Two separate drug operations at Istanbul Airport

The Ministry of Trade's Customs Enforcement teams seized a total of 34 kilos and 400 grams of cocaine hydrochloride in two separate operations conducted at Istanbul Airport.

According to the statement from the Ministry, the operations were carried out within the scope of risk analysis, intelligence efforts, and field inspections. During the searches of the luggage of two passengers deemed suspicious, it was determined that the narcotics were concealed using various methods.

CONCEALED IN SUITCASES AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

In the first operation, a passenger arriving at Istanbul Airport from South America was placed under surveillance as a result of risk analysis. After the passenger's cabin baggage was passed through an X-ray device, it was subjected to a detailed search. The checks revealed 13 kilos and 480 grams of liquid cocaine hydrochloride hidden in the suitcases.

In the second operation, a passenger arriving from Africa was evaluated as suspicious. During the search of the passenger's suitcases, 20 kilos and 920 grams of cocaine hydrochloride were seized, hidden in shower gel bottles and a petroleum jelly container.

Thus, the smuggling of a total of 34 kilos and 400 grams of narcotics into Turkey was prevented in two separate operations. It was reported that investigations into the incidents are ongoing under the Gaziosmanpaşa Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.

News Source: 12punto