Over 40 undocumented migrants held in NW Turkey
KIRKLARELİ – Anadolu Agency
At least 44 undocumented migrants have been taken in by the authorities in recent days in northwestern Turkey, security sources stated on June 18.
In Kırklareli province, gendarmerie forces seized undocumented foreign nationals in the districts of Demirköy, Kofcaz and Babaeski, said sources speaking on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media.
Undocumented migrants of Iraqi, Afghan, Pakistani and Syrian origin were near the border and trying to illegally cross into Europe, the sources added.
After they were picked up by the authorities they were referred to the local migration authorities.
Meanwhile, two suspects were seized for allegedly organizing the illegal border crossing.
Turkey has been the main route for refugees trying to cross into Europe, especially since 2011, the start of Syria’s civil war.
Among the migrants held in 2017 in Turkey, the majority came from Pakistan - around 15,000 - followed by Afghans at around 12,000. The number of Syrians totaled 10,000.
