Turkish Police Detain 282 Suspects Linked to PKK

On February 18, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported the detention of 282 suspects in a series of coordinated nationwide raids targeting alleged links to the PKK terrorist organization. The operations, ongoing for five days, spanned 51 cities, including Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, and Diyarbakır.

Raids Target PKK Propaganda and Recruitment

The detained individuals are accused of spreading PKK propaganda, funding the group, recruiting new members, and participating in street protests. Authorities also seized weapons, including two AK-47 rifles. Some suspects were found to have finalized prison sentences or outstanding arrest warrants, according to Minister Yerlikaya.

New Arrest Warrants for Alleged Terror Ties

In addition, Turkish authorities issued arrest warrants for 60 individuals, including several left-wing figures, suspected of having terror ties. As of the latest update, 52 individuals have been detained in connection with these new warrants, as confirmed by the Istanbul prosecutor’s office.

PKK Recognized as a Terrorist Organization

The PKK is officially recognized as a terrorist group by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.