Record amount of drugs seized in customs operations in the first 6 months

Significant results have been achieved in the fight against narcotics attempting to enter Turkey illegally through customs gates. According to the statement made by authorities, a total of 407 operations were carried out in the first six months of 2026, during which 36 tons and 403 kilograms of narcotics were seized. It was stated that the market value of the seized substances is 38.3 billion TL.

In these operations, Customs Enforcement teams played an active role using technical equipment, advanced intelligence infrastructure, and risk-based analysis systems. The statement noted, “The Customs Enforcement Organization has made a serious contribution to our country's border security and the protection of public health thanks to its expert staff and strengthened operational capability. In the fight against smuggling, narco-chemistry teams were established, and analysis and technical examination efforts were further strengthened. The Criminal Laboratory Directorate, which was put into operation in 2020, has made it possible for seized substances to be analyzed quickly and on a scientific basis.”

THE AMOUNT OF DRUGS SEIZED IN THE LAST THREE AND A HALF YEARS HAS INCREASED

The impact of the ongoing fight at customs is also reflected in the amounts seized in recent years. According to the information provided, 11 tons and 976 kilograms of narcotics were seized in 727 operations in 2023, 24 tons and 313 kilograms in 1,362 operations in 2024, and 35 tons and 995 kilograms in 934 operations in 2025. It was emphasized that with the seizures made in the first half of 2026, a total of 108.7 tons of drugs have been seized as a result of 3,430 operations since 2023, and the market value of this amount has reached 119 billion 153 million TL.

Stating that a heavy blow has been dealt to smuggling networks, officials underlined that operations at customs are of great importance for public safety. The statement included the assessment, “The successes achieved in the fight against smuggling are the result of the effective use of our intelligence power and technology-based inspection systems. June 26, International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, once again reveals the importance of a determined stance in this field. Our teams will continue to work and fight tirelessly at our borders to protect our country and our youth.”

News Source: 12punto