Turkish police detain hundreds in nationwide raids targeting online gang recruitment
Turkish authorities arrested 348 suspects in raids across 58 provinces, accusing them of using social media to recruit gunmen and spread gang propaganda.
In a coordinated sweep, Turkish police detained 348 individuals across 58 provinces, alleging they used social-media platforms to recruit gunmen and promote gang activities. According to the Interior Ministry, the suspects operated messaging groups to solicit shooters, advertise services for violent attacks, and disseminate threats and propaganda. Law enforcement seized 42 handguns, 35 rifles, 26 blank-firing pistols, a stick of dynamite, an anti-aircraft round and 2,865 rounds of ammunition.
The raids were carried out by prosecutors together with the anti-smuggling and organized crime department of the Security Directorate General, supported by MİT, police intelligence and cybercrime units. Authorities labeled the networks as “new-generation criminal organizations” that enlist young people online and maintain loose ties among members. This operation builds on a September 14 crackdown that issued detention warrants for 1,008 suspects in 48 provinces over comparable online recruitment and gang propaganda allegations.
Why it matters
The raids highlight Turkey's effort to curb digitally coordinated gang violence and illegal arms trafficking.
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