In a significant move against the FETÖ terrorist organization, Turkish security forces have detained 74 individuals in a coordinated operation spanning 27 of the country’s 81 provinces. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the arrests, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating the group’s influence.
The crackdown comes on the eighth anniversary of the failed coup attempt attributed to FETÖ, which resulted in the tragic loss of 251 lives and left approximately 2,200 people injured. The timing of the operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Turkish authorities to dismantle the remnants of the organization.
Minister Yerlikaya revealed that the detained suspects were allegedly involved in establishing clandestine structures within key state institutions. The suspects reportedly used a crypto-encrypted messaging app to communicate, aiming to evade detection. Some of those apprehended had existing prison sentences and arrest warrants related to prior investigations into FETÖ activities.
“Operations against FETÖ members and their collaborators will continue with unwavering determination,” Yerlikaya stated. The raids on the suspects’ residences led to the seizure of substantial amounts of cash and numerous digital materials, further implicating them in illegal activities.
In his message marking the coup attempt anniversary, Yerlikaya praised the unity and solidarity demonstrated by the Turkish nation during the 2016 crisis, calling it a “great epic.” He reiterated the government’s dedication to rooting out all elements of the FETÖ organization from Turkish society.
Yerlikaya shared with local media that the Ministry of Interior’s investigations have resulted in the expulsion of over 44,000 individuals from various units within the ministry. Over the past year, 9,738 individuals were detained in 6,025 operations targeting FETÖ members, illustrating the extensive scope of the government’s crackdown.
As a result of these successful operations, a significant portion of FETÖ’s activities has been relocated abroad. “Approximately 16 percent of the fugitive organization members are in the U.S. and about 23 percent are in Germany,” Yerlikaya noted. He added that following the July 15 coup attempt, FETÖ has attempted to finance its domestic activities with revenues acquired from abroad while trying to maintain its structure within Türkiye.
The government’s relentless pursuit of FETÖ operatives reflects its broader strategy to ensure national security and stability. The recent arrests are a testament to the efficacy of these measures and the determination of Turkish authorities to bring those involved in the coup attempt to justice.
The nationwide operation against FETÖ suspects not only highlights the ongoing threat posed by the organization but also reinforces the Turkish government’s resolve to dismantle its network completely. As the country commemorates the victims of the failed coup, these actions serve as a reminder of the continued vigilance required to safeguard the nation’s democratic institutions.
The Interior Minister’s announcement and the details of the operation provide a clear message: the Turkish government remains steadfast in its mission to protect its citizens and preserve the integrity of its state institutions from any form of subversive activity.
