Over 330 undocumented migrants held in a week in Turkey

ANKARA – Anadolu Agency

At least 332 undocumented migrants were held across Turkey over the last week, the country’s Interior Ministry said on Nov. 11.

In a statement, the ministry said the Turkish Coast Guard held a total of 332 undocumented migrants during operations conducted on Nov. 2-9.

Turkey has been the main route for irregular migrants trying to cross into Europe, especially since 2011 when the Syrian civil war began.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Coast Guard also rescued 177 migrants in Anamur and Erdemli districts of the southern Mersin province, Ayvalık district of the northwestern Balıkesir province, Foça and Seferihisar districts of the western Izmir province and Ayvacık district of northwestern Canakkale province.

The statement added that three human smugglers were also arrested.