In a sweeping counter-terrorism operation codenamed ‘GÜRZ-8’, Turkish authorities have arrested 222 suspects across 36 provinces, dealing a significant blow to a separatist terrorist organization. The operation, announced by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya on August 17, 2024, was a coordinated effort by the General Directorate of Security’s Counter-Terrorism Department (TEM) and Intelligence Department.According to Minister Yerlikaya, the suspects were involved in various activities supporting the terrorist organization, including ‘participating in the organization’s rural units, spreading propaganda on social media, providing financial support to terrorism, and collaborating with the organization’. The operation also uncovered links to the organization’s European structure.The raids resulted in the seizure of substantial evidence, including unlicensed firearms, hunting rifles, large amounts of cash in both Turkish and foreign currencies, digital materials, and organizational documents. Minister Yerlikaya emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, stating, ‘We will not show any mercy to terrorists. We will continue our fight until the last terrorist is neutralized for the sake of our nation’s peace, unity, and solidarity’.In a separate but related development, a targeted operation in Mersin province led to the arrest of 7 individuals suspected of involvement with the PKK/KCK terrorist organization. This operation, supported by drone surveillance, also resulted in the seizure of unlicensed hunting rifles and organizational materials.These operations underscore the Turkish government’s intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating within and beyond its borders. As Minister Yerlikaya concluded, ‘Our struggle will continue with determination to ensure the peace, unity, and solidarity of our nation’.
Key points
- Turkish authorities arrested 222 suspects in a large-scale counter-terrorism operation across 36 provinces.
- The operation targeted a separatist terrorist organization involved in various illegal activities.
- Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya emphasized the government’s commitment to combating terrorism.
- A separate operation in Mersin led to the arrest of 7 individuals linked to the PKK/KCK terrorist organization.
