One suspect killed in clashes during anti-drug operation in Istanbul

ISTANBUL

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One suspect was killed and another one was wounded after clashes erupted with police during an anti-drug operation in Istanbul on Jan. 31, Doğan News Agency has reported.

The operation was carried out by Istanbul police in the Gaziosmanpaşa district at 5:00 a.m.

The clashes erupted after police grew suspicious of a vehicle, which was carrying the suspects. Upon the police’s notice, the two tried to flee the scene but crashed into a police car and later opened fire on the police.  The cars’ tires blew-out after a storm of bullets from both sides. 

The police and suspects exchanged fire in the district’s Karlıtepe neighborhood, while an intense raid began in the area.    

The wounded suspect was taken to hospital for treatment and later gave testimony.

Special forces team were dispatched to the area while police launched an investigation into the incident.

It was revealed by the police that both suspects had a long history of criminal records. 

The killed suspect had 210 criminal offences of robbery while the other one had 23 criminal records over various charges.