for 38 suspects, with eleven believed to be abroad, one already incarcerated, and two still being sought. While prosecutors did not specify the type or volume of drugs involved, they confirmed the group's international scope.
Authorities confiscated 87 properties, 18 vehicles, four private boats, stakes in 14 companies, and various bank accounts and other holdings. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek said the operation aims to disrupt both the criminal network and its financial channels, preventing illicit proceeds from entering the legitimate economy. Turkey has become a notable transit hub for cocaine shipments from Latin America to Europe and the Middle East, according to recent reports.
