Turkish Police Arrest 115 ISIS Suspects to Prevent Holiday Attacks

UPDATE: In a swift operation on December 25, Turkish police detained 115 individuals believed to be plotting terror attacks during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The Istanbul Provincial Police Department, acting on directives from the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, executed 124 raids across the city, targeting 137 suspected members of ISIS.

The operation marks a significant effort to thwart potential violence aimed specifically at non-Muslim communities during the festive season. Authorities reported that the suspects were in contact with regions known for terrorist activities, raising alarms ahead of the holiday gatherings.

“The suspects were planning attacks and issuing calls for action targeting our country,” stated the prosecutor’s office in a press release, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

During the extensive raids, police seized pistols, cartridges, and numerous documents linked to the terrorist organization, reflecting the serious threat posed by these individuals.

This crackdown follows the recent capture of a senior ISIS operative by the Turkish National Intelligence Organization, who is suspected of being dispatched to conduct a suicide attack within Turkey. The intelligence community is closely monitoring ISIS operatives who have recently trained in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region, with Turkish authorities actively investigating their activities.

Turkey’s strategic position, sharing a border with Syria where ISIS remains active, prompts ongoing collaboration with international partners, including the United States and European nations, to dismantle remnants of the terrorist group.

As the situation develops, the public remains on high alert, with officials urging vigilance during the holiday season. The arrests highlight Turkey’s commitment to counter-terrorism and ensuring safety for all citizens.

Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to monitor and respond to potential threats.