Operations launched after death toll from bootleg alcohol rises

ISTANBUL

The anti-smuggling and organized crimes units of the police force have launched operations in Turkey’s 81 provinces after at least 24 people have died from bootleg alcohol.

“Operation Poison” has been launched against criminals that are preparing to release illegal/smuggled alcohol to the market ahead of New Year’s Eve,” the Interior Ministry said in a statement on Dec. 15.

Security forces raided and searched more than 300 locations across the country, confiscating over 31,000 liters of bootleg and smuggled alcohol, the ministry said, noting that detention warrants were issued for at least 60 suspects.

Police units targeted facilities where bootleg and illegal alcohol was being produced and delivered, the statement added.

Over the past couple of days, at least 13 people have lost their lives from bootleg alcohol.

In the southern province of Kahramanmaraş, four people died after consuming illegally produced alcohol. Fatalities were also reported in other parts of the country, including the provinces of Yalova, Sivas, Antalya, Erzincan and Istanbul.