Turkey: 32 suspects held in anti-drug operations

By Seyhan Kirici, Eren Bozkurt, Cankut Tasdan

BALIKESIR, Turkey (AA) - At least 32 suspects were arrested during anti-drug operations across Turkey on Friday, according to security sources.

In northwestern Balikesir province, 11 suspects were arrested in Burhaniye and Havran provinces on the charges of drug trafficking, said the sources on the condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media.

Security forces also confiscated over 7 kilograms (15 pounds) of marijuana and more than one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of cannabis.

The police are making efforts to nab one more suspect at large.

In southern Adana province, anti-narcotics units seized over 114 kg (251 pounds) of heroin and 342,000 synthetic drug pills hidden inside the tires of two trucks.

One of the drivers was arrested during the operation, the sources said.

Meanwhile, the police also conducted raids in Kecioren district of the capital Ankara to nab drug dealers.

During the raids, 20 suspects were apprehended while small quantities of illegal drugs and an undisclosed amount of money were seized.