Turkey Scoops 115 Islamic State Operatives in Holiday Terror Bust
Turkey has dealt a crushing blow to extremist networks after security forces rounded up 115 suspected ISIS operatives in a sweeping, nationwide counter-terrorism operation aimed at preventing attacks during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The dramatic arrests followed intelligence reports indicating that ISIS cells were actively plotting terror attacks to exploit the festive season, with prosecutors issuing warrants for 137 suspects linked to the group’s operations across the country.
In a coordinated show of force, Turkish police and security agencies stormed 124 locations simultaneously, dismantling what authorities described as a dangerous terror network poised to strike crowded public spaces. During the raids, officers recovered weapons, ammunition and key organizational documents, further underscoring the seriousness of the threat.
Officials confirmed that while 115 suspects were successfully detained, manhunts are ongoing for 22 others still at large, as security agencies tighten surveillance and intensify operations nationwide.
The latest crackdown comes amid heightened security measures in Turkey, a country that has previously suffered deadly ISIS attacks, including the infamous New Year’s assault on an Istanbul nightclub in 2017. Authorities say the operation was designed as a pre-emptive strike to ensure public safety and deny extremists any opportunity to disrupt holiday celebrations.
Security officials have vowed to maintain relentless pressure on terror networks, warning that Turkey remains on high alert and will respond decisively to any threat against its citizens or residents.
