Minister Gürlek announces: 28 suspects apprehended in operation against fan groups in İzmir

Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek announced that 28 suspects were apprehended in an operation targeting two organized crime structures stated to be operating within the "Forza" and "Yalı" fan groups in İzmir.

According to the statement made by Gürlek on his social media account, the investigation was conducted under the coordination of the İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office and by teams from the İzmir Provincial Police Department. In the investigation, which was deepened following the murder of Emircan Övüç with a firearm on September 19, 2025, 8 separate violent acts were identified between the two groups over approximately 8 months.

In the file where a total of 59 organization members were identified, it was reported that 27 of these individuals are currently in prison. While simultaneous operations were carried out at 39 addresses in 4 provinces centered in İzmir, 28 of the 32 active suspects were taken into custody. It was stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the 4 fugitive suspects.

It was noted that weapons, ammunition, narcotic pills, and various criminal items were seized during searches at the addresses. It was reported that organization leaders were also among those detained as part of the operation.

In the same statement, Gürlek also provided information about an operation in Istanbul targeting a theft ring stated to be targeting foreign tourists in tourist areas. In the investigation coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, it was alleged that 32 suspects, mostly foreign nationals, committed thefts at trams, stops, and pedestrian crossings using the "crowding and screening" method.

Emphasizing that the fight against organized crime structures continues, Minister Gürlek shared the message, "We will not allow any criminal organization that threatens the peace of our cities to pass."