The Istanbul public prosecutor’s office ordered the arrest of 137 suspected members of the jihadist organization Islamic State. 115 of them were arrested on suspicion of preparing attacks during the New Year holidays.
According to his office, the prosecutor acted “on the basis of intelligence information indicating that the terrorist organization IS was planning attacks during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.” In Turkey, such arrests often occur before the end of the year celebrations.
Doubled surveillance for Christmas
The police carried out searches in 124 apartments and confiscated pistols, ammunition and numerous documents related to ISIS. However, no further information was provided on the status of preparation for the alleged attacks or on the identity or origin of those arrested.
Since the massacre by an Uzbek jihadist with automatic weapons in an Istanbul nightclub in the early hours of New Year’s Eve 2017, which left 39 people dead, Turkish authorities have redoubled their vigilance, particularly during the Christmas season.
ms (afp/efe)
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