Nearly 100 irregular migrants held in Turkey

By S. Ahmet Aytac

ANKARA (AA) - At least 97 irregular migrants were held across Turkey, security sources said Wednesday.

In the northwestern Balikesir province, the security units rounded up 28 migrants -- all Afghan nationals -- in Ayvalik district, said a security source, who asked not to be named due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

Separately in the northwestern Kirklareli province, 54 irregular migrants -- including Iraqi, Iranian and Afghan nationals -- were nabbed in Pinarhisar and Kofcaz districts.

Also in Bodrum district of western Mugla province, the coast guards held 15 migrants – including Syrian, Iraqi and Palestinian nationals.

All of the migrants were referred to provincial migration offices.

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