Turkey Seizes More Than 31 Kilograms of Methamphetamine in Three Airport Operations
Ankara, Turkey — Turkish customs authorities have intercepted more than 31 kilograms of methamphetamine in three separate operations at Ankara Esenboğa Airport, marking a significant drug-trafficking enforcement action.
According to Turkey’s Ministry of Trade, customs enforcement teams detected suspicious passengers and luggage through risk-analysis procedures at the airport. The inspections resulted in the seizure of a combined 31.62 kilograms of methamphetamine.
In the first operation, officers examining luggage identified 7.9 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed inside nine plastic containers. The discovery was made after X-ray screening raised concerns about the contents of the bags.
A second suspicious suitcase was selected through Turkey’s Advance Passenger Notification risk-analysis system. A detailed search reportedly uncovered another 6.12 kilograms of methamphetamine packed inside seven plastic containers.
The largest seizure came during the third operation. A narcotics detection dog named KABUS reacted to a suitcase in the airport’s baggage area, prompting customs officers to conduct a detailed inspection.
Investigators reportedly discovered 17.6 kilograms of methamphetamine absorbed into 36 pieces of clothing. Authorities seized the suspected narcotics and began legal proceedings connected to the case.
The three interceptions were carried out as part of Turkey’s continuing campaign against international drug trafficking. Officials said the operations were based on risk assessment, passenger information and physical inspections designed to identify suspicious shipments and travellers.
A criminal investigation has been opened under the supervision of the Çubuk Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities have not yet disclosed all details concerning the people suspected of transporting the drugs or where the shipments were ultimately intended to go.
The seizure comes amid broader Turkish law-enforcement efforts to disrupt narcotics networks. Turkey’s narcotics police have also reported large-scale drug seizures in different parts of the country during recent weeks.
Officials said combating drug smuggling remains a major security priority, particularly because of the potential impact of illegal narcotics on public health and young people.
The investigation into the Esenboğa Airport seizures is continuing, and the suspects, if charged, will remain entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a court.
